The Ȋle Nouvelle - a haven of nature and history

Intrigued by the unusual and mysterious history of the islands, bird and nature loving families can set out to discover the Ȋle Nouvelle. Enthusiastic and captivating guides will tell you about the innovative ecological programme in operation on the island.

Birds can be observed on the island due to its position on a major migratory route and you can also tread in the footsteps of the ancient îlouts, the families who cultivated these mysterious islands for over two hundred years. 

Come and discover history, island life, fauna, flora and the estuary with a little imagination. Take a walk in this extraordinary world and enjoy a picnic on the grass...

Several ways to discover the island

2009 is the second year the island has been open to the public. Due to its current state (management and optimisation project in progress, unrestored buildings), it is only accessible via guided tours, run by either the Conseil Général de la Gironde, the site manager, or by other operators, partners of the département.  

The main themes addressed by the tours delivered by the Conseil Général de la Gironde nature guides are as follows:

• Presentation of the site in an institutional context (departmental Sensitive Natural Area preservation policy, connection with the site owner: the Conservatoire du Littoral...)
• Explanation of the site redevelopment and restoration project, implemented by the Conseil Général de la Gironde.
• Introduction to the concept of the formation of the estuary and its string of islands.
• History of the Ȋle Nouvelle, its inhabitants, the agricultural practices operating on the site over the course of time...
• Observation of the natural environment of the site, its ecological characteristics, natural development... the alluvial forest, marshlands, reed bed, river...
• The restoration work carried out by the site management and the impact of this action on the natural environment...
• Brief summary of the biodiversity of the site; the flora and its island characteristics, the fauna, and the birds, in particular. The work of the site management in the advancement of biological diversity in scientific monitoring...

Access

From Pauillac

In July and August, every Tuesday and Thursday departure at 9.30am with picnic lunch on the island (bring your own food), return at 3pm.
15 € /10 € (45 minute boat journey).
Information and bookings: Maison du Tourisme et du Vin de Pauillac (05 56 59 03 08).

From Blaye

In July and August, every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm, return at 5pm.
8 / 6 € (15 minute boat journey).
Sundays - 5th, 12th and 19th July, 2nd and 9th August, and 6th, 13th and 20th September: two departures, 9.30am with picnic lunch on the island (bring your own food) and 2pm.
Information and bookings: Jours de Rivière (06 30 60 27 98).

From Bordeaux

With Le Burdigala canal boat, 22nd July, and 5th and 19th August, departure at 9.30am from the Quai des Queyries landing stage, bring your own lunch, return at 5pm.
30 € / 15 €.
Information and bookings: Bordeaux tourist office (05 56 52 61 40).

From the Pôle Nature de Vitrezay

3rd, 15th, 22nd and 29th July, and 14th, 17th and 24th August (With Passeur boat).
Information and bookings: 05 46 49 89 89 or online at www.charente-maritime.fr


Tours are also provided by additional organisations in May, June and from mid-September to mid-November.

For further information, contact the Océan association, the Conservatoire de l'Estuaire, Gens d'Estuaire, the Communauté de communes de l'Estuaire or the Communauté de communes du canton de Blaye.

Guidelines for a successful guided tour:

• As drinking water is not yet available on the Ȋle Nouvelle and shade is limited, it is extremely important to bring hats, sunglasses and a bottle of water.
• At present and on a temporary basis, the island has no form of shelter; consequently waterproof clothing is also required in case of unsettled weather.
• While tracks are maintained to remain practicable, you will disembark at a Sensitive Natural Area. It is therefore advisable to wear suitable footwear (walking boots or trainers...).
• The Ȋle Nouvelle is a natural area made up of vast wetland areas so anti-mosquito lotions may prove useful.
• The tour lasts between 2 and 2½ hours and participants may cover up to 2.5 km (the conditions of the tour may not be suitable for young children...)
• The Ȋle Nouvelle is not easily accessible for persons of reduced mobility.

General rules of the Ȋle Nouvelle

Please ensure you respect these rules, some of which are of particular relevance to visitors:

• No litter (from picnics or other activities) should be left on the island; please ensure you bring it with you when you return to the departure point.
• Please do not disturb the vegetation (flowers, fruit, mushrooms...).
• The lighting of fires is prohibited on the island, including cigarettes.
• Camping on the island is not permitted.
• Dogs are not permitted on the island, please leave dogs on the boat in the event that you have brought a dog with you.
• All water sports are prohibited (rowing boats, yachts, speed boats...)
• Bathing is not permitted in the wetland areas of the island.
• Motor vehicles are prohibited excluding vehicles used for site management.
• Hunting and fishing are prohibited.