The Bird and Nature Festival 2026 in the Baie de Somme: A Unique Spring Experience Near Calais
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit northern France, and the Festival de l’Oiseau et de la Nature is one of the region’s most inspiring events. The 35th edition of the festival will take place from 18 to 26 April 2026 in the spectacular Baie de Somme, just a short drive from Calais.
This renowned festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of wildlife through nature walks, exhibitions, photography, films and outdoor experiences. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer or simply looking for a refreshing break by the sea, the festival offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the wild landscapes of northern France.
A Celebration of Nature in the Baie de Somme
The Baie de Somme is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world and is famous for its rich biodiversity. Each spring, the Bird and Nature Festival invites visitors to immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem between land and sea.
The 2026 edition will feature more than 100 nature activities including guided birdwatching walks, wildlife photography workshops, exhibitions, films and family activities across the region.
Participants can explore marshes, dunes, forests and coastal landscapes while learning from passionate naturalist guides.
Highlights of the 2026 Festival
- Guided birdwatching walks in nature reserves
- Wildlife photography exhibitions and competitions
- Outdoor activities for families and nature enthusiasts
- Nature documentaries and conferences
- Educational workshops about ecosystems and biodiversity
The festival will officially open on Saturday 18 April in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme with a special evening celebrating the launch of this 35th edition, including the International Wildlife Photo Awards and a screening of the film “Des tortues, des baleines et des hommes” accompanied by live music.
Nature Hotspots to Discover During the Festival
Maison de la Baie de Somme
The Maison de la Baie is one of the best places to start your visit. Through immersive exhibitions and interactive displays, visitors can discover the ecosystems of the bay, learn about migratory birds and understand how scientists study wildlife such as seals without disturbing them.
Parc du Marquenterre
Located at the heart of the Baie de Somme Nature Reserve, the Parc du Marquenterre is one of the most famous birdwatching sites in France. Its 200 hectares of marshes, dunes and reed beds attract hundreds of bird species throughout the year.
Visitors can explore several walking trails with observation points where nature guides help identify birds and explain their behaviour.
Grand-Laviers Bird Reserve
Close to Abbeville, the Grand-Laviers reserve offers another fantastic opportunity to observe both migratory and resident bird species. The reserve features walking paths, observation hides and educational panels for visitors of all ages.
Outdoor Activities and Nature Experiences
The festival programme includes a wide range of nature outings such as:
- Birdwatching at sunrise or sunset
- Seal watching along the coast
- Guided walks through forests and marshlands
- Nature canoe trips and coastal exploration
- Workshops on edible wild plants and biodiversity
With activities ranging from easy family walks to more specialised nature excursions, the festival offers something for everyone.
Stop at Calais Vins or Olivier Vins on Your Way Back to the UK
If you are visiting the Bird and Nature Festival in the Baie de Somme, it is well worth stopping in Calais before returning to the UK.
Located just minutes from the ferry port and the Channel Tunnel, Calais Vins and Olivier Vins offer one of the largest selections of French wines in northern France. Our wine experts will be happy to help you choose the perfect bottles to take home.
British visitors can also benefit from VAT refunds on wine purchases, making it an excellent opportunity to save money compared to UK prices.
After a day immersed in nature along the stunning Baie de Somme, why not complete your trip with a stop to discover some fantastic French wines before heading back across the Channel?
Both stores are located less than 5 minutes from the ferry port and the Eurotunnel terminal.
For the full programme and festival activities, visit the official website:
https://www.festival-oiseau-nature.com