A different way to visit Cap d’Agde in the Hérault department
While the town of Cap d’Agde in the Hérault region of France is known for its beaches, naturist village and nightclubs, the seaside resort is also renowned for its Bagnas nature reserve. This national nature reserve, protected and classified since 1983, is located at the western end of the Thau Basin. This so-called wetland covers some 562 hectares, and comprises 3 main areas:
- L’étang du Grand Bagnas: A 300-hectare open-water pond, this brackish water body covers most of the reserve, is slightly salty and bitter, and is characterized by its shallowness (around 40 centimeters).
- The reed bed: Adjacent to the Grand Bagnas pond, this reed border creates an ideal environment for a wide variety of animals. A dense, leafy habitat where different species can hide, feed, reproduce and rest. The reedbed plays an essential role in the life cycle of certain rare and protected bird species, such as the paludicolous birds that only live in these areas. The reedbed is also an essential habitat for numerous insects, eels, turtles and frogs. It’s an ecosystem rich in biodiversity. It’s also useful for humans, forming a buffer zone between terrestrial and aquatic environments. It absorbs and stores water during bad weather and floods, protecting nearby homes. It also absorbs heavy metals from water, purifying it and improving water quality. It slows down the penetration of salt water into the land, protecting our freshwater reserves used to produce drinking water. It also provides landscapes, living spaces and leisure facilities for walkers.
- L’étang du petit Bagnas: In contrast to its namesake, this pond is made up of temporary, highly saline lagoons, which are supplied with water according to the season: plenty of water, even flooded in winter, and dry in summer.
Initially exploited for its salt resources, fishing and hunting, the Bagnas National Nature Reserve was, until the French Revolution, long used for its resources. Subsequently, the reserve was used as a fish farm. In 1978, a construction project for an amusement park was undertaken, but was quickly halted by the creation of the Société de Protection de La Nature, enabling the Bagnas National Nature Reserve to be created in 1983 for its protection and conservation.
Today we’re taking you on a more detailed tour of the Grand Bagnas pond. A veritable natural refuge for the 240 species of breeding, migratory and passing birds that can be observed throughout the year. The Bagnas National Nature Reserve at Cap d’Agde is renowned for its wide variety of plants, trees and shrubs:
- Provence cane should not be confused with reed, which is finer and more scattered. It plays an essential role in the reed bed, as explained above.
- The tamarisk, a bushy shrub that can grow up to 5 meters high, grows along waterways and its leaves turn pink as spring approaches.
- The wild orchid, better known in the home, is less common in the wild. Yet this fascinating plant numbers around 160 species and thrives in our climate. If you’re a gourmet like us, we’d like to take a look at the edible plants you can find in Bagnas and in your own gardens, so grab your baskets!
- More commonly known as sea chips, this edible plant is rich in vitamin C. Its common name derives from the fact that it is flat and can be eaten baked, becoming crunchy after cooking.
- Glasswort is a terrestrial plant that is also edible. It flourishes along waterways and is harvested when its stems are in the shape of a green sausage. This plant can be eaten raw in salads, adding that missing touch of salt to your entrées.
- False arugula, also known as lettuce, grows in wasteland and lawns. It can be recognized by its fine leaves and yellow flowers in spring. Its flavor is strong and pronounced, with a slightly garlicky taste.
- Red dandelion, also known as crepis sancta, is a species of dandelion. At this time of year, it’s everywhere in our gardens and meadows. Ideal for salads.
The pond, marshes, lagoon and various wetlands create a favorable environment for plant development. Today, there are some 572 plant species, all of which are essential as basic links in the food chain for the surrounding fauna. The Bagnas National Nature Reserve is also home to numerous archaeological sites, including medieval watchtowers and Gallic remains.
Visit to the Bagnas National Nature Reserve at Cap d’Agde
If you’d like to visit the Bagnas National Nature Reserve at Cap d’Agde, there are two options: For the self-guided tour, there are hiking trails to explore the reserve: The route de Maraval and the south bank of the Canal du Midi. These paths are accessible on foot or by bike.
A viewpoint is also available from the recently installed pond observation area on the roadside between Marseillan plage and Marseillan ville. However, due to the high stakes involved in preserving and maintaining the site and the species that live there, access to certain areas of the reserve is forbidden outside guided tours. If you’d like to take a closer look at the Bagnas National Nature Reserve, educational outings are regularly organized by the ADENA association.
ADENA, educational and fun visits to Cap d’Agde for young and old alike
ADENA, which has been managing the reserve since 1983, organizes educational outings throughout the year, highlighting the different natural sites in the Hérault region.
Raising awareness of conservation issues and helping people to become more aware are the association’s watchwords. Guided by experts in natural environments, set off to discover the natural world around you. Use their know-how to discover the flora and fauna in a different way, awaken your senses and let yourself be guided by the sounds and smells that change with the seasons. Whether you’re a nature expert or a beginner, these nature outings are an opportunity to take a deep breath of fresh air for around 2 hours during your next vacation at Cap d’Agde in the Hérault. Bookings required.
Tested and approved by our La Clape Village teams!
Things to do in Cap d’Agde
– ADENA’s visits to Mont Saint-Loup and Bagnas –
Visit their website to find out about the tour programme and to book your place: www.adena-bagnas.fr
