Tour
2,1 km
1h
23 audios
Text version
Mont-de-Marsan, prefecture of the Landes department since 1790, shows that venturing into the countryside is far from tedious. As soon as you get here, you’ll find yourself in a truly magical setting, where history and nature blend together. Prepare to be transported back to medieval times as you stroll past the Lacataye Donjon and Romanesque houses. Ready to trade in knights and castles for a bit of peace and quiet? The city’s three famous rivers are just the thing. Next thing you know, the city’s cultural and artistic attractions will welcome you with open arms. And if, by any chance, you’re craving something a little more traditional and lively, the Madeleine Festival has got you covered. With all this time and space travel, you’re probably getting hungry. Don’t miss the Saint-Roch Square market, if you have a craving for its fresh, local products. All this to say that this little town is a hidden gem, perfect for a relaxing getaway in the French countryside.
Hovering above the water, “La Plongeuse” is probably Mont-de-Marsan's most famous statue. And trust me when I say that this city knows a thing or two about this artistic discipline! In 2016, the city held its tenth annual “Mont-de-Marsan Sculptures” festival, Read more
“Le Molière” Municipal Theatre is the beating heart of Mont-de-Marsan's cultural scene. From classical concerts to dramatic plays, it's the go-to place for entertainment. The first cultural and musical performances were staged in a room in the Barnabites convent, Read more
The Madeleine Church before you is the largest religious building in the city. When Mont-de-Marsan was founded around the 12th century, it chose Saint Mary Magdalene, an important figure in the history of Christianity, as its patron saint. Read more
As we've seen, the past is ever-present along the riverbanks. Yet if we venture a little further, we'll find that Mont-de-Marsan has a more modern side. Take Victor Hugo Street, for example – you've been on it for a few seconds now. Read more
The Romanesque houses of Mont-de-Marsan are true medieval gems, built alongside the city walls and the Lacataye Keep. Take a look at the one in front of you, and you'll quickly see why. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, Read more
Located in a stunning architectural setting, the Despiau-Wlérick museum to your left is truly exceptional, as it is the only cultural venue in France dedicated to figurative art. It's an artistic style that captures objects and human forms in all their intricate detail. Read more
Mont-de-Marsan may have its share of historical treasures, but none quite as captivating as the Lacataye Keep. Believe it or not, the city's most famous landmark was once two Romanesque houses joined together to form a fortified manor. Read more
With the ancient ramparts on your left, it's easy to imagine Mont-de-Marsan's medieval past. Founded in 1133 by Viscount Pierre de Marsan, the city was the seat of his lordship. As such, it had a major defensive role to play. Read more
Découvrez Mont-de-Marsan avec l’application navaway®
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
8 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Beyond its historical charm and beautiful old buildings, Mont-de-Marsan also boasts a host of green spaces of immense natural beauty. It would be a real shame not to explore them.
First up, there’s the Midouze River right in the city center. Take a leisurely stroll along the towpath or walk the fitness trail connecting Mont-de-Marsan and Tartas (about 30 km away) and admire the elegant 19th-century bourgeois houses along the way. If you’re looking for something different, you can also rent a boat or canoe-kayak at the local tourist office and paddle down the river. Now, if you’re unsure about going solo, you can always let an experienced guide do the paddling. One thing’s for sure: the old gabarre route is full of surprises!
Just a stone’s throw from Victor Hugo Street, you’ll find the vast Jean Rameau Park, a haven for nature lovers. Named after a renowned local poet and novelist of the last century, this 6-hectare green space is home to over 80 tree species, a Japanese garden, a fern garden, a hydrangea garden, and a collection of interesting sculptures. Here’s your chance to discover new species of plants other than the region’s famous pines.
For a fun family outing, visit the Nahuques Animal Park, just a 7-minute drive from the city center. Come explore this 4-hectare wooded park and play in the playgrounds, ride ponies and meet semi-captive like llamas, fallow deer, emus, cows, Patagonian hares, dwarf goats and hundreds of birds. It’s really worth the detour!
Now, if you’re interested in military aviation, the Rozanoff Museum at Air Base 118 is a must-see, again just a 7-minute drive from the city center. Explore exhibits showcasing aircraft, uniforms, and other artifacts related to the history of the French and local Air Force.
Mont-de-Marsan is also the perfect starting point to explore the wider Landes region. There are plenty of beautiful places to explore within a 17 to 40 km radius of Mont-de-Marsan. First up, there’s the Marquèze Ecomuseum and, of course, the Landes Forest. The latter is just a fifteen-minute drive from Mont-de-Marsan. Behind those seemingly endless rows of maritime pines, awaits a world of hidden wonders. Up to you to discover it! You can also venture into ancestral Gascon lands in the Chalosse and Landes d’Armagnac regions and visit Saint-Sever, Hagetmau, Brassempouy and Labastide d’Armagnac. Their history and gastronomy are sure to impress!
You can also take a day trip to the charming city of Pau in the neighboring Béarn region. It’s an hour and twenty minute drive from Mont-de-Marsan and you’ll find the relevant audioguide on the Navaway app.
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