Île aux Bœufs, Ecological protected area in Notre-Dame-de-l'Isle, France
Île aux Bœufs is a protected natural area on the Seine River where the land stays low and flat, reaching just 5 meters (16 feet) above water. A central pond and willow vegetation create habitat for many animal and plant species across the island.
Richard the Lionheart built a fortress here in 1197 to defend Normandy from the French king's expansion. This stronghold was important in the medieval conflicts between England and France that shaped the region's fate.
The island's name reflects centuries of cattle raising that shaped how people used this land. Visitors can still sense this pastoral heritage in the open, flat terrain that spreads across the site.
The island connects to Saint-Pierre-la-Garenne through a narrow strip of land, making access straightforward. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground can be wet or boggy depending on the season.
The central pond on the island is not just a water source but also a crucial breeding ground for frogs and other amphibians. This small body of water plays a surprisingly important role in the local wildlife.
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