A preserved setting located in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, the Terres d'Oiseaux ornithological park is a sanctuary where nature flourishes and reveals itself in all its splendor. This unique reserve welcomes nature lovers, ornithology enthusiasts and visitors in search of serenity all year round.
120 hectares of raw nature
Meeting the Fauna and Flora typical of wetlands
Terres d'Oiseaux is distinguished by its diverse ecosystem and its biological richness.
You will discover a myriad of birds (migratory and resident) which make this reserve an exceptional place for ornithological observation.
For millennia, the Atlantic coast and the Gironde estuary have been migration routes used by a large number of species. With its 120 hectares of preserved nature, Terres d'Oiseaux is one of the privileged sites which welcome these long-distance travelers.
Its 10 kilometers of trails shaped by man and perfectly integrated into the environment take you through varied landscapes in the heart of these marshes: lakes, ponds, wet meadows and reed beds. Throughout your journey you will discover panels providing fascinating information on the fauna, flora and local history. Current species identification booklets are also given to you before entering the site.
The panoramic tower, which offers a breathtaking view of the different areas of the park, is located on an area of 4 hectares accessible free of charge.
Posted in the paid part of the park, 13 other observatories, some of which are equipped with fixed telescopes, line the trails of the reserve. At the start of the journey, you will meet a guide who will answer all your questions, and teach you where to look and how to observe the tumultuous and sometimes almost imperceptible life that is playing out before your eyes.
Honestly, is bird watching that exciting?
Well, yeah ! The richness of this sanctuary is that it takes you to discover an immense biodiversity (not just birds) that you would never have suspected. It’s a great lesson in humility!
And then Terres d’Oiseaux is not ONLY that. The rustling of the leaves, the waves drawn on the water as a bird passes by, the tranquility and calm that reign here are all arguments for exploring this wild world without further delay. We learn to observe, to contemplate, to breathe, to disconnect and to become one with our environment.
Everyone has their own favorite route!
For a first overview of the site, to enjoy a shaded route, for a gentle stroll, for visitors in a hurry or those who have time, for those who cannot walk long distances or for families and young children... You will undoubtedly find what you are looking for on one of the three trails that line the site!
A Refuge for Biodiversity
Terres d'Oiseaux is much more than a nature reserve, it is a commitment to the preservation of biodiversity! Our team works tirelessly to restore and protect natural habitats and thus ensure the survival of emblematic species and the sustainability of this ecosystem.
A life-size natural science course.
The Terres d'Oiseaux park also welcomes school groups and offers children an immersive educational experience in the heart of nature. Our passionate guides are there to introduce young people to all the biodiversity that develops in these marshes: fauna and flora, local and migratory species, etc. They are also there to raise awareness and educate young people about the protection and respect of these ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions to prepare your visit!
When is the park open?
Open all year round, Terres d’Oiseaux park welcomes all visitors 330 days a year!
What species can we observe?
White stork, kingfisher, marsh harrier... difficult to list all the observable species as there are so many. Plus, each season has its show! The periods of migration, reproduction and hatching of the young influence the species that you will be able to observe. It is also not uncommon to come across a deer, a hare, a rabbit, or a deer!
How should I dress?
We recommend wearing breathable materials, neutral colors to blend in with the landscape and comfortable, waterproof shoes!
How do I equip myself?
A backpack, a bottle of water, sunglasses if the weather is nice and mosquito repellent lotion from June to September, and off you go! To ensure you don't miss any of the spectacle, we recommend that you bring your own pair of binoculars or rent one for €2 at the park entrance.
What if I don't know about birds?
No problem ! Even if ornithology enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of species observed, the park is also aimed at novices! This is also the whole reason for Terres d'Oiseaux: to introduce everyone to the art of observation and contemplation, to show the full extent of the biodiversity that evolves in the park and raise public awareness about the protection of this natural heritage!
Do you have to be a good walker to visit Terres d’Oiseaux?
The trails are accessible to walkers of all levels. You can choose, from the 3 routes offered, the one that best suits your walking abilities. Need to take a break ? Benches line the routes.
Can we have a picnic?
No picnic table or trash can in the paid part of the park. You can eat on site, but as here we leave nature as we found it, we put our waste in our bag OR we take our waste with us! For those who wish to maintain all the necessary comfort during their meal break, you can stop at the Table de Marainaud restaurant, located at the entrance to the site, to taste seasonal and local dishes.
What can you do at Terres d’Oiseaux?
In addition to free tours, around a hundred nature activities are offered throughout the year. Twilight outings, night walks and bivouacs in the countryside also allow you to discover the park during unforgettable experiences.
What are the prices to visit the park
€7 for adults, €5 for under 15s and reduced rates! These entry tickets are for a self-guided visit, but you can book support from a nature guide or one of the workshops offered if you wish! The ticket is valid for the day (visitors can come out for lunch at the site's restaurants and return). Access (and exit) to the courses is only through the site reception building.
Activities at Terres d’Oiseaux
