LES PRÉS DU BAUGÉ
MARSEILLAN
Presentation
Located halfway between Mèze and Marseillan, the Prés du Baugé form a 52-hectare green valley stretching inland for just over a kilometer from the shores of the Thau lagoon. This exceptional wetland, protected and managed by the Conservatoire du Littoral, is a true natural gem where wildlife and respectful human activities coexist in harmony.
The site features a bocage landscape that is rare in the Mediterranean plain, characterized by lush meadows criss-crossed by a network of canals and bordered by ash hedges. This mosaic of natural environments contrasts sharply with the surrounding wine-growing landscape, offering visitors an exceptional bucolic setting.
The richness of the site lies in the diversity of its habitats, created by the gradual mixing of the fresh waters of the Mayroual stream and the salt waters of the Thau lagoon. On the inland side, there are lush green meadows and reedbeds; towards the lagoon, the landscape changes to salt meadows dotted with tamarisk trees, creating a fascinating natural gradient.
The Prés du Baugé is home to some remarkable wildlife, including the largest heronry in the Hérault department. Birdwatchers will be able to spot numerous species of wetland birds, as well as colorful butterflies such as the magnificent orange-winged Diana. The site is also home to six species of bat, which find refuge in the old hedgerow trees.
The site's history bears witness to its importance: former salt marshes, rice paddies in the early 20th century, then a protected nature reserve since 1982. Today, summer grazing with horses maintains this authentic bocage landscape, while preserving the site's ecological balance.
During your visit, remember to preserve the beauty of this exceptional site by respecting the flora and fauna, as well as the tranquillity of the area and other visitors who also come to enjoy this unspoilt nature.
The site features a bocage landscape that is rare in the Mediterranean plain, characterized by lush meadows criss-crossed by a network of canals and bordered by ash hedges. This mosaic of natural environments contrasts sharply with the surrounding wine-growing landscape, offering visitors an exceptional bucolic setting.
The richness of the site lies in the diversity of its habitats, created by the gradual mixing of the fresh waters of the Mayroual stream and the salt waters of the Thau lagoon. On the inland side, there are lush green meadows and reedbeds; towards the lagoon, the landscape changes to salt meadows dotted with tamarisk trees, creating a fascinating natural gradient.
The Prés du Baugé is home to some remarkable wildlife, including the largest heronry in the Hérault department. Birdwatchers will be able to spot numerous species of wetland birds, as well as colorful butterflies such as the magnificent orange-winged Diana. The site is also home to six species of bat, which find refuge in the old hedgerow trees.
The site's history bears witness to its importance: former salt marshes, rice paddies in the early 20th century, then a protected nature reserve since 1982. Today, summer grazing with horses maintains this authentic bocage landscape, while preserving the site's ecological balance.
During your visit, remember to preserve the beauty of this exceptional site by respecting the flora and fauna, as well as the tranquillity of the area and other visitors who also come to enjoy this unspoilt nature.
Equipment & Services
- Equipment :
- Coastal natural areas
Contact
LES PRÉS DU BAUGÉ
Les prés du Baugé
34340
MARSEILLAN
Destination
LES PRÉS DU BAUGÉ
Les prés du Baugé
34340
MARSEILLAN
GPS coordinates
Latitude : 43.3572985
Longitude : 3.5256200