Saint-Côme: Nature and Cultural Heritage

Lac de la Prade lies within the territory of the municipalities of Bazas, Saint-Côme and Gajac. For a trip focused on nature and culture, Saint-Côme offers two distinct points of interest: the lake and Église Saint-Côme, with its historic painting and eventful building history. The lake is an artificial reservoir covering 51 hectares and lies within a contiguous property spanning 80 hectares. The figures refer to different areas: 51 hectares for the lake and 80 hectares for the contiguous property.

Nature at Lac de la Prade

In 2019, Lac de la Prade was designated an Espace Naturel Sensible (ENS). The lake and its shores are also part of the “Réseau hydrographique du Beuve” Natura 2000 site. These designations complement one another: the ENS designation dates to 2019, while the Natura 2000 site includes the lake and its shores.

The protected bird sanctuary at the lake is home to grey herons and great crested grebes; when the birds can be seen may vary by season. The slopes around the lake also feature priority dry grassland habitats with orchids. A marked footpath and educational facilities make it easier to observe and discover the species recorded there. Temporary environmental restrictions may limit visits.

Fishing platforms and picnic tables are available by the lake; temporary closures may affect their use. Free events led by specialists and knowledgeable local enthusiasts are offered from April to October. If you would like to plan your visit around an event, check the specific dates in advance: dates and activities may change.

Route to the lake

The “De Bazas au Lac de la Prade” route begins with a section of around 1 km along the Beuve. A continuation of the path then runs for several kilometres to Lac de la Prade. At the lake, the route follows the right-hand side, crosses a wooden bridge and climbs to an observation tower. The route is currently marked as temporarily closed. Check whether it has reopened before setting out.

Art and architectural history of Église Saint-Côme

Église Saint-Côme houses the 18th-century painting “Saint Côme et saint Damien au pied de la croix.” It is listed as a protected movable cultural object; the listing was made on 3 June 2005. The two dates refer to different things: the 18th century is when the painting was created, while 2005 is the year it was listed.

The architectural history of Église de Saint-Côme is also marked by repeated interventions. The church was damaged or destroyed on several occasions: in the 10th century, during the Hundred Years’ War, in 1577 and during the Revolutionary period. It was rebuilt or altered after each of these events. Thus, Saint-Côme offers two distinct cultural and historical points of interest: a specific work of art and the story of a church building that has undergone repeated changes.

Saint-Côme for your hotel search

If one of these topics is more important to your trip, use it as a starting point for searching for hotels in Saint-Côme.

Discover more destinations: Grayan-Et-L'hôpital, Sablons, Cénac, Cabanac-Et-Villagrains, Bassens, Pugnac, Saint-Laurent-Du-Bois, Soussac.

For the broader travel guide: Gironde.