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Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Sept-îles

Bretagne  >  France

The Sept-Îles nature reserve was classified in 1976 and occupies an area of 320 ha spread over five main islands.

Added* by Abolivier Lucie
Most recent update 22 December 2021

Description

France's first protected area under private law, the Sept-Îles ornithological reserve was placed under protection in 1912 by the LPO, which was then fighting against the massacre of Atlantic Puffin on this site. Since then, and its classification as a national nature reserve in 1976, it has attracted many other species. It is home to 25,000 pairs of seabirds, including 175 pairs of Atlantic Puffin (the last colony in mainland France), 157 pairs of Manx Shearwater and 22,000 pairs of Northern Gannet (the only French colony). In addition to the birds, the reserve also hosts a colony of grey seals of about 40 individuals, the second largest in France after the Molène archipelago.

Details

Access

The best way to get close to these birds is to take the passenger boats that offer excursions around this archipelago. (It is also possible to board traditional sailing boats). During this excursion (2-3 hours), you will discover the different islands of the archipelago thanks to the live commentary. Boats leave from the harbour of Trestraou (for info check www.tourisme.perros-guirec.com). Some excursions offer a stopover on Ile aux Moine. Attention: following the bad weather of this winter 2019, the access to the Ile aux Moine is now done by a rope bridge (Monkey Bridge type). It is mobile and therefore unsuitable for people with walking or balance difficulties. Pushchairs and dogs are forbidden.

Terrain and Habitat

Sea

Conditions

Rocky , Hilly

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Good birding season

Spring

Best time to visit

Spring

Difficulty walking trail

Accessible by

Boat

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

For more info see https://sept-iles.lpo.fr

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Map

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