Marquenterre Park, located in the heart of the Baie de Somme, is a true natural treasure trove renowned for its rich biodiversity and its key role in birdwatching in France. This unique site welcomes thousands of visitors each year, ecotourism and nature enthusiasts, who come to discover more than 320 bird species in their natural habitat. The experience is more than just a stroll: hiking, photography, guided tours, and outdoor activities are all integral parts of this exceptional immersion in wildlife. This comprehensive tourist guide offers practical tips and advice to maximize your visit, highlighting the park’s ecological diversity and the activities available.
Between pine forests, dunes, marshes, and meadows, Marquenterre Park features accessible trails that allow for in-depth exploration while respecting the fragile balance of this natural sanctuary. The site combines free access with supervised experiences such as horse-drawn carriage rides, nature tours for the whole family, and introductory wildlife photography workshops. These activities contribute to a better understanding of local wildlife and raise awareness of conservation issues, while offering a friendly and educational experience for every visitor, from novices to experienced birdwatchers.
Discover the history and exceptional biodiversity of the Parc du Marquenterre
The Parc du Marquenterre, created in 1973 from former farmland, is now a major nature reserve recognized in France and Europe. Its history begins with Henri Jeanson, then Michel Jeanson, who transformed these spaces to provide a vital refuge for numerous species of migratory birds. The Bay of Somme and its 7,000 acres protect a diverse ecosystem where dunes, wetlands, and forests coexist. This mosaic of habitats fosters an impressive wealth of wildlife.
On average, more than 320 species of birds are observed here, including herons, storks, spoonbills, and ospreys. Respect for nature is essential: visitors follow marked trails and refrain from any disturbance, allowing the birds to flourish freely in their natural environment. The regular presence of naturalist guides adds significant educational value, explaining the behaviors, migrations, and interactions within this habitat. 🦅 More than 320 bird species observed throughout the year
- 🌿 Diverse ecosystems: dunes, marshes, meadows, forests
- 🔒 Protected areas accessible via trails and camouflaged observation posts
- 📚 Close collaboration with expert naturalists and ornithologists
- ♻️ Ecotourism practices that preserve the integrity of the site
- Element
| Description | Area |
|---|---|
| Approximately 1,500 hectares within the Baie de Somme Nature Reserve | Foundation |
| Created in 1973 by Michel Jeanson, amateur ornithologist | Main species |
| Herons, storks, spoonbills, ospreys, mute swans | Trails |
| 6 km of marked trails for hiking and birdwatching | Observation posts |
| 13 camouflaged cabins spread throughout the park | The routes must-see hikes in Marquenterre Park |
Exploring Marquenterre Park on foot is the best way to get up close to nature and observe the incredible diversity of birds and landscapes. With its 6 kilometers of developed trails, the park offers several routes suitable for all levels. These paths wind through different ecological zones, from pine forests to vast wet meadows, passing dunes and ponds.
The main trail features two remarkable viewpoints located on a hill, offering a panoramic view of the bodies of water where ducks, herons, and other waders gather. Explanatory signs mark the route, detailing the local wildlife and the unique features of the habitats crossed. To extend the adventure, it is possible to take a longer hike of approximately fifteen kilometers around the park, ideal for lovers of long walks and wild landscapes. 🌲 Trails varying between woods, marshes, and dunes
👣 Easy 6 km trail, accessible to families
- 🔭 Shortcuts available to adapt the duration and difficulty
- 📍 13 observation points for a privileged natural hide
- 🐾 Extended 16 km trail with additional points of interest
- Itinerary
- Distance
| Average duration | Features | Main circular trail | 6 km |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 to 3 hours | Easy access, multiple observation points | Hike around the park | 16 km |
| 4 to 5 hours | Varied trail with panoramic views of the bay | Short routes | 45 to 90 minutes |
| Suitable for families and people with reduced mobility | Information panels on biodiversity | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR9xMCvkFOk | Birdwatching: how to make the most of the observation points? |
For an optimal experience, here are some practical tips:
🕵️♂️ Adopt a calm and discreet behavior to avoid alerting the birds
🔭 Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe from a distance without disturbing them
- 📅 Favor early morning or late afternoon hours, when birdwatching activity is more intense
- 👨🏫 Take a guided tour to benefit from the explanations and advice of a naturalist expert
- 📸 Prepare your equipment for wildlife photography, favoring a long-focal lens
- Each post offers a unique window onto a different aspect of wildlife. Some stations are very quiet, intended for peaceful observation, while others sometimes attract many passionate photographers. In any case, these facilities fully contribute to the park’s responsible ecotourism, ensuring respectful interaction with nature.
- Post
Type of observation
| Main species | Usage recommendations | Heronry post | Nesting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herons, egrets | Absolute silence, early morning recommended | Salt marsh post | Feeding, migration |
| Ducks, waders | Bring binoculars and a long-term blind | Lakeside hide | Waterbird observation |
| Mute swans, spoonbills | Use a telephoto lens for photography | Dune post | Breeding species |
| Warblers, swifts | Stay mobile, avoid sudden movements | Outdoor activities for the whole family at Parc du Marquenterre | Beyond simple birdwatching, the Parc du Marquenterre offers a range of activities suitable for all ages, promoting fun discovery and raising awareness of nature. Horse-drawn carriage rides, nature tours, and photography workshops are aimed at both children and adults, offering interactive and educational experiences. |
Highlights include:
🐎
2-hour horse-drawn carriage ride
- to explore the polder at the leisurely pace of Boulogne draft horses. 🦉 Naturalist Tour
- : a family treasure hunt to uncover clues about the world of birds along the trail. 📷 Introductory wildlife photography workshop
- to capture wildlife in its most intimate moments. 🎶 Twilight tour
- with the sound of toads and owls, accompanied by a picnic on site. 🦋 Discover the little creatures during a walk dedicated to insects and other microfauna essential to the ecosystem.
- These activities, supervised and led by naturalist guides, enrich the visit and strengthen participants’ involvement in preserving local biodiversity. To fully enjoy these experiences, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. Activity Duration Minimum Age
Guide Price
| Horse-drawn Carriage Ride | 2 hours | All Ages | €25-30 (child/adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature Mission | 2-3 hours | 6 years | €12-16 |
| Photography Workshop | Half-day | 16 years | €72 |
| Twilight Tour | 3 hours | 12 years | €26-41 |
| Discovering Small Animals | 2 hours | 12 years | €16-26 |
| https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGv_eBRlHos | Practical Guide: Planning Your Visit to Parc du Marquenterre in 2025 | To make the most of your stay, it’s essential to consider several practical factors before you set off. Marquenterre Park is located in Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont, about 6 km west of Rue, in the Bay of Somme. Access is mainly by car, via a country road followed by a forest track leading to a large parking lot. Park hours vary depending on the season: | 🕒 February to March: open from 10am to 6pm |
🍂 October: open from 10am to 6pm
🌓 November: open weekends from 10am to 5pm after November 5th
❄️ December (Christmas holidays): open from 10am to 5pm
- The 2025 admission fees for a self-guided visit are as follows:
- Category
- Age
- Price (€)
- Children
6 to 18 years
| 8.60 | Adults | 19 years and over |
|---|---|---|
| 11.50 | Under 6 years | – |
| Free | Binoculars rental | – |
| €5 and over | The visitor center has a restaurant with a terrace that offers local dishes and a well-deserved break after the hike. For those who prefer to explore the surrounding area, nearby towns like Le Crotoy or Rue also offer dining and accommodation options. | 🚗 Main access by car, parking at the entrance |
| 🧭 Map and guide booklet available at the visitor center | 🐾 Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing recommended | 🎒 Bring binoculars and a camera |
Finally, for enthusiasts looking to expand their experience, the park offers themed guided tours and seasonal activities that can be booked on the official website.
- Guided tours and workshops to explore the Parc du Marquenterre in depth
- Within the Parc du Marquenterre, guided tours are an excellent way to enrich your discovery and understand the complexity of the natural environment. These tours, organized throughout the year, are led by passionate naturalist guides. They cover a variety of themes: bird migration, nocturnal wildlife, field photography, and even the discovery of small creatures, often invisible to the naked eye but essential to the site’s balance.
- Some tours offer unique experiences, for example:
- 🌅
Twilight Tours
to listen to the owls’ calls and observe nocturnal wildlife in complete serenity.
🦜
Migration Weeks
- to follow the migratory phenomenon in detail, with species identification. 📷 Photo hide rental
- to fully immerse yourself in the world of birds and bring back exceptional photos. 🌳 Personalized private tourfor a small group, to benefit from an in-depth discussion with an expert guide.
- Guided tour Duration Audience
- Price Twilight tour 3 hours
| Ages 12 and up | €26 to €41 | Migration weeks | 2.5 to 3 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 6 and up | €16 to €26 | Photo hide rental | Full day |
| Ages 16 and up | €120 | Private tour | 3 hours |
| 1 to 3 people | €210 + €70 per additional person | It is recommended to check available dates and book in advance to guarantee your place, especially during peak periods. These activities contribute to a better understanding of the site and promote a responsible attitude towards the park’s fragile nature. | Nature photography at Parc du Marquenterre: tips and experiences not to be missed |
| Marquenterre National Park is a prime destination for wildlife photography enthusiasts. Its unspoiled nature, combined with the presence of numerous bird species, makes it a prime location for capturing moments of wildlife in complete discretion. However, capturing successful shots requires patience, good equipment, and a basic understanding of the behavior of the animals being observed. | Among the services specifically designed for photographers: | 📷 | Hiding rentals |
specially designed for approaching without disturbing, with a view at water level.
🧑🏫
Introductory workshops
led by photographer guides to perfect framing techniques, composition, and settings.
- 🌄 Sunrise sessions to take advantage of the park’s best light and unique atmosphere. Photo Service
- Description Duration Price
- Resin photo blind Personal waterfront station Full day
| €120 | Introductory photography workshop | Theoretical and practical discovery | Half day |
|---|---|---|---|
| €72 | Guided photo outings | On-site support | Variable |
| Depending on activity | These services attract amateur and professional photographers from all over Europe. They allow them to combine their passion for nature and photography, while contributing locally to supporting the park’s ecotourism activities. To book, we recommend visiting the official website | Parc du Marquenterre | . |
| Explore the region and extend your nature experience around the park | Parc du Marquenterre is not limited to its rich flora and fauna; it is part of a territory with multiple natural and cultural assets. After a day in the park, a broader exploration of the Baie de Somme is a natural extension rich in emotions and discoveries. Some suggestions around the park: | 🏞️ Visit the Domaine du Val for an additional exploration of the local flora and fauna | Discover the Domaine du Val |
🏰 Discover the bay’s typical villages and historic sites, such as Le Crotoy and Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme 🚶♂️ Explore other protected areas in the bay, including the reserves near Cayeux-sur-Mer📷 Take part in wildlife photography excursions in the region’s various natural environments
🌊 Enjoy the beaches and seaside walks to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities
For more nature ideas in the region, we recommend consulting specialized sources, such as
Pose Nature
- or Oiseaux Voyageurs
- . These tourist guides offer inspiration for outdoor activities and advice on combining ecotourism with discovery activities. Site / Activity
- Description
- Distance from the Park
- Domaine du Val
Additional nature reserve and educational trails 8 km Le Crotoy Fishing town with seaside resort and restaurants15 km
| Grand-Laviers Reserve | Protected area ideal for observing biodiversity | 10 km |
|---|---|---|
| Le Hourdel Lighthouse | Panoramic viewpoint over the bay and the sea | 12 km |
| Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park | Extensive flora and fauna reserve (for inspiration) | Explore the Haut-Jura |
| N/A | Essential FAQs for planning your visit to Parc du Marquenterre | When is the best time to birdwatch in Parc du Marquenterre? |
| Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for observing the most active birds. The spring and fall migration seasons offer exceptional birdwatching spectacles. | Can the park be visited as a family with young children? Yes, the trails are family-friendly, and specific activities are offered for younger visitors, such as the nature trail. The park is stroller-friendly in the main areas. | What precautions should I take to avoid disturbing the wildlife? |
| It is recommended to stay on the trails, speak in a low voice, avoid photo flashes and not feed the animals. Respect for the site is essential to the preservation of the Park. | Are there guided tours available and do you need to book them? Yes, guided tours and workshops are organized all year round. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly in high season, in order to guarantee your place. | What equipment is recommended for the tour? |
Bring binoculars, a camera with a telephoto lens if possible, comfortable walking shoes, and clothing appropriate to the weather conditions.
- For more information and official resources, visit
Tourism Bay of Somme - as well as the website
official of the Parc du Marquenterre - .