In the distant past, Giens was actually an island. Nowadays, it is linked to the continent by two parallel stretches of sand. In between these two laces of land, a series of lagoons were, for years, used as salt marshes.


An exceptional biodiversity

The Hyères salt marshes are divided into two wet zones: the Ancient salt marshes and the Pesquiers salt marshes. Outstandingly beautiful, they are home to over 260 bird species and 300 kinds of plants. The intercommunity organisation TPM (Toulon Provence Méditerranée) is in charge of administering this reserve that belongs to the Costal Conservatory.

 


Traces of the past

As early as 963 CE and until 1995, the zone was exploited as salt marshes. It was divided into some exploitations until the 19th century when the plots were brought together. The Pesquiers salt marshes are more recent (1848) and their exploitation was mechanised. In the face of the commercial success of the Camargue salt marshes – its main competitor – local production slowly declined. Nowadays, it is a zone dedicated solely to the protection of natural species.

 


Grab your binoculars!

Practice


Guided visits depending on the number of people For more information and bookings:
All dates

Further informations

☎ +33 (0) 4 94 01 84 50

The modern mission of the salt marshes is to improve and manage this exceptionally rich natural heritage as well as to welcome and inform the general public. During your stay, do not hesitate to take part in one of the guided visits organised all year round, allowing you a glimpse at a rich variety of birds and plants and to find out more about the history of salt in Hyères.

 

Flamingos