Dikes, geometrically arranged ponds and abundant birdlife make the Domaine de Certes et Graveyron a distinctive part of Lanton. The 530-hectare area lies in the municipalities of Lanton and Audenge on the Bassin d’Arcachon. Its landscape has been shaped by people for centuries; its architectural heritage is linked to water management, agriculture and fish farming. At the same time, the Domaine on the Atlantic coast is important for national and European birdlife.
Explore the wetland on foot
Several walks in the Domaine lead to scenic spots and opportunities to observe wildlife. You can explore the area on foot on your own or with a guide. It is freely accessible year-round, except when special restrictions apply. The Sentier du Littoral in Lanton provides access to the Domaine; a side path called the “voie des Anglais” also branches off from the coastal trail.
The distinctive combination of nature and human activity can be seen in the reclaimed areas and geometrically shaped ponds. Those interested in birdwatching will find an important site here; those who pay attention to the history of the landscape can also explore its links to water management, agriculture and fish farming.
Church, museum and architectural history
The Church of Notre-Dame de Lanton was built in the 12th century from stone from the Gard and Garluche, and extended in the 19th century. It is the only church on the Bassin d’Arcachon surrounded by its cemetery. Signage at the church explains its history. The site thus combines a specific architectural feature with an introduction to local architectural history.
At Gardarem, 800 tools, objects, accessories and items of clothing document the working lives of earlier generations. The Gardarem Écomusée in Taussat preserves Gascon heritage and the memory of former oyster farming and pine resin extraction. The museum is open year-round on Saturdays and Sundays: in winter from 4 to 6 p.m., and in summer from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission is free. As opening hours may vary seasonally, it is advisable to check the current schedule before your visit.
Other historic buildings in Taussat offer different points of reference in time. The present-day Chapelle Saint-Louis was completed in 1963; its stained-glass windows were made by the Bordeaux enameller Mirande. The Vieux port de Taussat was dug by hand in 1855 and inaugurated in 1878. Villa Tamaris, completed in 1907, is considered the first reinforced-concrete house on the Bassin d’Arcachon. Together, these dates illustrate different aspects of local and architectural history, from harbour construction to 20th-century architecture.
Coast and seasonal activities
The Bassin de Baignade de Lanton carries the “Handiplage” label and provides people with reduced mobility with access, safety and the special equipment needed for assistance while bathing. Plage de Suzette was formerly called “La Baie des fées”; the former name is part of the history of this particular coastal spot.
Attelage du Bassin offers carriage rides departing from Cassy. The three routes differ in their destinations: one leads to the promenade, the oyster huts and the harbour; another runs through Taussat to the beach via the old harbour and the village; the third goes through the pine forest to Lac de Mouchon. As routes may change, you should confirm their availability before your trip.
From April to October, nature, discovery and educational tours are organised in Lanton, including nature walks, trips on the water and activities for children. During the same period, you can rent bicycles at the Bureau d’Accueil de Lanton. These seasonal activities offer one way to plan your stay; the museum, landscape and architectural history offer other points of focus.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Médard-De-Guizières, Valeyrac, Saint-Léon, Bourg, Monprimblanc, Illats, Langoiran, Saint-Loubès.
See the regional travel overview: Gironde.
