For nature lovers
1. The Courant d’Huchet – “The Amazon of the Landes”
This natural reserve, unique in Europe, is worth the trip on its own. Guided galupe rides (traditional flat-bottomed boats) led by a naturalist immerse you in a preserved wild corridor between lake and ocean, where the exceptional biodiversity fascinates both children and adults.
📍 Where: between Léon and Moliets-et-Maâ
💡 Tip: book early, the boat rides are very popular
🌿 Ideal for: all ages, a unique experience
2. The Étang Noir nature reserve
In the heart of Seignosse, this 52-hectare preserved wetland can be explored via boardwalk trails. Birds, rare plants, and an authentic Landes ecosystem reveal the area’s natural richness.
📍 Where: Seignosse (Triangle d’Or)
🌿 Ideal for: families, lovers of gentle walks
3. Lake Biscarrosse-Parentis
The largest lake in the Landes impresses with its size (5,600 hectares, the second largest in France). Water sports, landscaped beaches, cycling tours, and the Seaplane Museum tell the unique story of this region.
📍 Where: Biscarrosse
🌿 Ideal for: families, athletes, history enthusiasts
4. Contis lighthouse
The one and only lighthouse in the Landes, this 42-meter tower offers (after climbing 192 steps!) a breathtaking 360° panoramic view over the ocean and the endless pine forest.
📍 Where: Saint-Julien-en-Born
🌿 Ideal for: memorable photos and beautiful panoramic views
Seaside spots and lakes not to be missed
5. Hossegor marine lake
Its calm waters contrast with the waves of the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and safe swimming can all be enjoyed in a well-developed setting with walking paths all around.
📍 Where: Hossegor (Triangle d’Or)
🌿 Ideal for: families who enjoy calm water sports
6. Capbreton estacade
This iconic 190-meter jetty stretches out into the ocean and offers spectacular views over the harbor, the waves, and the Pyrenees in the distance. Its red lighthouse has become an icon.
📍 Where: Capbreton harbor
💡 Don’t miss: the daily fish market in the morning
🌿 Ideal for: lovely photos, magical sunsets, and an authentic atmosphere
7. The marine lake of Port d’Albret
Unique in the Landes, this body of water combines seawater with the calm of a lake thanks to a controlled connection to the ocean. Children love this peaceful, wave-free, and safe swimming spot.
📍 Where: Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains
🌿 Ideal for: families with young children
The must-see heritage and cultural sites of the Landes
8. Place Royale in Labastide-d’Armagnac
This 13th-century medieval bastide inspired the Place des Vosges in Paris! Its half-timbered houses, perfect arcades, and recognition as one of France’s favorite villages make it an absolute gem of the Landes.
📍 Where: Labastide-d’Armagnac (inland Landes)
🌿 Ideal for: (once again!) beautiful photos, a journey through history, and authentic charm
9. The hot fountain of Dax
This thermal spring, gushing at 64°C since Antiquity, symbolizes Dax, the spa capital of France. Its landscaped park, constant steam, and spa heritage tell two thousand years of wellness history.
📍 Where: Dax town center
💡 Bonus: the Dax Feria in mid-August for a unique atmosphere
🌿 Ideal for: rich heritage, a wellness break, and discovering local traditions
10. The historic center of Mont-de-Marsan
The prefecture of the Landes reveals the Lacataye keep, medieval streets, and its nickname, the “town of three rivers,” where the Midou and the Douze meet to form… the Midouze! The Despiau-Wlérick Museum, meanwhile, celebrates sculpture.
📍 Where: Mont-de-Marsan
🌿 Ideal for: a pleasant mix of heritage, culture, and shopping
Our recommendations for families looking for leisure activities in the Landes region
11. The Marquèze ecomuseum
This reconstructed 19th-century village offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in the Landes. Access by steam train delights children, while the traditional houses, old trades, and farm animals fascinate the whole family.
📍 Where: Sabres (regional natural park)
💡 Allow: half a day or a full day
🌿 Ideal for: families who enjoy cultural immersion
12. Labenne zoo
The leading private tourist site in the Landes, this zoo is home to more than 200 animals (giraffes, lynxes, wolves, monkeys) and offers the unique “Keeper for a Day” activity. Playgrounds and picnic areas complete the experience.
📍 Where: Labenne (20 min from Hossegor/Bayonne)
💡 Allow: half a day or a full day
🌿 Ideal for: families with curious little ones who love animals
The region’s unique experiences
13. Moliets Golf Course
Ranked among the Top 100 best golf courses in the world, this exceptional 18-hole course extends all the way to the beach! The setting, combining forest, dunes, and ocean, appeals even to non-golfers who come to enjoy the restaurant and the walks.
📍 Where: Moliets-et-Maâ
🌿 Ideal for: golfers dreaming of an exceptional setting
14. A surf session in Seignosse or Hossegor
The Landes is THE European surfing capital! Hossegor (with its legendary La Gravière spot) and Seignosse host the world championships every year. Many surf schools offer lessons for beginners as well as advanced surfers. Putting on a wetsuit and riding the waves of the Landes remains an unforgettable experience, whatever your level!
📍 Where: Hossegor (La Gravière, La Nord, Les Culs Nus) or Seignosse (Bourdaines, Estagnots)
💡 Tip: book your lesson with a certified surf school (such as Oxbow Surf School at Naturéo)
These 14 Landes gems embody the diversity of our beautiful region: preserved nature, living heritage, family relaxation, and unique experiences. More than enough to create unforgettable holidays between pine forest and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy discovering them!
