Réserve naturelle nationale de Lilleau des Niges, National nature reserve in Les Portes-en-Ré, France.
The reserve encompasses salt marshes, sandy shores, and coastal ponds across the northern section of Île de Ré, providing essential habitats for wildlife species.
Established in 1980, the reserve emerged from former salt production areas, transforming industrial lands into a protected natural environment for native species.
The Maison du Fier museum, housed in a former salt storage building, presents exhibitions about local wildlife and environmental conservation methods.
Visitors can explore the reserve through a 2-kilometer trail system along its southern border, while guided tours offer insights into bird species identification.
The reserve functions as a primary stopover location for migratory birds, supporting populations of shorebirds throughout their seasonal movements.
Location: Les Portes-en-Ré
Inception: 1980
Website: http://ile-de-re.lpo.fr
GPS coordinates: 46.23139,-1.50611
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:49
The Île de Ré reveals preserved sites beyond its main destinations. The salt marshes of Loix and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve host more than 300 species of migratory birds, while the Baleines Lighthouse offers a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Beaches such as Trousse Chemise and Les Grenettes are characterized by their natural dunes and conditions suitable for water sports. The Fier d'Ars Port maintains its traditional fishing activity with boats and houses with green shutters. The Salt Eco-museum traces the history of salt harvesting and the work of salt workers in the marshes. The Baleines Farm combines agricultural production with shellfish farming near the coast. Villages like Loix offer traditional shops and exhibitions on local customs. These sites reflect the maritime heritage and traditions shaping the island's identity for generations.
Phare des Baleines
4.5 km
Église Saint-Étienne d'Ars-en-Ré
2.7 km
Phare des Baleineaux
7.2 km
Écomusée du Marais Salant
3.9 km
Loix tide mill
5.4 km
Saint Catherine Church of Loix
5.1 km
Maison du Fier
1 km
Couvent des Sœurs de la Sagesse
5.3 km
Manoir d'Ars-en-Ré
2.8 km
Raffinerie à sel d'Ars-en-Ré
2.4 km
Camping Île de Ré
2.2 km
Plage du Petit Bec
2.7 km
Plage de Trousse Chemise
2.4 km
La Ferme des Baleines
1.8 km
Église Saint-Clément de Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
2.9 km
Plage de la Conche des Baleines
3.1 km
Vieux Phare des Baleines
4.5 km
Fort de Grouin
7.3 km
Kora-Karola Battery
2.6 km
Plage Gros Jonc
2.7 km
Church of the Portes-en-Ré
2.1 km
Golf de Trousse-Chemise
1.3 km
Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Flux-et-des-Reflux des Portes-en-Ré
2.5 km
Marais du Fier d'Ars
2.8 km
Plage du Grand Marchais
3 km
Plage de l'Anse du Fourneau
2.3 km
Plage de la Loge
2.5 km
Carrousel Park
7 kmReviews
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