Abstract: The liquefaction method provides fractionation of the natural gas with ethane recycle in order to enhance propane recovery and to increase the critical pressure of the gas to be liquefied. The natural gas is partly liquefied by cooling in E1, then separated in fractionating column 2 into a methane-rich stream and a stream rich in hydrocarbons heavier than methane. The methane-rich stream is partly liquefied in 3, then the condensates separated in drum 4 are recycled to the top of column 2 through line 7. The gas fraction from drum 4 is liquefied in exchanger E2 to produce the liquefied natural gas. The stream rich in hydrocarbons heavier than methane is separated in the deethanizer into an ethane-enriched fraction and heavier hydrocarbons. According to the invention, the ethane-enriched fraction is at least partly liquefied, then part of the liquefied ethane is recycled to separating drum 4 or reflux line 7.