On the northern shore of the Étang Vieux, the 35 m² Observatoire ornithologique des étangs de Saclay rises from the reeds. The structure stands on stilts.
Those who choose Saclay as a travel destination may want to rent a holiday apartment.
Nature
The Étangs de Saclay are designated as a type 1 continental ZNIEFF. Since the beginning of the 20th century, more than 260 bird species have been recorded there.
The Observatoire ornithologique des étangs de Saclay is located in an area classified as a Réserve Naturelle Conventionnelle, which is used by migratory birds and breeding bird species. The observatory is accessible only with prior reservation.
History and Architectural Heritage
The Église Saint-Germain was built in the 12th century by monks who brought the land under cultivation, replacing a chapel founded by the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris. The church contains a Renaissance holy-water stoup and a large wooden crucifix dating from the mid-16th century.
The Tour Saint-Germain marks the edge of Saclay’s old Bourg. It has a corner tower that may have been built in the 16th century.
A house with a projecting tower on Rue de la Tour-Saint-Germain dates from the 15th or 16th century. It is classified as noteworthy because of its architectural and picturesque interest.
The Parcours historique dans Saclay uses 18 markers to identify buildings that are significant to the town’s history.
The Pavillon du Roi has been classified as a Monument historique since a decree dated 31 October 1912. Inside, there are valves that regulate the water flow between the Étang Neuf and the Étang Vieux.
The Ferme du Colombier is an example, built in the 17th century, of the agricultural farms that shaped the fertile Plateau de Saclay.
Trails
The GR de Pays Ceinture verte de l’Ile de France passes through the Bourg of Saclay and connects Petit-Jouy with Vauhallan, also passing by the Ferme d’Orsigny.
