Parc du Marquenterre
A stunning nature reserve in the Baie de Somme, renowned for its diverse birdlife, especially storks, and excellent viewing facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak migration seasons
Parc du Marquenterre
Best Time
Peak migration seasons
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning nature reserve in the Baie de Somme, renowned for its diverse birdlife, especially storks, and excellent viewing facilities.
"Amazing nature reserve, fantastic, friendly and really knowledgeable staff!"
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant birds. Binoculars can also be rented on-site for a small fee.
Ask for English Guides 🗣️
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable; don't hesitate to ask for English pamphlets or assistance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stork Nests
Throughout the reserve
Witness majestic storks tending to their nests, a truly captivating sight for nature lovers.
Diverse Birdlife
Various hides and viewing platforms
Spot spoonbills, egrets, herons, raptors, and avocets in their natural habitat.
Educational Hides
Along the trails
Observe wildlife from strategically placed hides, often with knowledgeable staff to guide you.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead, Especially in Peak Season
Hydration is Key, Especially in Summer
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant birds. Binoculars can also be rented on-site for a small fee.
Ask for English Guides 🗣️
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable; don't hesitate to ask for English pamphlets or assistance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking on well-laid trails, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Check the Weather ☀️
Summer can be hot, so plan accordingly with water and sun protection.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant birds. Binoculars can also be rented on-site for a small fee.
Ask for English Guides 🗣️
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable; don't hesitate to ask for English pamphlets or assistance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking on well-laid trails, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Check the Weather ☀️
Summer can be hot, so plan accordingly with water and sun protection.
Explore the Cafe ☕
Enjoy excellent hot chocolate and snacks at the cafe located at the start/end of your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parc du Marquenterre for its incredible wildlife, particularly the diverse bird species and the impressive stork colonies. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, along with the well-maintained trails and hides, significantly enhance the experience. While some note the potential for long walks and the need for hydration in summer, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-visit for nature lovers.
"Amazing nature reserve, fantastic, friendly and really knowledgeable staff (most do speak a little English too).
The wildlife here is amazing, depending on the time of year you can see species you won't see a short hop across the water in the UK. Spoonbills, all 3 Egret species, 3 Heron species, Storks, Stilts and raptors.
The restaurant offers typical 3 course lunches but the bar does offer sandwiches and cakes.
Take plenty of water in summer though, it's a hot walk!"
Hewesy YT
"Well laid out trails, lots of signage and hides. We saw lots of birds, including several stork nests. Toilets half way round, ample free parking. Best to book in advance, if like us the St Valery Tourist Office tells you there is no need to book - ignore them, and avoid waiting 30 minutes on the hot sun !"
pete turner
"Outstanding and worth every penny of the 12 EUR/adult entrance fee. You can see many interesting bird outside but not such a variety in one, natural settings. Many hides to observe from. Not busy at this time of year. We pre-booked but didn't need to really (we jumped a short queue. Only one toilet on the 6km route (with cut outs). So ... Storks, herons. Cormorants, egrets (large, small and castle) nesting ... Avocets, Grebe (L+S), and many more. Binoculars could be hired for 5 EUR. You need them for best effect. We asked for an English translation of the pamphlet we were given. It was actually a fast better guide ... So, ask. Many helpers (with top grade scopes) about the place. All willing, if not expert. (Time of year and weather matter, obviously). Cafe at start/end does excellent hot chocolate and has excellent toilets."
Angus Watson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parc du Marquenterre is located in Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont, France. It's accessible by car, with ample free parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access. The nearest major towns are Le Crotoy and Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.
Yes, there is ample free parking available for visitors at the entrance of the park.
While possible, visiting without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance if you plan to rely on public transport.
From the A16 motorway, take exit 24 towards Rue. Follow signs for Le Crotoy and then for Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont. The park is well-signposted from the surrounding areas.
The main trails are generally well-maintained, but some areas might be challenging. It's advisable to inquire directly with the park about specific accessibility for your needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 12 EUR per adult. Prices may vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current pricing information.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid potentially long queues. Some visitors have found it unnecessary, but pre-booking is a safer bet.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Parc du Marquenterre website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is typically available on the park's official website. It's worth checking there for any applicable offers.
The entrance fee generally includes access to the nature reserve, trails, and hides. You'll also receive a high-quality information booklet with a map.
🎫 🐦 Onsite Experience
Parc du Marquenterre is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including storks, spoonbills, egrets (all three species), herons, raptors, avocets, grebes, and many more. The species you see will depend on the time of year and migration patterns.
Yes, there are often knowledgeable staff members at various hides and viewing platforms who can provide insights and answer questions about the wildlife.
The full route can be quite long, especially if you take your time observing the wildlife. Allow at least 3-4 hours, or a full day, to fully appreciate the reserve.
Yes, binoculars are available for rent on-site for a fee (around 5 EUR), which is highly recommended for the best viewing experience.
Yes, there are toilets available, including at the start/end cafe and halfway along the longer routes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site that offers typical three-course lunches. The bar also serves sandwiches and cakes.
The restaurant typically serves traditional French cuisine. The bar offers lighter options like sandwiches and pastries.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water and snacks, especially given the recommendation to stay hydrated.
Information on specific dietary options is best obtained by contacting the park or cafe directly. However, sandwiches and cakes are usually available.
The cafe's operating hours may vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
The numerous bird hides and viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points for wildlife photography. The diverse landscapes of marshland, dunes, and forest also provide beautiful backdrops.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds. A tripod can be useful, especially in hides, but consider portability for the trails.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check park regulations.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also when birds are typically most active.
Yes, the stork nests are a popular subject. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on shorter loops or specific areas if you have very young children. The cafe at the entrance/exit is a great spot for a treat after exploring. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are also a great resource for answering kids' curious questions about the birds and their habitats.
📸 Photographers
Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for photography. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and consider bringing a rain cover for your gear. Patience is key; spend time observing from the hides to get the best shots. Remember to respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Take your time to explore the different habitats and utilize the hides effectively. Engage with the knowledgeable staff; they can offer invaluable insights into bird identification and behavior.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Birdwatching Paradise: What to Expect
Key species to look out for include the iconic storks, which have established successful breeding colonies here, as well as various egrets, herons, avocets, and numerous duck species. Raptors are also frequently spotted soaring overhead. The park provides excellent facilities, including numerous well-placed hides that allow for close observation without disturbing the wildlife. Binoculars are essential, and renting a pair is a worthwhile investment for maximizing your viewing opportunities.
Timing is crucial for birdwatchers. Spring and autumn are peak migration periods, offering the highest diversity of species. However, even outside these seasons, the park provides a rich experience with resident birds and breeding colonies. The park's educational boards also add significant value, making it an excellent destination for families and those keen to learn more about avian life.
Navigating the Trails and Hides
The bird hides are a central feature of the Parc du Marquenterre experience. These strategically positioned shelters allow visitors to observe birds at close range without causing disturbance. Many hides offer excellent views and are equipped with scopes or ample space for personal binoculars. Visitors often praise the helpfulness of the staff stationed at some of these hides, who are eager to share their knowledge and point out specific birds.
While the trails are generally accessible, it's worth noting that the full circuit can be long, and there's only one toilet on the 6km route with cut-outs.
The Role of Staff and Education
The park also places a strong emphasis on education, with hundreds of educational boards scattered throughout the reserve. These boards are particularly beneficial for school groups and families, providing engaging information about the local flora and fauna.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit