Guérande salt marshes: nearby places to visit and places to stay

Located in southern Brittany, 30 km from the Domaine de Pont Mahé campsite in Loire-Atlanque, Guérande has been shaped by man and sea for centuries, and produces some of Europe’s most northerly salt. More than 2,000 hectares spread over nine communes, on clay soils that form a veritable mosaic.

Guérande is also known for its medieval heritage. Step back in time and relive the Middle Ages with its half-timbered houses. The town and its salt marshes are also close to the Atlantic coast, ideal for surfing and swimming enthusiasts. Come to La Baule after a visit to the Guérande salt marshes?

Protected sites

The history of salt marshes

From our campsite in Loire-Atlantique, discover the history of the Guérande salt marshes, or more specifically of Guérande salt, dating back to the Romans. The ruins of their villas bear witness to their activities.

By way of protection, and more than a millennium later, the city, prey to repeated attacks, built earthworks to protect itself. These walls, which encircle the city, were not enough to prevent it from being sacked by the Spanish in the mid-14th century. These imposing walls, which surround the town, give it its medieval appearance.

In the golden age of the 15th century, several hundred ships exported salt right up to the silting up of the port. The resurgence of artisanal salt production and the Guérande salt marshes coincides with a revival in tourism.

And you’ll feel the joy of getting lost in this vast network of salt marshes. At dawn and dusk, the basins sparkle in incredible shades of silver, blue, pink and green. And today, small pyramids of white salt are formed by salt workers preserving the know-how of their ancestors.

Salt marshes: passing on knowledge

For four months, from June to September, the fleur de sel is carefully harvested and stored in the typical wooden sheds known as salorges. With the rhythm of the tides, the sunshine and the wind, the salt workers shape their work on the 2,000 hectares of Guérande’s salt marshes. A natural heritage recognized as a remarkable site. The salt marshes of the Guérande peninsula were awarded the landscape label in 1992.

Since 1991, these areas have also been classified as Natural Areas of Ecological Interest. They are also classified as Important Bird Areas. Eventually, the area could join the European Natura 2000 network and be recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. An exceptional site requiring special protection. This is due to its fragility, its rarity and the balance of the flora and fauna it shelters.

Many salt marshes to visit

From our campsite close to the salt marshes, enjoy magnificent peace and quiet. Enjoy the company of beautiful light and bird species, a dream to enjoy nature to the full. All this with a naturalist guide who’s an expert on this beautiful area.

A symbol of Loire-Atlantique heritage, the salt marshes are an inseparable part of the Guérande landscape. Salt production is the result of centuries of fascinating know-how. It’s a pleasure to stroll through the heart of the salt marshes and observe the activities of the salt workers.

Just 5 minutes from the medieval town of Guérande, Terre du Sel welcomes you every day to the heart of the Guérande salt marshes. On a guided tour, you’ll discover the secrets of salt production, ancient crafts and extraordinary natural beauty.

Two more salt marshes to explore near Guérande

The Batz-sur-Mer salt marshes: near Guérande, the Batz-sur-Mer salt marshes offer a fascinating insight into the world of salt workers. Take a guided tour and discover the flora and fauna. They are emblematic of the marshes, as are the techniques used to harvest fleur de sel and coarse salt. La Maison des Paludierslocated in the heart of the marshes, offers exhibitions and workshops. These help visitors understand the workings and history of the salt marshes, a veritable treasure trove of local heritage.

The Mès salt marshes: a little further west, the Mès salt marshes, near Assérac and Mesquer, are a less-frequented but equally remarkable destination. Here, the tradition of salt-making continues in a wild and peaceful setting. Enjoy these marshes for their magnificent walks. You can watch the birds and appreciate the play of light at sunset. Guided tours help you better understand the role of these marshes . Understand the impact of the marshes on the local economy, with fascinating explanations of the salt worker’s trade.

Cultural and and family outings

Discover how salt marshes work. Learn about the salt workers’ trades, the flora, fauna and flavors. Enjoy a peaceful moment that transcends time. Children as young as 3 years old can also enjoy a fun tour.

Finally, you can visit the salt marsh museum. It traces the history of this exceptional site through collections of graphic and decorative arts. Discover exhibitions of old photographs and 19th-century working and ceremonial costumes worn by salt marsh workers. Immerse yourself in a timeless journey!

Stay close to the salt marshes

Our 4-star campsite in Loire-Atlantique is ideally located just a few hundred meters from the beach, in a quiet, family-friendly setting . Come and spend an unforgettable vacation at our campsite just 20 minutes from Guérande. Take advantage of the aquatic area with heated indoor pool and children’s pool all day long. You can swim or simply relax in the sun on the deckchairs provided. For the pleasure of the whole family, young children can enjoy water games, including a small slide.

Our Pont Mahé campsite near Guérande offers mobile homes for 2 to 8 people. All our accommodation includes everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll find everything you need, from a fully-equipped kitchen (microwave, fridge, hob) to a private bathroom and spacious bedrooms with quality bedding. You can also relax in the living room and on the outdoor terraces to take full advantage of the natural surroundings. You can also pitch your tent in the green park. Park your caravan or motorhome on specially equipped pitches.

Practical services for the whole family

At Camping Pont Mahé, we offer you a carefree stay. Take advantage of practical services such as laundry facilities, as well as a bar and snack bar for gourmet breaks. Our on-site team is on hand to answer all your questions and ensure your stay is as pleasant as possible.

A green setting to recharge your batteries

The Domaine de Pont Mahé is set in verdant parkland. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge your batteries. Whether it’s after a day exploring the salt marshes or the nearby beaches, you’ll find plenty to relax on our campsite.

The calm and soothing atmosphere of our campsite will help you relax. Make the most of your vacation near the salt marshes. Would you like to relax on your own pitch? Or take advantage of our communal areas, such as the pétanque court or games room? Make the choice that suits you and the rhythm of your desires.

Domaine de Pont-Mahé is the ideal base from which to discover Guérande and its salt marshes.