Discover the Contaut Lagoon
Nestled in the heart of the Médoc, the Contaut lagoon is set in a natural setting, close to Lac d’Hourtin, the largest natural lake in France.
The Contaut lagoon is a real treasure, forming an integral part of the Hourtin dunes and marshes nature reserve. This protected area attracts nature lovers and those wishing to take advantage of their vacations to explore little-used paths.
Discover the Contaut lagoon nature reserve from our 4-star Les Ourmes campsite in Gironde. In less than 10 minutes, you can reach the lagoon and enjoy the exceptional setting.
The Contaut lagoon, discover the Nature Reserve
The Contaut lagoon is an integral part of the Hourtin dunes and marshes national nature reserve. Renowned for its ecological richness, the Contaut lagoon is home to a wide variety of species. The interest of this lagoon lies in its unique character: a perfect balance between wetlands, sand dunes and pine forests. This mosaic of landscapes provides shelter for many protected species, including migratory birds that seek refuge here at certain times of the year.
As you stroll through the Contaut lagoon, you can observe rare flora, such as drosera, carnivorous plants that have adapted to this environment.
The nature reserve emphasizes the need to protect these fragile ecosystems, while allowing visitors to discover this unspoiled natural environment in a respectful way. Signposted paths and information panels guide the curious into the heart of the Contaut lagoon.
When and how to visit Contaut Lagoon?
To make the most of the Contaut lagoon, it’s essential to plan your visit in advance. The lagoon is accessible all year round, but the scenery varies according to the season. Spring and autumn are the ideal times to explore Contaut lagoon, especially with migratory birds. Summer, though busier, remains pleasant thanks to the many shaded areas.
Access to the Contaut lagoon is via the Lac d’Hourtin path. It’s a short walk to this natural setting. The site is freely accessible, and no reservations are required for self-guided tours. However, for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the local ecosystem, guided tours are regularly offered by naturalists.
The Contaut lagoon trail
The Contaut lagoon trail is one of the best ways to discover this natural site. Stretching over some 3 kilometers, this trail, accessible to all, allows you to appreciate the richness of the region. The trail winds through marshes, dunes and pine forests, offering a complete panorama of the local biodiversity. Numerous educational panels line the Contaut lagoon trail, explaining the history and special features of the lagoon.
The Contaut lagoon trail is suitable for families and children, making it a perfect activity for educating youngsters about nature. The peaceful atmosphere invites reflection and observation. The trail is particularly enjoyable in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light highlights the beauty of the lagoon.
Guided tours of the nature reserve
For a unique experience, we recommend taking part in a guided tour of the nature reserve. These tours, organized by passionate naturalists, reveal aspects of the Contaut lagoon that you wouldn’t notice on a leisurely stroll. The guides share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna, explaining in detail the dynamics of the ecosystems in place.
These tours of the Contaut lagoon also offer the opportunity to observe some of the more discreet animal species, such as reptiles and amphibians, that inhabit wetlands. Tours of the Contaut lagoon are available on reservation, and are generally organized during the periods when biodiversity is most active, notably spring and autumn.
Things to do around Contaut lagoon
While the Contaut lagoon is a must-see destination for nature lovers, it’s not the only attraction in the region. Nearby Lac d’Hourtin offers a multitude of activities. You can relax on the beaches, enjoy water sports (paddle, canoe, etc.) or hire a bike to explore the surrounding area and the Gironde.
The village of Hourtin is also well worth a visit. Discover the market, where local products take pride of place. The region, rich in natural and cultural heritage, is the perfect place to combine discovery and relaxation.
You can also enjoy the beaches of the Atlantic coast. The Hourtin region is also an ideal starting point for discovering the Médoc, famous for its fine wines.
Take advantage of your stay at our Les Ourmes campsite to discover the Contaut lagoon.