The Marais d’Orx, a vast wetland nestling in the heart of the Landes de Gascogne, has had a rich history since its creation some three million years ago.

In the 19th century, ambitious drainage projects were undertaken to drain part of the marsh and reclaim new farmland. It was Napoleon I who, on a visit to Labenne, decided to drain the marsh. Napoleon III continued the work, building some thirty farmhouses, including the Domaine de l’Isle. It would take many years to achieve this, and the site became one of the largest agricultural and corn-growing estates in France. But this was without counting on the resilience of this unique ecosystem, reminding us of the need to preserve this fragile natural balance. Today, water has reclaimed its rightful place.

Today, the Marais d’Orx is recognized for its exceptional ecological value. In 1989, the Conservatoire du Littoral acquired 1,000 hectares to restore it as a wetland, with the help of WWF. It was the largest project ever carried out in France at the time. In 1995, the site was classified as a national nature reserve and has since been the subject of numerous protection and sustainable management measures. The people of Orx, aware of the natural heritage on their doorstep, are actively involved in its preservation and enhancement.

Educational trails, ornithological observatories and nature events enable visitors to discover the riches of the Marais d’Orx. Its history illustrates the complex and evolving relationship between man and his environment, a precious heritage to be passed on to future generations.