The history of salt

The Pesquiers pond covers almost 550 hectares. More than half of its surface area has been converted into salt marshes, the Salins d’Hyèresoperated by the “Compagnie des Salins du Midi”, produced up to 30,000 tons of salt a year until 1995. Recognized as one of the most remarkable natural areas on the Var coast, the Hyères salt flats are fragile natural spaces that provide a stopover for migratory birds and shelter for sedentary ones.

Hyères continued to harvest salt in ancient times until 1995. Exported throughout Europe, salt, a precious commodity, made the town’s fortune.

This visit to the heart of the Pesquiers marshes, now a bird sanctuary, tells the story of the saunier’s trade, its traditions and its legends.

Esprit Parc National © tour