The Nérac Ponds

The Nérac Ponds, located in Altenach and Saint-Ulrich in the Sundgau region, consist of five ponds created in the 17th century. Once used for various activities, they have regained remarkable naturalness after being acquired by the Haut-Rhin General Council in the 1990s. Classified as Natura 2000 and part of Alsace's Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS) network, this site is a biodiversity haven. It hosts over 100 bird species, including rare ones like the Eurasian penduline tit, the osprey, and the common crane. To facilitate observation, an untreated wooden observatory was installed on a dam between two ponds, offering a privileged view of the local fauna and flora. Up to 140 bird species can be seen here. A trail guide, available at the Sundgau Nature House, offers a 2 to 2.5-hour walk to explore this preserved natural site.