The Valleys of the Leyre A natural gem to explore in Gironde

The valleys of the Leyre

It is called "Leyre" in the Landes department, and "Eyre" in Gironde. This coastal river, also nicknamed "Little Amazon," flows through the heart of the Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park, all the way to the Arcachon basin. This waterway is navigable by canoe or kayak for nearly 90 km. This is a great place for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to discover this fragile natural environment in complete privacy...

A natural gem to be preserved...

The Petite Leyre and the Grande Leyre (a section labeled Rivière Sauvage) join at the Hourc d'Eyre (water fork in Gascon), in the commune of Moustey in the Landes, to form a single whole. The amber-colored Leyre, under its tunnel of protective hardwoods called a "gallery forest", gradually widens to form a generous delta, a mosaic of salt meadows and exceptional natural environments, in the Arcachon basin. Moreover, the landscapes of what is called the "Valleys of the Leyre" are classified as a " Registered Site ", and the numerous environments and species present are of strong heritage interest (notably classified under Natura 2000 and/or RAMSAR).

So, on the banks of the gallery forest, observe the Royal Fern, a primitive fern with a bright green color. Also look out for the turquoise blue of the Calopteryx damselflies or the swift Kingfisher. Along the water, the aquatic plants unfold to the rhythm of the sand movements and the gaps in the light. They probably hide a few glass eels or young Aquitaine pike. On a branch, sunbathing, you might be lucky enough to glimpse the European Pond Turtle and on the sand, the tracks of the discreet European Otter.

Canoeing on the Leyre

There are several routes for canoeing down the Leyre, for half a day, a day or even several days (up to 5) on a tour. On the 90km of navigable waterway, 26 embarkation and disembarkation points have been set up and several nautical stops punctuate the length. Many service providers and nautical bases offer rentals, for free descent or descent accompanied by river guides. This is particularly the case for nautical bases marked Valeurs Parc naturel.

Whichever formula you choose, we always advise you to consult a professional to find out about the state of the waterway, navigation conditions, etc.

Best practices

In such a natural treasure, your discovery must remain discreet and peaceful. Breathe, enjoy... Take only your trash with you and leave no trace of your visit, on the water, on the banks, or on the property owners' property.

• By canoe: find out about the condition of the course, the weather, the water level and make sure you are in good physical condition and well equipped.
• Respect the fauna, flora, other users/owners and report any incident or pollution to the Park.
• Leave no trace of your visit (not even a GPX track on the internet)

The following are prohibited :

• Motor navigation
• Night navigation
• Fire and wild camping in the valley
• The taking of protected species