What to do in Dax?

It is good to ask yourself this question before leaving to make the most of all the opportunities in Dax. Between Mont-de-Marsan and Capbreton, this town in the Landes renowned for its thermal waters is also pleasant to visit. Walks along the Adour, walks in the historic center and various activities , you won't get bored!

Opening photo: AdobeStock_vmonet

The thermal baths in Dax, a cure not to be missed

It's a must ! The quality of care and products is unique to Dax thanks to the particularities of the Adour water. Peloid, a natural mud taken from the river, offers recognized properties for treating rheumatology, phlebology or fibromyalgia problems. Hot water, luxury accommodation and adapted structure, you will have all the comfort necessary for a spa treatment in complete serenity.

Visit the historic center of Dax on foot

Easy to do and not very long, the visit to the historic center of Dax will inevitably take you to the hot fountain, also called the source of the Nèhe. Built in 1814 on ancient Roman baths, it is the symbol of the city and takes its name from a Nordic goddess of waters. Its bubbling water gushes out at 64°C, a real spectacle in the heart of the city not to be missed. If you're strolling around on a Saturday morning, head to Les Halles, a pretty, colorful market awaits you.

Visit the ALAT Museum (Light Aviation of the Army) in Dax

60 years of history are recounted over nearly 6,000m2. With a collection of 70 aircraft on display, the visit is fascinating, led by a guide who takes the time to explain everything to you. Spend a day with your family tracing the history of these helicopters and planes that served in different armies. Children will love climbing on board and participating in the workshops.

Discover the Dax arenas, a must-see in the city

Impossible to visit Dax without passing through the arenas. Built in 1913 in Andalusian style, they are imposing and welcome up to 8,000 people each year to celebrate the ferias. The event, organized between August and September, amazes young and old with the Landes races, dogs and their flocks of sheep, guardians on stilts and traditional dance shows. Historical monument of the Landes department, the visit is free , take advantage of it.

Take the Dax ramparts walk

It's quite astonishing to see these two sections forming an almost perfect rectangle. Originally, the building was a fortified enclosure, built in the 4th century during the Gallo-Roman era, but was destroyed in the 19th century. Today, only a fifth of its structure remains, which extends over almost 13 hectares. The rampart walk allows you to gain height on an easy 2km route. Overlook the town of Dax, the hot fountain and the Cathedral before continuing your visit to this spa town.

Visit the Borda Museum in Dax

The Borda Museum is elegant and very beautiful to visit, with many temporary and permanent exhibitions. Labeled “ Musée de France ”, it presents its works all year round and offers guided tours certain days of the week. Discover the history of Dacquois heritage and various collections also presented in the old Carmelite church and on the archaeological site of the Gallo-Roman basilica.

Stroll through the green spaces of the city of Dax

The banks of the Adour, this river where the silt is used for thermal cures, are also a great way to escape. From the Bois de Boulogne to the Estey pond, walk along the banks of the Adour along the town of Dax, and enjoy the pretty landscapes formed by the green vegetation.

Sarrat Park, in the heart of the town of Dax, is very pretty with its 800 trees which make it a warm, pleasant space for a stroll. Made up of a French garden and a landscaped garden, it also contains the house of the architect René Guichemerre which can be visited.

Bordered by the Adour and the Gallo-Roman ramparts, Théodore Denis Park is a green space to discover with its few significant statues. At the entrance, a sculpture represents a bull and the coat of arms of Dax, while at the exit, another pays homage to the largest racing cow of the 20th century.

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral in Dax

This grandiose building was built between the middle of the 17th century and the end of the 19th century, yet retaining vestiges of the old 13th century Cathedral. The exterior is magnificent in its architecture , as is the interior with its numerous stained glass windows and rich decorations . The most curious can enjoy a free guided tour every Thursday at 4 p.m. Discover the entire history of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

You now know all the secrets of the city of Dax, so when you are asked, you will know how to answer the question “what to do in Dax”. Don't forget to discover the city before recommending it.

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