15 must-see places in the Landes to discover
Situated in south-west France, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gascony region, the Landes offers a unique territory where fine sandy beaches, majestic pine forests and peaceful lakes meet. This département of New Aquitaine has plenty to offer: from seaside resorts renowned for their surfing to spa towns and authentic villages, the Landes promises a holiday rich in discovery. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a nature lover, an epicurean or simply a traveller looking to relax, this generous territory is sure to win you over. Here is our selection of the 15 must-do things to do in the Landes for an unforgettable stay.
Also in the Landes guide :
- Visit Mont-de-Marsan: the town of three rivers
- 9 walks around Biarritz on the Basque coast
- Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Must-sees and must-dos
- 12 must-sees in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
- 12 waterfalls in Occitanie where you can swim in the heart of nature
- 15 not-to-be-missed excursions around Bordeaux
- The 10 most beautiful walks in Lot-et-Garonne
1. Surf the legendary spots of Hossegor
The surfing capital of Europe, Hossegor attracts surfing fans from all over the world every year. This seaside resort in the Landes is famous for its powerful, consistent waves, particularly on La Gravière beach, which hosts international competitions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find plenty of surf schools to help you learn or perfect your technique.
As well as the waves, Hossegor has a wonderful marine lake where you can paddle, kayak or simply swim in calm, safe water. The town also has a lively centre with surf shops, restaurants and authentic markets. The relaxed atmosphere and typical 1930s architecture make Hossegor an unmissable destination on a holiday in the Landes.
2. Explore Capbreton and its unique underwater canyon
Located north of Bayonne, Capbreton stands out for its authenticity and exceptional maritime heritage. The town has the only harbour in the Landes and is home to a rare geological phenomenon: the Gouf de Capbreton, an underwater canyon that reaches a depth of 3,000 metres just a stone’s throw from the shore. This particular feature is a delight for divers and fishermen alike.
Don’t miss a walk along the estacade, this emblematic 189-metre-long jetty that juts out into the ocean and offers spectacular views of the waves and coastline. The Capbreton fish market, held every morning, offers a chance to discover local fish products in a friendly atmosphere. The narrow streets of the town centre, lined with traditional Landes houses and shops, invite you to take a stroll.
3. Rejuvenate at the Dax thermal baths
Dax is France’s leading spa destination, welcoming almost 60,000 people every year to enjoy the benefits of its thermal waters and its famous peloid, a mud with exceptional therapeutic properties. The town boasts around fifteen spa establishments offering accredited rheumatology and phlebology cures, as well as wellness breaks for relaxation.
As well as its spa facilities, Dax is well worth a visit for its remarkable architectural heritage. The cathedral of Notre-Dame, the Gallo-Roman ramparts, the hot fountain of La Nèhe and the arenas where the famous Landes races and férias are held bear witness to the city’s rich history. The banks of the River Adour also offer some great walks to discover this endearing spa town, where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously.
4. Discover Biscarrosse and its three lakes
Biscarrosse’s privileged location between the ocean and the lakes is a real attraction. This seaside resort in the Landes region offers the best of both worlds: on one side, the waves of the Atlantic, perfect for surfing and water sports, and on the other, three magnificent lakes (Biscarrosse, Cazaux and Parentis) with calm waters ideal for family bathing, paddle-boarding, pedal-boating or sailing.
The town also boasts a rich heritage linked to the aviation industry, with a museum dedicated to this aeronautical epic. Golf enthusiasts will love the quality courses nestling in the heart of the pine forest. Biscarrosse is classified as a 4-star town in bloom and offers numerous hiking and cycling trails to discover the varied landscapes of this part of the Landes. With its mix of sports, nature and relaxation, Biscarrosse is the perfect destination for an active family holiday.
5. Pedal along Landes’ 600km of cycle paths
Les Landes is a cyclist’s paradise, with over 600 kilometres of cycle paths throughout the département. These routes offer a whole new way of discovering the Landes region, winding through majestic pine forests, along sandy beaches, beside peaceful lakes or through typical villages.
The famous Vélodyssée crosses the Landes from north to south and is one of the most beautiful cycle routes in Europe. Whether it’s a simple stroll or a multi-day tour, cycling has become much more than just a means of getting around in the Landes: it’s become a way of life. Numerous rental companies offer classic or electric bikes, and accommodation has been adapted to welcome cycle tourists. Get on your bike and let the scents of pine and ocean carry you along!
6. Marvel at Seignosse, between forest and ocean
Seignosse embodies the very essence of the Landes region: unspoilt nature where the pine forest meets the Atlantic Ocean. The town boasts six kilometres of unspoilt beaches that are among the most beautiful on the Landes coast, with surf spots renowned the world over. Every September, the Bourdaines beach plays host to a stage of the world surfing championships.
As well as surfing, Seignosse offers an unspoilt area where maritime pines and oaks form a green setting protected from the sea spray by the dunes. The White and Black ponds add a touch of serenity to this already enchanting landscape. In summer, the song of the cicadas and the scent of pine needles create a unique Mediterranean atmosphere. Golf enthusiasts will love the internationally renowned courses nestling in the heart of this bountiful natural setting. Seignosse is an ideal destination for those seeking authenticity and pure nature.
7. Riding on the beaches of the Landes
Galloping along a sandy beach, hair blowing in the wind and sea spray on your face: this magical experience is available everywhere in the Landes. The department boasts a number of riding schools and stud farms offering horse rides to suit all levels, from beginner to experienced rider.
The immense beaches of the Atlantic coast provide an exceptional backdrop for these equestrian rides, as do the forest paths that wind through the pine forest. Some centres even offer first rides in the ocean, an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. In addition to the rides, several centres organise horse-riding courses or multi-day excursions to discover the Landes in a different way. Horse-riding in the Landes is a guarantee of privileged moments in communion with nature and these noble animals.
8. Diving into the heart of the Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park
Covering almost a million hectares, the Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park is the largest forest massif in Western Europe. This exceptional natural area is home to remarkable biodiversity and offers a fantastic playground for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Numerous hiking, horse-riding and mountain-biking trails allow you to explore this unique forest, dominated by maritime pines planted in the 19th century to reclaim marshland. The Marquèze ecomuseum, a genuine reconstructed Landes village, brings to life the local habitat and traditions before the forest was planted. Access is by historic train through the pine forest, adding to the charm of the visit. The park is also home to numerous waterways, lagoons and wetlands, all of which are ecosystems waiting to be discovered.
9. Experience the atmosphere of the Landes férias
The férias are deeply rooted in the DNA of the Landes, with almost 800 days of festivities a year in the département! The most famous, the Dax féria, which takes place around 15 August, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year from all over France and beyond. For five days, the town is alive with bandas, bodegas, Landes races and an incomparable festive atmosphere.
But the férias are not confined to Dax: from Mont-de-Marsan to Aire-sur-l’Adour, via Hagetmau and Pomarez, every village in the Landes region celebrates its traditions throughout the summer. The traditional spectacle of these festivities is the Course Landaise, in which the bull rider takes on the cow in a display of agility and courage. Don’t forget your red scarf and white shirt to get in on the action! The Landes férias are a unique opportunity to discover the hospitality, conviviality and art of living of the Gascony region.
10. Savour the gastronomy and local produce of the Landes region
The Landes is a land of gastronomy renowned throughout France. The leading producer of foie gras and the inventor of duck breast, the department has also seen the rise of star chefs such as Michel Guérard and Alain Ducasse, who have made the most of the exceptional products of the Landes region.
The region’s must-try specialities include Saint-Sever chicken, Chalosse beef and asparagus from the Sables des Landes, not forgetting Tursan wines, Floc de Gascogne and the famous Armagnac. Traditional markets, such as those in Saint-Sever and Mont-de-Marsan, provide an opportunity to meet producers and taste these exceptional products. Many farms also offer tours and tastings to discover the secrets of foie gras and Armagnac production. Landes gastronomy is the art of living well and sharing around a generous table.
11. Play golf on exceptional courses
The sandy soils of the Landes make it a favourite destination for golfers. The département boasts a dozen top-quality golf courses, including three internationally renowned courses at Moliets, Hossegor and Seignosse. The oceanic climate means you can play all year round in optimum conditions.
Moliets is one of the world’s top 100 golf courses, welcoming golf enthusiasts to an exceptional setting between the pines and the ocean. Its 18-hole course stretches right down to the beach, offering spectacular views over the Atlantic. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, the golf courses in the Landes region offer a range of adapted formulas, lessons with professionals and modern facilities. Playing golf in the Landes combines sport and contemplation in a natural environment where pine forests, dunes and the ocean meet.
12. Explore Soustons, the town of five lakes
Nicknamed “l’Isla verde” (the green island), Soustons boasts an exceptional natural setting with its five lakes nestling in the heart of the Landes forest. These stretches of water offer an ideal playground for a wide range of water sports: paddle-boarding, canoeing, pedal-boating, sailing or fishing in a peaceful, unspoilt landscape.
The famous pontoon bridge on Lac d’Azur, 50 metres long, juts out over the water and offers a magical view, particularly at sunset. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the many footpaths winding around the lakes and through the forest. There is also a vast network of cycle paths and greenways for exploring the area by bike. Soustons is only a few kilometres from the ocean, so you can enjoy both the tranquillity of the lakes and the excitement of the beaches. This diversity makes Soustons the perfect destination for a successful family holiday.
13. Discover Mont-de-Marsan, capital of the Landes region
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Mont-de-Marsan on foot and on your own
Prefecture of the Landes department, Mont-de-Marsan lies at the confluence of the Douze and Midou rivers, which form the Midouze. Although famous for its férias, the town has a remarkable architectural and cultural heritage that is well worth a visit. The historic centre, with its arcaded houses and cobbled streets, is an inviting place to stroll. Let the Navaway audioguide tour of Mont-de-Marsan be your guide as it reveals all the secrets of this city of three rivers.
The Musée Despiau-Wlérick, housed in a former medieval keep, exhibits a large collection of sculptures. Every three years, Mont-de-Marsan organises the “Mont de Marsan Sculptures” event, which transforms the town into an open-air art gallery with contemporary installations. The banks of the Midouze offer pleasant shady walks, while the Parc Jean Rameau is a haven of greenery right in the heart of the town. To visit Mont-de-Marsan is to discover a dynamic town that combines tradition and modernity, art and heritage.
14. Watching grey cranes at the Arjuzanx reserve
The Arjuzanx national nature reserve, which has been listed since 2022, covers more than 2,200 hectares of former brown coal mining area that has been converted into a sanctuary for biodiversity. Every winter, from November to March, the site welcomes tens of thousands of grey cranes from northern Europe to spend the winter in ideal conditions.
There are special observatories where you can watch the spectacular ballet of these large migratory birds as they take off in the morning or return at dusk. Guided tours are organised to observe this exceptional natural phenomenon in a unique winter atmosphere. Outside the crane season, the reserve remains a favourite place for walks, with its lakes, moors, meadows and varied fauna (deer, wild boar, European cistudes). Arjuzanx is a testament to nature’s ability to reclaim its rights, and a successful example of the conversion of an industrial site into a protected natural area.
15. Boat trip down the Huchet stream
The Courant d’Huchet, classified as a nature reserve, is one of the last wild rivers on the French Atlantic coast. This river links the Etang de Léon to the ocean over some 10 kilometres through a subtropical gallery forest landscape that is absolutely unique in France, reminiscent of the Amazon in its lushness.
To discover the Huchet stream, you must take a traditional boat guided by a boatman who will share his knowledge of this exceptional natural environment. Along the way, you’ll discover dense, varied vegetation (tree ferns, lianas, bamboo), a wealth of birdlife and a mysterious atmosphere that leaves no one indifferent. This walk, which lasts around two hours, allows you to switch off completely and immerse yourself in an unspoilt natural setting. The Currents d’Huchet is one of the natural wonders of the Landes, a magical place that absolutely deserves a visit during a stay in the département.
In conclusion, the Landes offers an extraordinary diversity to suit everyone: sports enthusiasts will love the surf spots, miles of cycle paths and golf courses, while nature lovers will delight in the forests, lakes, nature reserves and miles of unspoilt beaches. Epicureans will not be outdone by the rich gastronomy of the Landes region, and those in search of relaxation will find what they’re looking for in the spas or simply by the lake. The Landes is also a land of living traditions, with its férias, Landes races and Gascon art of living. Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a longer holiday, this generous and authentic region will win you over with its gentle way of life and rich landscapes. Don’t hesitate to discover Mont-de-Marsan with the Navaway audioguide tour to learn more about the capital of the Landes. The Landes region is waiting to offer you unforgettable memories to the rhythm of the Atlantic waves and the song of the pine trees.
Frequently asked questions about Landes
When is the best time to visit the Landes?
The best period depends on your expectations. Summer (July-August) offers an ideal climate for enjoying the beaches and the ocean, but it is also the busiest period. Spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) are excellent alternatives, with pleasant weather, fewer people and more attractive prices. Winter is perfect for spa treatments in Dax and for watching sandhill cranes in Arjuzanx.
Are the Landes ideal for family holidays?
Absolutely! The Landes is the perfect destination for families. The lakes offer safe bathing areas for children, the cycle paths offer rides suitable for all ages, and there are plenty of activities on offer: water parks, surf schools, horse riding, adventure parks. Supervised beaches and numerous family campsites make the Landes an ideal destination for holidays with children.
Is it safe to swim in the Landes lakes?
Yes, the many lakes in the Landes (Biscarrosse, Soustons, Léon, Cazaux, Parentis) offer supervised swimming areas in summer. The water is generally warmer than in the ocean and the swimming is calmer, which is particularly popular with families with young children. The lakes are also ideal for a wide range of water sports, including paddling, canoeing and sailing.
What are the best surf spots in the Landes?
The Landes region has some of the best surf spots in Europe. Hossegor (beaches of La Gravière, Les Culs Nus, La Nord) is the absolute benchmark, with world-class waves. Seignosse (plage des Bourdaines, des Estagnots) hosts international competitions. Capbreton, Vieux-Boucau, Moliets and Mimizan also offer excellent conditions for all levels. Numerous surf schools offer beginners’ courses throughout the year.
What can you do in the Landes when it rains?
Even in the rain, there’s plenty to do in the Landes! Take the opportunity to visit the museums (hydraviation museum in Biscarrosse, Despiau-Wlérick museum in Mont-de-Marsan, ecomuseum in Marquèze), discover the thermal baths and wellness centres in Dax, visit the Armagnac wineries, go shopping in Hossegor or Capbreton, or relax in one of the many casinos along the coast. The covered markets are also perfect for discovering local produce under cover.
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