Landes

Biscarrosse

Biscarrosse is a coastal town with a beautiful lake, surrounded by forests and sand dunes. The town is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Labenne

Labenne is a lovely seaside village known for its beautiful beach and surrounding nature reserve. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and birdwatching in the nearby forest.

Capbreton

Capbreton is a picturesque fishing village located on the coast of Landes. Visitors can explore the town's quaint streets and historic landmarks, as well as enjoy its beautiful beaches and scenic views

WELCOME TO Landes

Entry Into Department

largest city

Mont-de-Marsan

AREA

36.98 km²

POPULATION

31,000

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Dune du Pilat

Dune du Pilat, located in southwestern France, is the tallest sand dune in Europe. Its massive size and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest and ocean make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can hike to the top of the 110-meter high dune, take in the beautiful views, and even try sandboarding or paragliding.

Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve

The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the northwestern corner of Landes, France. It is a unique and diverse ecosystem with a variety of flora and fauna, including a rare type of freshwater eel. Visitors can explore the forest, take a boat tour, and marvel at the beauty of the Résinier lake.

Seignosse Beach

Seignosse Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Landes, France. Stretching for over six kilometers, the beach is backed by sand dunes and pine forests, creating a stunning natural setting. It is a favorite among surfers, sunbathers, and nature lovers alike, with plenty of activities and amenities available.

Political

Economy and Government

Landes is a department in southwestern France with a population of approximately 400,000. The economy of Landes is based primarily on agriculture and tourism. The region is known for its production of foie gras, duck and goose meat, and pine trees. The forest industry is also a major contributor to the local economy, with the production of timber, paper, and other forest products.

In terms of government, Landes is governed by a departmental council, which is responsible for managing local services and infrastructure. The council is composed of 34 members, who are elected every six years.

At the national level, Landes is represented in the French National Assembly by three deputies. The department is part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, which has its own regional council and president.

Landes is also home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Pau and Pays de l'Adour, which has a campus in Mont-de-Marsan. The region has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of museums, festivals, and events showcasing its history and traditions.

History

History and Culture

Landes has a rich and diverse history and culture. The region was inhabited by the Basques and Gascons for thousands of years before the arrival of the Romans, who established several settlements in the area. During the Middle Ages, the region was marked by feudalism and conflicts between local lords, as well as religious wars between Protestants and Catholics.

In the 19th century, the region underwent major changes with the planting of large forests of maritime pine trees, which led to the development of the forest industry and the production of resin and timber.

Today, Landes is known for its traditional architecture, including half-timbered houses, as well as its gastronomy, which includes specialties such as foie gras, duck confit, and Armagnac brandy. The region is also famous for its bullfighting festivals, which are a part of its cultural heritage.

Landes is home to a number of museums and cultural institutions, including the Musée de la Chalosse in Montfort-en-Chalosse, which showcases the region's history and traditions, and the Musée de Borda in Dax, which has a collection of fine art and decorative objects. The region also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fêtes de Bayonne and the Festival Arte Flamenco in Mont-de-Marsan.

HOTELS

Hôtel du Palais

This luxury hotel is located in the coastal town of Biarritz, just a short distance from the border with Landes. It is housed in a beautiful palace that was once the summer residence of Napoleon III, and offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay. The hotel has 153 rooms and suites, as well as several gourmet restaurants, a spa, and a private beach.

Les Hortensias du Lac

This elegant hotel is situated on the shores of Lake Hossegor in the heart of Landes. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with lake views, as well as a gourmet restaurant and a spa. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sailing, and golfing.

Hôtel Le Splendid

Located in the spa town of Dax, this historic hotel dates back to 1893 and has been recently renovated to provide modern amenities while maintaining its classic charm. It offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant, bar, and spa. The hotel is just a short walk from the famous hot springs of Dax.

RESTAURANTS

Le Parcours Gourmand

Located in the charming town of Mont-de-Marsan, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a creative and refined cuisine that focuses on the best local and seasonal ingredients. The elegant dining room features large windows overlooking a beautiful garden, and the wine list offers a carefully curated selection of local and international wines

Les Prés d'Eugénie:

This restaurant is part of a luxury hotel and spa located in the small town of Eugénie-les-Bains. The cuisine, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Michel Guérard, is based on the principles of "cuisine minceur," which emphasizes healthy and light dishes. The restaurant offers an elegant dining room as well as a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens.

Chez Hortense:

This restaurant is located in the charming coastal village of Capbreton, just a short distance from Hossegor. It specializes in seafood and offers a wide variety of fresh and locally sourced fish and shellfish. The casual and friendly atmosphere, along with the great views of the harbor, make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.