The étang de Canet-en-Roussillon offers a breathtaking landscape for lovers of wide open spaces!
A trip to Canet pond
On one side the sea, on the other the pond. Canet-en-Roussillon's waterfront boasts a vast wetland area that has become a haven for hundreds of birds!
Owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral and classified Natura 2000, this smooth lagoon, in which the silhouette of Mount Canigou is reflected, is a unique and magical place for observation.
Stroll along the discovery trail beside the pond and admire the scenery from the observation posts along the way.
The pond, a listed site
The étang de Canet en Roussillon is a rare and complete ecosystem.
It is part of the European "Natura 2000" network of ecological sites, whose aim is to conserve natural habitats and protect wild bird species.
This lagoon complex is the southernmost surviving element in France of the large lagoon complex on the Languedoc-Roussillon coast.
To protect this unique site, walkers must respect certain rules: stay on the path to respect the flora, avoid picking any of the plants on the site, and be discreet when observing the birds.
The fishing village
Clearly visible on the edge of the étang de Canet, the 10 wooden huts, canes de Provence and sanils form the "fishermen's village".
Rehabilitated in 1993 and frequently restored, the fishermen's huts are insulated against rain, wind and summer heat.
They are no longer used by fishermen as living quarters, but mainly as storage areas for fishing tackle. The site still supports a handful of fishermen who catch eels and wolffish in particular.
Over the past 5 years, the blue crab has made its appearance, disrupting the lagoon's ecosystem. Fishermen are trying to reduce its concentration on the lagoon by mass fishing.
During the summer, visit the exhibition hut, open to the public from June 1 to September 30, Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 7pm. The rest of the year, take advantage of our educational panels to visit the village.
Abundant flora and fauna
Over 246 plant species and 200 species of migratory birds can be discovered throughout the year.
Among them are pink flamingos, sultana ptarmigan, coot, bittern and purple heron.
From mid-February to mid-August during the nesting season, several species can be seen nesting here.
From February to May and August to October, it is also home to many migratory birds, such as the Hairy Crab.
In winter, the Great Egret and Kingfisher are very present.
The pond, an accessible site...
ETANG DE CANET SAINT NAZAIRE
Ponds
A unique observatory site, it is part of the European "Natura 2000" ecological network, with over 246 species listed. Guided tours of the lagoon available in...
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