Réserve naturelle nationale de l'étang Noir

The Réserve naturelle nationale de l'étang Noir is a compact but wildlife-rich nature reserve located right at the entrance to the town of Seignosse, in the Landes department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. Covering roughly 52 hectares along the border between the communes of Seignosse and Tosse, it protects one of the most distinctive wetland environments along this stretch of the French coast. The site was officially designated a national nature reserve on 2 July 1974, making it one of the longer-standing protected areas in the region.

Why is it called the "Black Pond"?

The name Étang Noir — literally "Black Pond" — comes directly from the appearance of its water. The pond is notably deep and its bed is covered in dark, muddy sediment, giving the surface a near-black tint. Surrounding the water is a dense swamp forest that reinforces the shadowy, almost mysterious atmosphere of the place. It is easy to see why this landscape has inspired local legends and stories passed down over generations.

What kind of nature does the reserve protect?

Within its boundaries, the reserve brings together several habitats typical of the wider Landes region: swamp forest, peat bog, the pond itself, and an accompanying stream. This mix of environments supports a genuinely rich biodiversity — researchers have recorded more than 200 plant species and 112 bird species within the reserve. Rare reptiles and mammals also find refuge here, thanks to the well-preserved, consistently humid conditions. The combination of standing water, peat and forest cover has turned the site into a stronghold for species that have lost ground elsewhere in the more heavily developed parts of the Landes coastline.

How can visitors explore the reserve?

Access is organized around a wooden boardwalk that guides visitors through the most sensitive parts of the terrain without disturbing the fragile structure of the bog and swamp floor. This setup lets people observe the wetland habitats up close while limiting the impact of foot traffic on the ecosystem. Most visits begin at the reserve's visitor centre, which houses a permanent exhibition covering the site's natural history and ecology — a useful stop before heading out onto the boardwalk itself.

How many people visit, and is entry free?

The Étang Noir reserve draws more than 37,000 visitors every year, making it one of the more popular natural attractions in the Landes department. Admission is free for most of the year, though a fee applies during the summer season, when visitor numbers in and around Seignosse rise sharply and the reserve needs to manage the increased flow of guests.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the reserve located? It sits at the entrance to Seignosse, straddling the border between the communes of Seignosse and Tosse, in the Landes department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Is entry to the reserve free? Yes, admission is free for most of the year; an entry fee is charged only during the summer season.

What should visitors prioritize seeing? The wooden boardwalk through the swamp forest and peat bog is the highlight, and the visitor centre's permanent exhibition is worth a stop before setting out.

How large is the reserve and when was it created? The reserve covers about 52 hectares and was granted national reserve status in 1974.

What wildlife can be found there? The reserve hosts over 200 plant species and 112 bird species, along with rare reptiles and mammals adapted to wetland conditions.