Étang Du Cousseau

Étang du Cousseau is a protected nature reserve covering roughly 600 hectares in the commune of Lacanau, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France's Gironde department. Established as a protected area in 1976, it remains one of the best-preserved stretches of coastal nature in the Médoc, despite sitting just a few kilometres from the Atlantic and less than 50 kilometres from Bordeaux.

Where is Étang du Cousseau located?

The lake sits between two much larger bodies of water — Lac d'Hourtin-Carcans to the north and Étang de Lacanau to the south. Of the three lakes in this stretch of the Médoc, Cousseau is the smallest, but also the wildest and the least altered by human activity. The Atlantic coastline lies only about 3 kilometres away, making the reserve a distinctive natural landmark in a region otherwise known for its beaches and larger lakes.

What kind of landscape and wildlife does the reserve protect?

The reserve's landscape alternates between ancient wooded dunes, maritime pine forest mixed with oaks and strawberry trees (Arbutus), and wetlands surrounding the lake itself. This mix of habitats gives the site significant ecological value at a national level, which is why it holds the status of a national nature reserve.

Cousseau lies along a bird migration corridor, and in spring and autumn more than 200 bird species have been recorded here, including the osprey, greylag goose, Eurasian spoonbill, and black-headed gull. Beyond birdlife, the reserve shelters mammals typical of the Landes forests — roe deer, wild boar, and badger — while the calm surroundings and abundant food also support two more elusive species: the European otter and the genet.

Can visitors explore the reserve?

Yes, the site is open to independent, free visits. A walking trail of just under 8 kilometres loops around the lake, crossing the different habitats described above. Along the route, viewpoints and observation towers let visitors watch waterbirds and other wildlife on the lake and surrounding marshes without disturbing their natural behaviour.

Why visit Étang du Cousseau?

Étang du Cousseau appeals to travellers looking for genuinely wild, lightly developed nature in the Médoc, in contrast to the busier, more tourist-oriented shores of the neighbouring Hourtin-Carcans and Lacanau lakes. Its national nature reserve status ensures the lake's ecosystem, along with the surrounding forest and wetlands, stays protected while remaining open to quiet, on-foot wildlife observation, free of charge.

Frequently asked questions

How large is the Étang du Cousseau reserve? It covers approximately 600 hectares.

When was the reserve created? It was placed under protection in 1976.

How far is it from the ocean? The reserve lies about 3 kilometres from the Atlantic coastline.

What wildlife can be seen here? Over 200 bird species during migration periods (including osprey, greylag goose, and spoonbill), as well as roe deer, wild boar, badgers, European otters, and genets.

Is there an entrance fee? No, visiting is free and self-guided, along a walking trail of just under 8 km.

Which lakes border Étang du Cousseau? Lac d'Hourtin-Carcans to the north and Étang de Lacanau to the south.