BIRDWATCHING
IN FRANCE

 The Camargue wetlands
the Mediterranean coast

Probably the most well-known place for birdwatching in France. You’ll see herons, egrets and many hundreds of migrating birds.

The Camargue wetlands covers a huge area of over 900 sq. km. Much of which is marshland. And because the River Rhône dumps deposits of mud the wetlands are constantly shifting. It’s this astonishing natural habitat which has seen the Camargue wetlands become such an important place for wild birds.

You’ll see hundreds of birds here. And the Camargue wetlands are one of the few areas in Europe where birders can see greater flamingos. Thousands of migratory birds pass through the wetlands every spring and autumn. Which is why the place is such a magnet for birders.

Baie de Somme wetlands
the mouth of the Somme

One of the most popular spots for birdwatching in France. Head for the Marquenterre Park nature reserve. The 200-hectare site is a stopping point on the migration route for birds journeying between Scandinavia and Mauritania. But whatever the season you're sure to see species you rarely encounter. On the Baie de Somme wetlands you can see over 300 species of birds. These include birds of prey, shorebirds and waders.

There are a dozen observation points in the reserve. Knowledgeable guides man each post. And they’re happy to share their expertise. This makes the Baie de Somme wetlands ideal for experienced or newbie birders. Marquenterre Park has three circuits for birdwatchers to enjoy lasting from 45 minutes to a couple of hours. Planning to go birdwatching in France? The Baie de Somme wetlands are a must-see destination.

Lake der chantecoq
Champagne, eastern France

The Lake Der-Chantecoq is an amazing place. It's the largest artificial lake in Western Europe. Which is quite a thing. It covers 19 square miles so you'll understand how impressive the lake is.

The lake was man-mad in the 1970s as part of a plan to stop flooding in Paris. Which is a laudable aim though the inhabitants of the three villages bulldozed to make way for the lake may disagree.

Nevertheless, the plan worked and the lake has become something of a water sports centre. But it's also one of the best places for birdwatching in France. Especially if you enjoy the sight of birds massing. Thousands of cranes stop at the lake during their spring and autumn migrations. But you may also see the great egret, loons and even a white-tailed eagle.

Lac de Grandlieu Nature Reserve
south of Nantes (Pays de la Loire)

With one of the largest lakes in Europe the Lac de Grandlieu Nature Reserve is second only to the Camargue. At least in terms of numbers of species that birders will see. There’s only limited access to the lake. And it isn't the easiest place in the world to get to either. But if you do visit, you'll be well rewarded.

You’ll see storks, greylag geese and herons. But locals estimate almost 300 species visit the lake. One feature birders will especially enjoy is the mobile observatory. It’s the perfect platform to view the wildlife around the Lac de Grandlieu.

Tarn Gorge
Aveyron / Lozere 

The Tarn Gorge (Gorges du Tarn) is a spectacular valley in the south of France. It's one of the deepest gorges in Europe and was one of the very first tourist routes in France. It enjoyed a boost in popularity in 2015 when the Tour de France raced its entire length. Millions of TV viewers enjoyed panoramic views of the Tarn Gorge thanks to the helicopters following the race.

But it’s the stunning variety of birds of prey which attracts birders to the Tarn Gorge. Cast your eyes upwards and you’ll see vultures and eagles sweeping along on the thermals. Golden eagles, owls and ravens call the Tarn Gorge their home. As do a large population of griffon vultures.

Briere Regional Park
southeast of Tours

This is an incredible place. One of France's national parks, Briere is a huge area with hundreds of small lakes and ponds which creates a natural habitat for an abundance of wildlife. Around 150 breeding species of birds call the park their home. Seeing them in their natural habitat is easy.

There are several discovery trails throughout the park. There are also plenty of observatories at Chérine, Foucault and other areas of the park. Brenne Regional Park covers over 160 square miles and is a paradise for all nature lovers not just birdwatchers.

Briere is one of our top ten places to visit in France.

Teich Bird Reserve
Arcachon, southwest of Bordeaux

If you're near Bordeaux the Teich Bird Reserve is well worth the visit. At just over 100 hectares it isn't huge but it’s a place all the family will enjoy. Woods, waterways and saltmarsh make up the reserve. It's a habitat that encourages wildlife. You’ll see over 300 species of birds along with nearly 100 breeding residents.

A 3.7-mile (6km) path circles the reserve. The path is in very good condition and almost pan flat. You'll have no trouble walking round. If you do have limited mobility there is a shorter path which avoids all rises and steps. On the trail there's 20 or so strategically placed hides for birders and nature lovers to observe from. Along the birds you can expect to see are many varieties of ducks and geese along with more exotic species such as the white stork.

If you're birdwatching in France the Teich Bird Reserve should definitely be on your list of sites to visit.