Fly to the Teich bird sanctuary!

The Arcachon Basin is a veritable Eden for biodiversity, and the Teich ornithological reserve is its jewel! The reserve allows the public to observe birds and other living creatures without disturbing their comfort zone. It is located in the Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park, west of Bordeaux. This eco-tourism aims to promote a close relationship between nature and the public, while remaining benevolent and respectful of the environment. Spread over 120 hectares, the site includes several types of trails and has been home to over 300 species and subspecies for many years, 90 of which nest on site. It's a must-see for families and friends alike.

Horloge du grand cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo, dans la réserve ornithologique de Teich, à côté de la baie d'Arcachon.

- © Israel Hervas Bengochea / Shutterstock

History of the Le Teich reserve

Before it was opened to the public in 1972, regional researchers realised that the Arcachon basin was well suited to hosting birds, and the project was launched. The municipality became responsible for the project, as did the Landes de Gascogne Park, where the reserve is located.

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Vue sur la réserve ornithologique de Teich, à côté de la baie d'Arcachon.

- © Israel Hervas Bengochea / Shutterstock

Why go there

For nature lovers, there's nothing more enjoyable than strolling through a nature reserve surrounded by animal and plant species. The Teich nature reserve has three trails with observation huts, some of which are elevated so you can watch the various migratory, sedentary and wintering birds from above. Some species are endangered, making it an ideal nesting site. Seagulls, Little Gravelots, White Storks, Ashy Herons and many others call the site home. Migratory birds spend the winter in the shelter of the reserve, travelling only short distances to feed. Information panels are located throughout your walk to help you understand the world you are visiting and raise your awareness of nature.

Un cormoran noir sur un piquet avec ses ailes réparties dans la réserve ornithologique de Teich, dans le bassin d'Arcachon.

- © Marie33 / Shutterstock

The site is visited via a short trail that will allow you to discover the whole nature reserve and its surroundings from every angle.

🕑 In the space of three hours, or even four if you take your time, you'll have covered the whole park. Some routes have been adapted for people with reduced mobility, and shortcuts have been designed in particular for small children or people who have difficulty getting around.

From the top of the observatories, it's not just the birds you can admire, but also the sublime landscapes.

Canard dans la réserve ornithologique de Teich située dans le bassin de l'Arcachon.

- © JAN KASZUBA / Shutterstock

The reserve is constantly monitored to ensure that visitors behave properly, and the species are looked after with the utmost care. No matter how many species there are, cohabitation is the watchword on the site: the seagull, robin and grey heron all live together in perfect harmony. After all, they are neighbours, and their nests are often very close together.

For those who wish, guided tours are organised in the mornings during school holidays and in the evenings during the summer holidays. Lasting two to three hours, the guide will share his or her knowledge of bird behaviour. Visits are also organised for schools, so that pupils become aware of the importance of the environment from an early age.

Teich ornithological park, Gironde, France.

- © vouvraysan / Shutterstock

How do I get there?

🚌 Transport seems to be the most suitable way of getting to the Le Teich reserve.

🚈 Once you arrive at Bordeaux Saint-Jean station, a TER will take you to Le Teich station in 45 minutes. Then it's just a 15-minute walk to the reserve.

🚗 After a 1-hour drive, you'll have several places to park when you get there. The commune of Le Teich has plenty of free parking spaces, such as at the station, behind the town hall and in the area around the tourist office.

Le parc ornithologique de Teich, Gironde, France.

- © Marie33 / Shutterstock

Where to eat?

🍴 Just 10 minutes from the reserve, the L'amour fou restaurant welcomes you to enjoy 100% home-cooked dishes made with fresh seasonal produce. On a wooden terrace surrounded by plants, stay in a natural universe in addition to a warm welcome.

⏰ The restaurant is open every day except Sunday. Thursday to Monday, noon to 3pm and 7pm to 10pm. Tuesday to Wednesday from noon to 3pm.

🍪For those with a sweet tooth, Les Palets d'Arcachon offers sweet and savoury biscuits to share or enjoy on their own.

Teich ornithological park, Gironde, France.

- © E. Cowez / Shutterstock

Where to stay?

⭐ For a getaway to the Le Teich bird sanctuary, we suggest staying at the residence les rives marines, which is 250 metres away. The establishment features a heated outdoor swimming pool. The hut-style accommodation features a terrace with a small garden for enjoying quiet moments in the sun.

Madame Vacances Les Rives Marines Arcachon
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Practical information

👛 Admission to the bird sanctuary costs €9.80 for adults and between €7 and €8.80 for concessions.

👉 In order to respect the environment and the species that live on the site, it is strictly forbidden to bring a dog, and bicycles are not allowed either.

by Jude JONES
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