Exceptional natural heritage
Marseillan and its preserved natural spaces
Marseillan enjoys an exceptional location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea, the Canal du Midi and the Thau lagoon. This unique geographical location offers Marseillan a wealth of unspoilt natural treasures that you'll be delighted to discover during your vacation in the Hérault.
Why not explore Marseillan's natural spaces by bike, thanks to the 25 kilometers of cycle paths in the commune. For example, you can cycle from Marseillan Plage to Sète. It's a great way to enjoy beautiful panoramic views and meet the local flora and fauna. Depending on the season, you may even be able to get up close and personal with pink flamingos!
The Thau lagoon, widely known for its oysters, is remarkable in many ways. The Etang de Thau is fed by freshwater from the Canal du Midi at Les Onglous, and by saltwater from the Mediterranean Sea at the Canal Pisses-Saumes and Canal Quilles. A very special and rare situation. Covering an area of 7,500 hectares, the Thau lagoon is home to almost 200 Marseilles-based shellfish farmers, who cultivate oysters and mussels. The site is home to vast eelgrass beds, classified Natura 2000.
Another beautiful protected natural area, between Marseillan and Cap d'Agde: the Bagnas Nature Reserve. The Bagnas has been classified as a Nature Reserve since 1983 and Natura 2000 since 2004. These wild, marshy areas are an exceptional refuge for the conservation of local flora and fauna: over 250 species of birds live here (birds, reptiles, amphibians, pink flamingos, grey herons, egrets...). You can visit the Bagnas Nature Reserve on your own. However, access to certain aspects of the reserve is limited and Book guided tours organized by ADENA throughout the year. Our enthusiastic guides will tell you all about the local geography, history, flora and fauna... in a fun, family-friendly environment.
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