Moëze-Oléron nature reserve

It’s a haven of peace for nature. Between mudflats, lagoons and sandbanks, this exceptional area between Rochefort-Brouage and theIle d’Oléron is a veritable paradise for animals and plants. Your 4-star St-Tro’Park campsite on the Ile d’Oléron plunges you right into the heart of a leading international migratory refuge.

A protected area in the heart of the Pertuis Sea

Best known for its “Marennes Oléron” oyster production, the Mer des Pertuis is the arm of the ocean between the west coast of theIle d’Oléron (Saint-Georges, Saint-Pierre, Dolus and Château-d’Oléron) and the Charente estuary. This 6500-hectare marine territory is classified as a National Nature Reserve. In addition, there are almost 500 hectares of marshland and meadows near Brouage. This paradise on land and sea, recognized by birds, is a major stopover on the East-Atlantic migratory route. In perpetual motion, living to the rhythm of the tides, the Moëze-Oléron nature reserve is an observatory for nature lovers.

Floristic and faunistic observations

Are you curious? Wondering what kind of birds you might come across? passerines, curlews, black-tailed godwits, silver plovers, sandpipers, ducks and more. Many scientists observe the evolution of nature. It’s not just birds that are counted or banded for protection, but small animals and fish too! European eel, European otter, amphibian vole and European cistude are all present in large numbers in this biologically rich area. Plants and amphibians are also mapped. These observations enable us to monitor the health of the ecosystems.

Exhibitions and interpretation trails

The Saint-Froult farm in Charente-Maritime features films, models and games to help visitors understand this environment. A permanent interactive exhibition presents the reserve’s management operations. Five interpretation trails, equipped with observatories and platforms, allow visitors to explore the reserve’s different environments: polders, salt marshes, dunes and mudflats. New > Three events in one themed day Family Day

3pm: tour of the nature reserve
5pm: self-guided treasure hunt on the Sablières trail, to discover Linné (1h30)
Lunch break at families’ expense (oyster tasting possible at Montportail or Port-des-Barques)
8:30 pm: “sunset” walk Relaxation day
11am: Barefoot walk on the beach (visit nearby sites: Brouage, Port-des-Barques, Saint-Froult)
5pm: tour of the nature reserve (1h30)
8:30 p.m.: sensory stroll

Adult rate: €17; 6-22 years: €12; free for children under 6. Accessible to all, this nature center has been awarded the “Tourisme et Handicap” label.

Photo “Moëze-Oléron marshes and nature reserve” (Credit: Oléron Mag)