Domain of Certes and Graveyron: nature walk

Audenge
Family Time

Today, let's take advantage of the Arcachon Basin a little differently. Far from the hustle and bustle of the pedestrian streets and the oyster shacks, let's go for a walk in the splendid domain of Certes and Graveyron . This exceptional natural site of almost 530 hectares, offers magnificent landscapes and thousands of opportunities to see animals in their natural environment.

An extraordinary biodiversity center

The area of Certes was initially shaped by Man who wanted to take advantage of the natural wealth of the place. In 1764, for example, the site was developed for the exploitation of salt, but the activity was not very profitable. It was then transformed to meet agricultural and fish farming needs until 1960. Today, the estate is the property of the Conservatoire du littoral which wishes to preserve it in order to protect this incredible biodiversity .

The ideal family Sunday stroll

My little observation post (and tasting!)

During my visit, I was lucky to be able to admire many species of birds among the 145 regularly observed here ! If you are observant, patient and lucky , you may also be able to observe one of the 42 species of mammals ! The numbers are impressive isn't it? Go, one last for the road: this breathtaking living space is home to nearly 400 species of insects! Open your eyes and above all don't forget your binoculars.

There are always birds to see for those who can observe

A stroll in a natural setting

You have two routes to take advantage of this sublime natural space: the largest is on the Certes estate and is approximately 9.3 km (approximately 3:30). The smallest is still 6 km long and it takes around 2 hours to cover it. Don't worry, if it seems too long, you can always turn around on the way!

We locate the places before the ride

3km from the car park, the sublime view of the basin

You will not see the time passing, because the path evolves all the time during the ride . There is always something new to watch. We pass by a wooded path, small bridges, large plains , then around large water reserves ... Keep your eyes open because you are surrounded by many birds of all kinds. The shallow waters favor the influx of algae and shells, to the delight of fish and birds : Herons, cormorants, egrets ... What a joy to be able to observe them in such a sumptuous setting.

A beautiful green setting

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The wind, the smell of the sea and the sails in the distance… I love it!

I think you have to come several times to take full advantage of the place because the flora and fauna vary with the seasons and with the passing of the day!

How to prepare your visit to the Domaine de Certes and Graveyron?

To enter this superb site, you can park in the parking lot at Lanton , at the Château de Certes or further south, at the port of Audenge . By opting for this last possibility you can make a short stop on the Audenge beach. Access to the site is free but I advise you to take a look at the reception hours to have more information on the place and to know the entertainment program.

It is so calm and rejuvenating!

Note that it is also possible to discover this place by canoeing! At the water's edge, this trip will offer you great perspectives and you may be able to get a little closer to the superb birds that live here .

Depending on the schedule you choose for your visit, your experience will be completely different ! I suggest that you favor the morning or the end of the day to better observe the fauna. Unfortunately, it is also the time when mosquitoes are most present ... But in the middle of the day, especially in summer, the sun is strong and there is little shade on the long route.

Nature as far as the eye can see…

Level equipment, I advise you to come with walking shoes or sneakers to stroll serenely on the paths. Don't forget to bring enough water and the trio to protect yourself from the sun : hat, glasses and sunscreen.

I hope I made you want to discover this beautiful area and that you, like me, will be captivated by its calm and beauty . Good walk !