The Regional Natural Park of the Gulf of Morbihan
Seahorse. The fiftieth regional nature park in France, created in 2014, its action is decisive for the preservation of the species of this habitat as rich as fragile. Indeed, this diverse territory hosts nearly half of the marine animal and plant species of France. The emblem of the natural park, the seahorse, represents well this exceptional nature. This very small and rare fish, which swims vertically and whose eggs are carried by the male, is protected. If it is therefore forbidden to fish it, having the chance to observe it is a privilege. And finally, it is the same for each precious animal or plant species of this fascinating ecosystem.
The birds of the marshes. The Gulf of Morbihan is a major place for the observation of many species of sedentary or migratory birds, which enjoy the marshes, mudflats and islets of the territory. We can observe many species of waders, these small wading birds of the wetlands feeding on invertebrates that live in the mud. The National Nature Reserve of the Marshes of Séné is an ideal place to meet them, as well as other ducks and terns of the gulf, but also gulls and passerines. Other marshes offer excellent bird watching experiences and an ideal environment for them, such as those of Lasné, of Brennegi, of Suscinio, of Duer..
Among our favorite birds, will you be able to spot the white spoonbill, this majestic migratory crested wader, with its characteristically shaped beak that allows it to search the mud? Or will you succumb to the charm of the blue-groove, this lively and singing passerine, summering in the gulf?
Besides birds, these areas are also the habitat of dragonflies, butterflies, invertebrates or amphibians like the green tree frog.
Marine flora. This is one of the riches of the Gulf, and one of its major preservation issues: its waters are home to the second largest eelgrass reserve in France. This fascinating aquatic plant grows on sand or mud in meadows, forming real underwater meadows. Its presence influences the environment, acting favorably on the oxygen level of the water and on the fight against pollutants. It is a major source of food for many herbivorous species and for a large number of migratory birds. Finally, it acts as a real protector for hundreds of animal species, such as the seahorse, offering them a refuge area and an ideal setting for reproduction. Today, eelgrass is unfortunately threatened mainly because of human activities. It is therefore important to adopt responsible actions, for example by avoiding anchoring boats in the sea grass beds. The Gulf is also rich in seaweed, which more and more people are adopting for their undeniable nutritional qualities: dulse, ulva, himantale, kombu and nori..
Ilur Island
The Gulf of Morbihan would not be as magical without its islands, each of which is a real little natural paradise. We have chosen to focus on the island of Ilur here, because it has the particularity of being the property of the Conservatoire du Littoral since 2008 and of being managed by the Parc Naturel Régional. It wants to be an example of sustainable development, and opens its doors to visitors in a stake of ecological awareness. In the heart of the gulf, its 40 uninhabited hectares present an ideal natural diversity to set up these ecological actions. This place is the bearer of a fascinating project of preservation and use of natural resources in a logic of sustainable development. For example, we try to be energy independent thanks to solar panels and the use of a well for drinking water. An ancient rustic breed of sheep, the "Landes de Bretagne", after having almost disappeared, has been rehabilitated and grazes the meadows, thus contributing to their maintenance.
The Morbihan coastline
The foreshore. The coastline is subject to the tides of the Atlantic Ocean. The part of the beaches which is discovered at low tide is called the foreshore, and is of an extraordinary natural wealth. Species with an exemplary capacity of adaptation live there, and in particular many shellfish and crustaceans. It is obviously the ideal place to practice fishing on foot, in a respectful way of course.
The dunes. The dunes are a typical landscape of the Morbihan coastline, and they also shelter a sumptuous but fragile biodiversity. It is with this in mind that the vast area of wild dunes from the peninsula of Gâvres to that of Quiberon has obtained the label Grand Site de France in 2018. The parking lots are located at a distance from the coast, and trails for walking and cycling have been developed to welcome visitors while limiting the negative impact on nature. The measures put in place favor the preservation of endangered animal and plant species, such as this small yellow orchid, the Loesel's Liparis: in sharp decline in Europe, it is the object of special attention here, which has allowed it to proliferate in an exceptional way. An extremely charming bird, although very discreet, is also threatened and is the target of protection actions: the interrupted collared grebe. From spring onwards, it lays its eggs on the beach, and these are frequently destroyed under our feet.
The moors of Lanvaux
Inland Morbihan is also home to some remarkable natural areas, such as the Lanvaux moors, which cross the département from west to east. Among the plant species that characterize these forests are heather, gorse and broom, which form pretty, colorful groups. You'll also discover one of the most beautiful ferns in existence, the royal fern, and numerous shrubs, such as holly, juniper and hazel. As for the fauna, you may be lucky enough to come across some deer or hear the pecking of a black woodpecker, before recognizing this sizeable bird with its red cap. Last but not least, the riverbanks are a favorite habitat for otters..
