Discovering the Marine Lake of the Port of Albret, a real Landes jewel

With family, friends, or lovers, come and enjoy a soft sunny day on the shores of the marine lake of Port d'Albret, this treasure of the Landes. You will discover a unique place where different landscapes mingle. As you walk along the path, you will see the vegetation change and evolve: the pines giving way to the dunes and nature to a few constructions. You can also do many activities or simply put your towel on the sand and swim in the peaceful waters of the lake, to cool off or relax.

On very sunny days, it is pleasant to enjoy the shade of the trees

What is the Lac Marin du Port d'Albret?

A marine lake, as opposed to a "classic" lake, has the particularity of being made up of salt water. Why? Because it is powered by a sea or an ocean. The Port d'Albret lake is fed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. And, like the latter, he lives to the rhythm of the tides.

Meeting point between the ocean and the Soustons current

The Soustons current which flows into the lake

The lake, as you will see it, dates from 1966. It straddles two towns: Soustons, to the south, and Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, to the north. It covers an area of 52Ha and is 1km long, 1.1km wide.

In its center, an island stands proudly. It is not inhabited, and is therefore 100% wild. Completely reachable by pedal boat or stand-up-paddle for example, you can set foot there and set off to conquer it, just like Robinson Crusoe!

Conquer the wild island !

Take a walk or bike ride to the Port d'Albret marine lake

Whether you are a walker or hiker on foot, or you prefer the bike, this loop of just under 5km is perfectly suited to the ride or sport. The circuit does not present any particular difficulty, so everyone can enjoy it at their own pace, just follow the tarmac path!

Changing vegetation along the trail

A variety of landscapes

What makes this site so exceptional is its natural environment. You will not be bored during your walk and will be captivated by the variety of landscapes.

Typical Landes vegetation

The Landes forest is mainly made up of 3 species of trees:

Maritime pine
The Oak
Cork oak

The trees of the Landes forest

And in terms of low vegetation, ferns and heather are very representative of the Landes de Gascogne. Here, depending on the season, you can enjoy some wild flowers that grow here and there and which bring color and softness in this rather dry and arid environment.

Some bucolic pictures

A dune to preserve

A few steps from the mouth between the ocean and the lake, you will have the chance to see a pretty dune of golden sand. Despite its fragility, it plays a major role. It protects the vegetation and the coastline from the onslaught of the ocean. It is therefore essential to protect and preserve it.

Take care of the dune

When nature and urbanization meet

Another advantage of this exceptional place is the presence of a few bars, restaurants and other small shops, ready to help you. If, during your walk, you get a little thirsty, you have two options: take a break towards the north beach (in the town of Vieux-Boucau) or on the Soustons side, not far from the nautical base. The shaded terraces are at your disposal so that you can quench your thirst. The same goes for restaurants. Thanks to their location by the lake, you will enjoy a privileged moment, with a breathtaking panorama.

Take a break in Vieux Boucau, the traders will welcome you with pleasure

Useful information

Free, shaded parking is available for walkers and visitors. You can also plan to spend the day on the site and have a picnic there, as many wooden tables have been set up. And for tea time, why not sit right on the beach, or simply stop on a bench to contemplate the beauty of the place?