The Marais des Bris: a little-known marsh on the south of the Ile d’Oléron
In Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, the Marais des Bris offers an immersive walk between lagoons, salt meadows and reed beds. Enjoy this haven of peace in Oleron while it’s still undiscovered!
An original natural site to discover on the Ile d’Oléron
Located on the Atlantic coast, the Marais des Bris has been classified as a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) since 1977. This 37-hectare site, owned by the Conseil Départemental de la Charente-Maritime, is managed by the commune of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains.
Formerly agricultural land conquered from the sea in the 19th century, the Marais des Bris is now renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. The diversity of natural environments (salt and freshwater marshes, reedbeds, wet meadows, deciduous woods) has led to the development of a rich and diverse flora and fauna.
A walk among birds and orchids
The Marais des Bris, a link between sea and forest, is a precious reservoir of biodiversity. Hundreds of birds, including grey herons, make their home in this coastal marsh, rich in food and natural shelter. It is also a migration and breeding site for many species, including the Red-winged Warbler, the Cisticola, the Little Egret and various waders.
Not just birds… This wildlife sanctuary is also home to nine species of orchid, two of which are rare and protected at European level. There are also a number of edible and medicinal plants, including samphire, marsh rose, hawthorn and marshmallow.
To discover on foot or by bike
To make the most of the site, there are several hiking trails, a sports trail and a children’s playground for the whole family to enjoy. Cycling enthusiasts will also be delighted. Throughout the year, events, nature outings, workshops and guided tours enable visitors to discover the marsh’s flora and fauna from a whole new angle.
Don’t miss a stop on the Pacaud dike, which separates the marsh from the ocean. From here, you can admire a magnificent panorama of the town of Marennes and its bell tower, the Seudre bridge, Ronce-les-bains, the Coubre forest and the Maumusson inlet.
Practical info
– Address: 18 rue Saint-André des Bris, 17370 Saint-Trojan-les-Bains (just 5 minutes from our campsite on the Ile d’Oléron).
– Free access all year round.
– Guided tours: please register with the Saint-Trojan-les-Bains Tourist Office on 05 46 76 00 86.
photo@James Young/Pixabay
