Domaine de Certes, Protected coastal estate in Audenge, France
Domaine de Certes is a protected estate along the Arcachon Basin spanning hundreds of hectares with diverse habitats. The property includes water basins, wetlands, farmland, and mixed forests that form a varied ecological space.
The estate was founded in the 18th century by the Marquis de Civrac for salt production through large-scale earthwork projects. It later became an agricultural operation with varied purposes before receiving legal protection.
Ernest Valeton de Boissière transformed the estate in 1843 and established the first mixed-gender school in France at the Audenge college.
Access to the grounds is free via walking trails and the area is easy to explore on foot. Guided nature tours are offered during summer months and help visitors understand the different habitats.
The grounds host over 300 plant species and more than 250 bird species, making it exceptionally rich in biodiversity. Additionally, the domain operates as a rehabilitation center for injured birds and contributes to local conservation efforts.
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