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The Mousterlin Marsh a natural treasure between land and sea

Nestling between ocean and countryside, the Mousterlin marsh is an exceptional 120-hectare natural area.

To the south of Fouesnant-les Glénan, this protected natural site, shaped by the meeting of fresh and salt water, is home to remarkable biodiversity. A haven for wildlife, it also attracts walkers and nature lovers in search of a diversity of animal and plant species, some of which are rare or endangered.

The Mousterlin Marsh A rich and fragile ecosystem

Situated to the east of the Pointe de Mousterlin, behind the Cleut Rouz and Kerambigorn dunes, the “Marais de Mousterlin” site is an emblematic part of Fouesnant-les Glénan. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the marsh is one of the richest ecosystems on the Breton Riviera, with a variety of natural habitats. There is an impressive diversity of natural environments: reed beds, wet meadows, dunes, salt meadows, ponds, woodland, etc. The marsh is accessible all year round thanks to a number of signposted footpaths. An easy, well-maintained walk will allow you to explore the site gently, on foot or by bike.

France, Finistere (29), Fouesnant, the Mousterlin marshesFrance, Finistere (29), Fouesnant, the Mousterlin marshes
©France, Finistere (29), Fouesnant, the Mousterlin marshes
Get out your binoculars and cameras!

The marshes offer a unique and changing light at all times of year, perfect for nature photography. In spring, in the early hours of the morning, the fauna awakens: an ideal time to observe and listen to the songs of the birds.

Remarkable flora

The reed beds and rushes are home to species such as marsh iris, purple loosestrife and water mint. The dunes are home to oyat grass, sea panicum, dune thistle and sand immortelle.

A paradise for birds

The marsh is a favourite spot for birdwatchers, whether amateurs or experts. Its ecological richness attracts many species of birds, which can be seen from the observatories throughout the seasons.

Two discreet and accessible wooden observatories allow you to admire the wildlife without disturbing it. Grab your binoculars, be patient… and let the magic happen!

A little history the origins

Originally, the marsh was connected to the ocean, as is the White Sea lagoon. Once an area of grazing and agricultural production, the marsh has long been shaped by man. It was in the 1950s that a land consolidation project threatened to profoundly alter the site.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, dykes and canals were built to remove the marsh from the sea in order to dry it out and increase agricultural land. This process of draining the coastal marshes is known as polderisation. Polders were created for human activities (ports, agriculture, etc.). There are several such polders on the Breton coast, including the Combrit polder in the Bigouden region and the Brest polder.

Thanks to the efforts of naturalists and local residents, the area was finally preserved and protected. Today, it is part of the Natura 2000 network, which guarantees sustainable management of its environments.

The Cleut-Rouz and Kerambigorn dunes

Between the Pointe de Mousterlin and the Pointe de Beg-Meil, the dune system forms a natural boundary between the Mousterlin marsh and the sea. The natural channels that once divided the dunes, bringing salt water to the marsh, have disappeared over time as the sand has shifted. The dunes now form a continuous line of sand.

The Mousterlin marsh Locate

Responsible visit Our advice

The main access to the Marais de Mousterlin is via the route de Mousterlin. Car parks are available at the entrance to the site.

Times: Free access all year round, preferably during the day.
Access by bike: Via the Véloroute Littorale (V45).
Accessibility: Partially accessible to people with reduced mobility (certain sections of the trail).
Guided tours: Organised from time to time by the Tourist Office and local associations.
Don’t forget: Closed shoes, binoculars, a water bottle and a bit of curiosity are all you need for a great adventure in the heart of the marsh.

Keep to the marked paths to avoid disturbing the flora and fauna.
Listen to nature in silence: speak softly so as not to frighten the birds.
Don’t pick or collect anything (flowers, plants, insects, branches, etc.).
Keep your dog on a lead.
Take your rubbish home: there is no on-site rubbish collection service.
Preferably cycle or walk to access the site.