Réserve naturelle régionale du polder de Sébastopol

The Sébastopol Polder extends over 133 hectares, forming a 4-kilometer-long strip of land with both terrestrial and aquatic environments near Noirmoutier Island.

The polder construction finished in 1856 and received its name after the Battle of Sebastopol, until a dike breach in 1978 led to flooding and restoration efforts.

The Dutch Jacobsen family introduced polder construction techniques to the area while conducting salt trade with Noirmoutier Island in the 19th century.

A 3.2-kilometer trail connects the island's entry points, allowing visitors to observe the diverse wildlife and landscape features throughout the protected area.

The reserve hosts 4,000 pairs of nesting water birds from April to July, including terns, gulls, and avocets, making it one of France's largest breeding colonies.

Location: Barbâtre

Inception: February 11, 2008

GPS coordinates: 46.94389,-2.15806

Latest update: June 23, 2025 10:00