Top 3 places for birdwatching

In spring, the Guérande peninsula awakens to the rhythm of the return of migratory birds. Redshanks, avocets, spoonbills and many passerines come to enjoy the calm waters of the marshes. It’s the perfect time to get your boots on, grab your binoculars and set off to meet this fascinating wildlife. In this land where nature reigns supreme, there are a number of places offering exceptional panoramas and unique opportunities for observation.

1. Port of Bréca Saint-Lyphard

The port of Bréca, in the heart of the Brière Regional Nature Park, is a must for observing migratory birds. At dawn, the marshes come alive: Marsh Harriers, Blackbirds and Shovelers frequent the reed beds, while elegant White Spoonbills scour the shallows.

From the banks or aboard a traditional barge, you can enjoy a rare close-up view of this wildlife on the move. In spring and autumn, Bréca becomes a favourite stopover for hundreds of migrating species – a life-size spectacle to be savoured in the calm of the marsh.

Brière Regional Nature Park

2. The Mès marshes Saint-Molf

The salt marshes of the Mès basin are a permanent spectacle. This vast wetland, classified as a Natura 2000 site, is home to thousands of migratory birds every year. In spring, you can watch the avocets, white stilts and common terns, which enliven the basins with their light calls.

In late summer, redshanks and sandpipers gather in groups before their long journey south. The paths along the carnations allow you to get close without disturbing them, and admire the changing light over the salt marshes. In just a few steps, you pass from the world of the salt workers to that of the birds: a rare balance between heritage and nature.

Saint-Molf and its marshes

3. Pointe de Merquel Mesquer-Quimiac

At the Pointe de Merquel, the Brière meets the ocean. From the observatory set up on the former blockhouse, you can take in an imposing panorama of the bay, the marshes and the offshore islands. It’s a prime spot for spotting migrating oystercatchers, curlews and common terns.

At low tide, the open mudflats attract waders, while offshore, gulls and cormorants silhouette themselves against the horizon. Accessible on foot from the port of Kercabellec, Merquel can be explored at any time of day, but it is at dusk that the colours of the sky and the cries of the birds offer one of the most beautiful views of the Presqu’île.

The Pointe de Merquel

Observe and respect A few simple rules...

Above all, birdwatching requires discretion.
Move slowly, without sudden movements, and keep your voice low.
Keep your distance to avoid disturbing the birds, especially when they are nesting.
Use binoculars rather than trying to get close.
Keep to the paths and areas set aside to preserve habitats.
Avoid feeding the birds, even if you mean well.
It’s best to observe early in the morning or at the end of the day, when activity is quieter.
And above all, take your time: birdwatching should be done with respect and patience.