Observation des oiseaux à la confluence
Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave
The confluence and leisure centre of the Tarn and Garonne rivers
A 100% nature destination, the confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers offers a break from the past in every season.
This 400-hectare stretch of water is home to a leisure centre and the largest bird sanctuary in the south of France. The leisure centre offers a multitude ofoutdoor and water-basedactivities, ideal for individuals, families or groups.
The confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers
It's here, at Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave, that the river Tarn flows from Montauban and Moissac into the Garonne. This 100% natural site is designed for sports, fun and education, and invites you to take the time to observe, breathe and enjoy.
In the 1970s, the confluence underwent a major upheaval with the construction of a dam at Malause. Islets were formed and quickly became an essential sanctuary for the migration of hundreds of birds every year. Today, these lands are a haven for migratory and sedentary birds, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle for nature lovers.
The best spot to admire the confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers is the viewpoint at Boudou!
La plus grande réserve ornithologique du sud de la France
Une partie du plan d’eau est protégée en tant que réserve ornithologique, la plus grande du sud de la France. Ici, on prend juste le temps d’admirer et écouter des oiseaux migrateurs et sédentaires dans leur habitat naturel.
L'observatoire ornithologique, situé au bord de la Garonne, est accessible via un sentier d’observation depuis la base de loisirs. Depuis l’observatoire on peut admirer l'Île aux Oiseaux, classée zone Natura 2000. Chaque année, entre 160 et 200 espèces d’oiseaux font une halte sur le plan d’eau pendant leur migration, trouvant ici toute la nourriture dont ils ont besoin et une parfaite tranquillité.
Le site est géré par la Société des Sciences Naturelles de Tarn Et Garonne.
Le saviez- vous ?
Pendant, l’été on vous propose des visites guidées à vélo mêlant nature avec le site de la confluence, et patrimoine culturel avec la découverte du village de Saint Nicolas de la Grave.
The Tarn and Garonne leisure centre
The Tarn and Garonne leisure centre boasts the largest stretch of water in the eastern part of the Midi Toulousain region.
This exceptional 19-hectare natural site is dedicated to leisure and sports activities.
Outdoor activities all year round
At the entrance to the leisure park is a large green park. Here, locals and holidaymakers alike can enjoy friendly moments all year round: children have fun on the playgrounds, and families gather around the picnic tables.
When it comes to water sports, you can try your hand at a wide range of water sports such as canoeing, pedalos, sailing and rowing, while discovering the local flora and fauna. Water-skiing and jet-skiing are not permitted. The slipway is freely accessible.
Are you more of a land lover? Stroll along the footpaths, watch the birds in the bird sanctuary, enjoy the peaceful fishing spots, then get on your bike and ride along the banks of the Canal des deux mers under the shade of the plane trees on the Vélo Voie Verte.
There's also a nature trail so you can enjoy this beautiful environment at any time of year.
For safety reasons, swimming in the lake is prohibited. There are, however, mobile pools for swimming lessons in July and August.
Fishing
The confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. You can fish for catfish, carp and pike-perch.
Experts will love the night carp fishing, and the large boat ramp provides easy access to the water. There's also a specially-designed course for families, so everyone can enjoy the fishing.
During the summer, free events are organised by the local fishing association and the leisure centre staff, providing an excellent opportunity to discover this activity in a friendly and rewarding setting.
Summer activities and entertainment
In July and August, the leisure centre offers water sports equipment and bike hire. Activities include sailing, canoeing, paddle boarding, boat trips, archery, cycling, fishing (pass required), and the bird sanctuary in partnership with the Society of Natural Sciences.
During the summer, the leisure centre offers free themed evenings called "Les jeudis de la Base": concerts, shows, astronomy, etc. A food-truck is present every Thursday.
The leisure centre has a refreshment stand open every afternoon in July and August.
The Confluence campsite and motorhome park
The leisure centre has a motorhome park and a 2-star campsite with the "Accueil vélo" and "Hébergement pêche" labels.
Whether you prefer tents or camping pitches, everything is provided for you to enjoy a superb stay in the heart of nature at the Confluence campsite.
Immerse yourself in a natural, sporty and family-friendly setting on the banks of the Garonne!
Groups and schools
The leisure centre welcomes groups for a day or longer stay, including sports clubs, leisure centres, camps, associations and seminars. Approved by the French Ministry of Education and Jeunesse et Sports, it is also open to schools and leisure centres.
Open all year round, the leisure centre has facilities for groups, collective accommodation and camping sites.
Upcoming visits and events:
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