Viewing point at the Bagnas Nature Reserve.
|
Bagnas: Discovering birds – photos
|
With its mix of marshes, ponds, reed beds and farmland, it is the ideal place to reconnect with Mother Nature, but above all to observe more than 200 species of birds, 16 species of reptiles, 9 species of amphibians, 30 species of mammals, 25 species of fish and 418 species of insects. It’s best to be well-equipped (binoculars, walking boots, etc.) and a keen observer if you’re hoping to spot them across these 561 hectares, designated a National Nature Reserve and a Natura 2000 site.
Birdwatching outing with Adena, the Bagnas Nature Reserve. View of Agde and Mont Saint-Loup
|
Bagnas Reserve Observatory
|
Fortunately for us, there are several spots and trails offering free access where you can watch the ballet of herons, ducks and birds of prey in the sky, or the antics of stilts, flamingos and terns amongst the slender reeds that now cover this former delta of the Hérault. So, put on your walking shoes and set off to explore the Bagnas nature reserve via:
- The Canal du Midi (moderate difficulty), whose construction in its day softened the waters of the reserve and created this natural paradise.
- Mont Saint-Loup (moderate difficulty), from where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the reserve, as well as the Thau lagoon and Cap d’Agde.
- The Onglous lighthouse (easy) where you’ll witness the strange spectacle of the waters of the Canal du Midi mingling with those of the Thau lagoon.
- The Mireval estate (easy level), where vineyards and meadows enhance the landscape of the sansouïres that make up the Bagnas nature reserve.
Bagnas, nature reserve, pond, reed beds, landscape, viewpoint, hut, setting, Sète in the distance, horizon, water, vegetation, nature, outdoors, horizontal
|
If you’d rather keep things low-key and simply stop off on your way, you can also enjoy the reserve from the viewing area on the way to Marseillan-Ville. Just past the Canal du Midi, you’ll be treated to an unobstructed view of the Bagnas lagoon and the birds that inhabit it. It’s best to bring a pair of binoculars.
Please note that access to the reserve is restricted due to the significant challenges involved in preserving animal and plant species and maintaining the integrity of the site’s natural habitats. You can easily discover the reserve’s treasures via the freely accessible paths mentioned above, as well as on a guided tour with a guide from the Reserve Centre.
You’ll even have the chance toexplore it based on a theme of your choice: the world of insects, sunset at Bagnas, Bagnas for children, plants to learn about and recognise, wading in the lagoon, discovering the birds of Bagnas, the riches of Bagnas…
Birdwatching outing with Adena, Bagnas Nature Reserve. Viewing area, binoculars
|
