Lilleau des Niges nature reserve

A national nature reserve at Les Portes en Ré

The Ile de Ré is located on a major bird migration route between Africa and the Arctic. Its natural areas are therefore particularly valuable, as they are likely to be home to a large number of bird species. At the tip of the island, in the heart of the Fier d'Ars marshes and mudflats, the Lilleau des Niges reserve was created in 1980 with the aim of preserving this biodiversity. Managed by the Ligue de Protection des Oiseaux (LPO), it covers almost 120 hectares in the commune of Portes-en-Ré, a former port long dedicated to the maritime salt trade. The Fier marshes are home to large colonies of northern birds: since the reserve was created, ornithologists have observed 300 different species, equivalent to half the species found in Europe. The nesting season is an opportunity to observe large colonies of waterfowl. The reserve is also an important wintering site, ranked among the 10 most important in France. In spring and autumn, the reserve welcomes a wide variety of migrating birds, stopping off to rest and feed.

A walk in a natural paradise in the heart of the marshes

Make a day of discovering the Lilleau des Niges reserve part of your camping vacation program on the Ile de Ré: a true nature paradise, the reserve is a rejuvenating destination that can be explored in a variety of ways: on hikes, through guided tours, on family outings on stroller-accessible circuits, or even by bike. The Maison du Fier museum, set up in a former salt shed after the salt marshes were abandoned, is dedicated to understanding and discovering the island's natural heritage and its flora and fauna. All around, foot and bike paths invite you to wander through the heart of these unspoilt wetlands, full of surprises. The vast, labyrinthine Fier d'Ars marshes offer ideal conditions for birdwatching. Nature outings are organized by the Maison de la Réserve Naturelle, with a focus on birdwatching and the discovery of shellfish at low tide. The " récrés nature " events are dedicated to children, allowing them to explore the reserve's natural riches through games, workshops, puzzles and artistic activities.

Useful information for your visit to the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve

The reserve's surroundings are freely accessible at no charge. The Maison du Fier is open every morning and afternoon from early July to early October, except on Saturday mornings, every afternoon during the All Saints' Day holidays, and every day (with a lunch break) except Saturday and Sunday mornings in April, May, and June. There is a charge to visit the Reserve's visitor center, with full price tickets costing €5 and reduced price tickets costing €4. Nature outings, for bird or crustacean watching, last 2.5 hours. The price is fixed regardless of the theme, at €10 for full price tickets and €6 for reduced price tickets. Walks with the LPO (League for the Protection of Birds) are also available. Audio guides are available at the Reserve reception for a semi-guided tour. Binoculars are also available for hire: we highly recommend them for bird watching! Alternatively, you will also find observation points set up by the LPO along the trails, equipped with telescopes. The Lilleau des Niges nature reserve is located 25 minutes by car and 1 hour by bike from the Ile de Ré Slow Village campsite. Book your stay on the island and spend a day birdwatching in the former salt marshes!

More information on the Ile de Ré tourist office website.