The natural environment

The nature reserve

Nature lovers should not miss the Marais d’Yves (a marshland habitat), with its fascinating flora and fauna, while holidaying at Châtelaillon-Plage. 

The Marais d’Yves nature reserve begins just outside the town. It consists of 92 hectares of unspoilt marshland, between La Rochelle and Rochefort.
In this protected area, the delicate balance between plant and animal life has been maintained, enabling plants such as the perfumed orchid (Orchis Coriophera Fragrans) and yellow centaury (Cicendia filiformis) to thrive, and many mammals to establish themselves and reproduce.
Enthusiastic activity leaders will be only too happy to help you explore this protected environment. 

Guided visit to the Marais d’Yves nature reserve

Meet up at the discovery centre, at the Belle Espérance farm, on the RN 137.
Come and explore this unique coastal environment: 

On foot: 2-hour tour 

By bike: 2 hours 30 minutes  

Junior Safari

For children, the centre offers a more fun-driven approach to the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna: the Junior Safari.  

It covers seven topics: the wild rabbit, wading birds, small water creatures, flowers, tracking animals, fossil hunting, insects or the world on six legs. 

A fun way of teaching children to respect and protect the natural world and their environment.