Courant d’Huchet Nature Reserve: a site steeped in history
The history of the Nature Reserve begins with the discovery of the Courant d’Huchet in 1908 by Gabriele D’Annunzio, an Italian poet staying in the region. From 1934, he had the river and its banks classified among natural monuments and sites of artistic, historical, scientific, legendary or picturesque character. Over the following years, other surrounding areas were recognised or protected in turn:
- 1968: classification of the Léon lake, formed by the development of the dune belt.
- 1977: creation of the hunting and wildlife reserve of the Cout de Moutagne marsh.
- 1980: classification of the shores of the Léon lake.
Finally, in 1981, the area reached its ultimate recognition with the classification of a 618-hectare territory, which became the Courant d’Huchet National Nature Reserve. This haven for local wildlife and flora, in the Landes de Gascogne region, stretches along the Atlantic coast across the towns of Léon, Moliets-et-Maa and Vielle-Saint-Girons.
An immensely rich biodiversity
Each ecological unit within the park is home to a precious and varied natural heritage, characteristic of its particular wetland environment. The richness of the Reserve comes from the uniqueness of each habitat, which also evolves in perfect harmony with the surrounding areas. The dunes along the coast, the peat bogs and marshes near the lake shores, the lush vegetation along the riverbanks… each area is home to a rich ecosystem all year round. The Courant d’Huchet Nature Reserve, situated along a migratory bird corridor, is even recognised at European level as a protected site for endangered species (mink, otters…). Marsh hibiscus with its spectacular flowers, water clover, Osyris or Rouvet… its flora is so diverse it’s a delight to behold without restraint. In some stretches, the heavily shaded Courant d’Huchet even takes on the air of the Amazon! If you choose to explore by water, you’ll need to weave between the willows and other trees that bend and are reflected in the river.
Exploring the Reserve: practical information
The reserve’s wooded area is criss-crossed by numerous waymarked hiking trails that you can follow at your own pace to discover every corner. The local Tourist Office has published a guide to help you find your way around the various routes. We recommend, for example, the loop starting from the Pichelèbe bridge, taking you to the mouth of the Courant via the Nasse dam, Léon lake and Huchet beach. Bird lovers will prefer the Marais de la Pipe loop (Moliets-et-Maa), which leads to an observation point.
Would you rather be accompanied by a guide? Depending on the time of year, the Reserve’s teams also offer 2- to 4-hour outings on specific themes (botany, birdwatching…). For a different way to discover the reserve, take the time to enjoy a boat trip on the Courant d’Huchet. Meet at the Chalet de Pichelèbe or at Léon (Maison de la Réserve). Why not stay nearby? Our 4-star campsite in the Landes, in the heart of the pine forest, is just 65 km from Léon lake. This holiday park, ideally located on the shores of Lake Biscarrosse, promises wonderful getaways with family or friends among the sand dunes of the Atlantic coast and beyond.
