Discover the Landes and the Landes Coast: a great place to live
In the heart of south-western France, the Landes département is a veritable mosaic of diverse landscapes and richly variedactivities. A territory that Aupa Immobilier, your Landes estate agency, knows inside out.
From endless beaches to lively seaside resorts, peaceful lakes and verdant forests, the Landes offers the ideal setting for anyone looking to get away from it all. Whether it’s basking in the sun or exploring their cultural heritage, there’s always something to do.
Towns and villages in Landes
The towns of the Landes region stand out for their unique charm and rich history.
Mont-de-Marsan, the prefecture, boasts surprising architecture with its half-timbered houses and numerous cultural events. Nicknamed the “city of three rivers”, it offers a peaceful, leafy setting, ideal for an authentic getaway.
Dax is another remarkable town, world-renowned for its thermal baths and hot springs. Every year, it attracts visitors seeking healing or simply relaxation. Take the time to stroll through its lively streets to discover local stores and sample the delights of Landes gastronomy.
Hossegor and the port of Capbreton are two jewels on the south coast of the Landes, just a few kilometers from Vieux-Boucau. Hossegor seduces with its chic, relaxed atmosphere, trendy boutiques, restaurants facing the marine lake and, above all, its world-renowned surfing beaches. Right next door, the port of Capbreton offers an authentic atmosphere, with fishing boats, lively terraces and a live fish market from the trawlers. It’s the ideal place for a stroll at the end of the day, a sunset aperitif or a tasting of local produce.
In summer, the Landes and the Basque country come alive with local festivals, an essential part of South-Western culture. Just a few kilometers from Vieux-Boucau, enjoy the colorful ferias of Dax, Bayonne or Mont-de-Marsan: bandas, parades, gastronomy and bullfighting traditions set hearts aflutter. These festivities bring together all generations in a uniquely convivial and festive atmosphere.
Some gems, such as Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, Moliets-et-Maâ and Messanges, will delight lovers of authenticity. The gentle way of life that emanates from these places invites you to discover and meet the locals, who are always ready to share their love of their land.
Must-see sites
Whether in Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, Messanges or Moliets-et-Maâ, you’ll find a varied choice of houses and apartments for sale in the Landes region. From villas and charming pavilions nestling in the heart of pine forests, to bright, spacious modern apartments, the options are numerous. Buying a house or apartment in the Landes represents not only a lasting investment in your heritage, but also a sound financial investment in a region whose appeal continues to grow. Demand is growing steadily, driven in particular by French and Spanish customers looking for second homes or rental opportunities.
In this dynamic context, the local expertise of our Aupa Immobilier agency enables you to identify the best opportunities, accompanying you at every stage of your purchasing project.
Discovering the Huchet stream: the little Landes Amazon
There are a number of attractions in the Landes region that are not to be missed. Starting with the current of Huchet, this arm of the river meanders through a protected nature reserve, also known as the little Landes Amazon. You can explore it by canoe or boat, accompanied by a naturalist guide, to learn more about the local biodiversity.
The Contis lighthouse: a breathtaking view of the Landes coast
The Contis lighthouse offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Landes coastline. Climb its 183 steps and be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama.
The Marquèze Ecomuseum: a journey to the heart of the 19th century
In Sabres, the Marquèze Ecomuseum takes you back to the daily life of the inhabitants of the Landes de Gascogne in the 19th century. Accessible by an old-fashioned little train, the site features traditional houses, bread ovens, mills, vegetable gardens and farm animals. This immersion in the past delights young and old alike, and offers a fine lesson in local history.
Climb the Dune du Pilat: panoramic views and guaranteed thrills
Or venture to the Pilat Dune, near the Arcachon Basin, reputed to be the highest in Europe. Climbing this sand giant is an unforgettable experience and an excellent spot for paragliding.
Vieux-Boucau marine lake: water sports and relaxation for all the family
Right in the heart of the seaside resort of Vieux-Boucau, the marine lake is the perfect place for relaxation and leisure. Bordered by beaches, it is particularly popular with families for its safety and calm waters. You can enjoy a wide range of water sports, including pedalos, paddleboats, sailing and kayaking. Its footpaths and cycle paths also allow you to enjoy the natural surroundings at your own pace. A true haven of peace at the height of the summer season.
Moliets golf course: swing between ocean and pine trees
Nestled between forest and ocean, the Moliets golf course is one of the finest in the region. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, the 18-hole course offers exceptional views of the Landes countryside, and is equally appealing to experienced golfers and beginners alike. In addition to its technical quality, the site is renowned for its tranquillity and harmonious integration with nature. It’s also an ideal place to learn golf in an exceptional setting.
Capbreton market: local flavours by the harbour
Finally, don’t leave the Landes without a detour to the Capbreton market. Right on the harbor, you can buy fresh fish, just landed by the fishermen. Sea bass, sole, chipirons or shrimps: the seafood is varied and delicious. The authentic ambience of the port, between boats and fishing huts, offers a real taste of the South-West for those wishing to cook locally or simply enjoy a good meal facing the ocean.
To sum up, here is our selection of 100% escapism and natural discoveries:
- The Huchet stream for a river getaway.
- The Contis lighthouse for a breathtaking view.
- The Dune du Pilat at the gateway to the Landes region, perfect for paragliding.
- The Vieux-Boucau marine lake, for water sports activities for all the family.
- The Moliets golf course, for swinging between pine trees and the ocean.
- The Marquèze Ecomuseum, for a journey back in time to the heart of Landes culture.
- The Capbreton fish market, for a gourmet and local break in front of the boats.
The lakes and ponds of the Landes: nature, swimming and ornithology
Finally, it’s impossible to talk about the Landes without mentioning its beaches along the Atlantic coast, its forests and, last but not least, its lakes. Indeed, in addition to its spectacular beaches and maritime pine forests, the Landes is also home to several magnificent lakes. The Lac de Léon, the Lac d’Hossegor and the Lac Marin de Vieux-Boucau are three must-see sites where you can indulge in a variety of activities such as canoeing, sailing or simply swimming. Not forgetting theEtang de Moïsan in Messanges, for walks in a nature reserve, and theEtang de Soustons, with its famous Ponton d’Azur.
These lakes are also rich ecosystems where flora and fauna thrive. This natural setting offers a unique opportunity to observe migratory birds in their natural habitat, especially during the migration seasons.
The best things to do in the Landes
Sports enthusiasts will be delighted in the Landes. Whether you want to surf the rollers of the Atlantic Ocean, practice kitesurfing or try your hand at paddleboarding on the lakes, there’s no shortage of options!
For those who prefer to stay on land, the countless cycle paths, including the famous Vélodyssée and Scandibérique, allow you to explore the charming coastal landscapes by bike. These routes are perfect for an enjoyable day out with family or friends.
When it comes to relaxation and new experiences, the Landes spa is not just for spa-goers. Enjoy the natural benefits of spas and wellness centers that use local resources to provide effective therapeutic treatments.Finally, it’s impossible to leave the Landes without indulging in gourmet delights. Discover the local markets where foie gras, free-range chicken, Armagnac and typical sweet treats await you. A true immersion in regional gastronomy!