Binoculars and rucksack: I’m birdwatching in the Thau Archipelago

In the Thau Archipelago, the mild autumn and winter weather is perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. The ideal spot? Marseillan, within the Bagnas Nature Reserve.

Updated on 15 June 2026

The Bagnas Nature Reserve

Tucked away between Marseillan and Cap d’Agde, the Bagnas Nature Reserve covers no less than 561 hectares and offers a wide range of walks. The promise of wonderful nature getaways, during which you can, amongst other things, escape along the Canal du Midi, to Mont Saint-Loup (an Agathois volcano), near the Onglous lighthouse, at the Maraval estate (wine estate) or even at the observation point on the main road.

During your walk, simply look up to spot the 250 species of birds flying over the reserve. Or perhaps you’d prefer to join one of the guided tours offered by the Maison de la Nature.

I’m discovering it!

Self-guided tour

Due to the presence of numerous animal and plant species and the importance of respecting them and preserving their natural habitat, access to the reserve is prohibited except during guided tours.
However, it is possible to use certain paths that cross the reserve: the Maraval road and the southern bank of the Canal du Midi. These paths run through the site and are therefore only accessible to pedestrians and cyclists.
Don’t have time for a visit? You can also get a first glimpse of the site from the observation area by the pond, on the side of the road between Marseillan-Plage and Marseillan-Ville. This spot, accessible by car, offers a glimpse of the reserve and the chance to watch birds in the distance. Don’t forget your binoculars!

Other paths outside the reserve are also freely accessible, even with your four-legged friend: Mont Saint-Loup, Agde’s famous volcano, and the edge of the Thau lagoon, near the Onglous lighthouse, where you can easily spot, for example, flamingos, white spoonbills, egrets…

Public footpaths

Events for the general public

All year round, the team at ADENA, the conservation organisation that manages the Bagnas Reserve, offers a programme of outings on a variety of themes within the reserve and its surroundings – giving you the chance to become an adventurer for a day in complete safety!

Equipped with binoculars and spotting scopes, and accompanied by a guide, young and old alike can admire the wildlife (including the many birds), flora and landscapes of Bagnas. These activities will also help you understand the challenges involved in managing and preserving the reserve, so you can learn whilst having fun!
The themes and content of these activities (suitable for all), as well as the locations of the outings, vary according to the seasons. Please feel free to check the programme of activities on the reserve’s website.

All events

Practical information

To ensure the quality of the guided tour and the observation experience, the number of participants per tour is limited; it is therefore essential to book in advance. You will be informed of the meeting point when you register.