A short stroll to the Étang Noir in Seignosse

If you're passing through Seignosse, take an hour to walk around the Étang Noir. This little patch of Landes forest is home to an exceptional nature reserve, which is a delight for nature rangers and visitors alike.

Where is the Étang Noir located?

The Étang Noir is located in the communes of Seignosse and Tosse, a stone's throw from Hossegor and Capbreton in the south of the Landes. The commune of Seignosse is renowned for its beaches, surf spots and water park, but also for its ponds, including the Étang Noir, which has been classified as a nature reserve since 1974. Why is the "Étang Noir" called this? It owes its name to the dark colour of its deep waters and muddy bottom, which gives it a very mysterious air.

A fragile ecosystem in need of protection

The Étang Noir is not just a body of water. It is part of a nature reserve sheltered beneath a dense, lush swamp forest, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. Classified as a Natura 2000 site, this 52-hectare green setting is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Landes region.

The Étang Noir nature reserve reveals a landscape that is typical of swamp forests, where tangled alders, willows and hazel trees, primitive ferns, tufts of sedges, peat bogs and streams create a landscape that is very different from the stretches of pine planted by man.

The small "Landes mangrove" provides a haven for remarkable aquatic flora and fauna. Nearly 200 plant species can be found on the site, and more than 112 bird species can be observed. The European otter, the Cistude tortoise, the European mink and almost thirty varieties of dragonfly are closely monitored.

The walk to the Etang Noir, short but intense!

A wooden walkway on duckboards allows visitors to immerse themselves in the heart of nature, while respecting the delicate balance of this unspoilt environment. The walk is free, calm and peaceful. It's a short loop of around one kilometre. Much of the route is shaded, which is appreciated on hot days. At the end of the footbridge, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Étang Noir.

Allow between 30 minutes and 1 hour for the most curious. Children love to play explorer. But be careful with young children: hold their hands as there are no railings. Passage a little complicated in places with pushchairs.

Practical information:

- The reserve is open to visitors free of charge all year round. Access: 600 avenue du Parc des Sports, tel: 05 58 72 85 76.

- Guided tours are organised in July and August: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9.30am and 2pm, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am (booking required, number of places limited). Meet at La Maison de La Réserve. Prices: €5/adult, €4/children (aged 6 to 16), free for children under 6.

- Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a lead.

- Swimming is prohibited, as is fishing and picking plants. Nor is it possible to picnic on site.

Fifteen kilometres from this natural wonder lies our Lou Pignada campsite, a haven of peace and comfort where you can extend your experience in the heart of the Landes countryside. With spacious pitches, comfortable mobile homes and chalets, our 5-star campsite offers the perfect retreat after a day exploring the Étang Noir. For more information and to book your stay, visit the Lou Pignada campsite website.

photo@smellypumpy/pixabay