10 unmissable experiences in the Landes region of Côte Landes Nature

With the first buds of spring, the urge to escape takes hold. Admittedly, the holidays are still a long way off, but that's no reason to stop dreaming and planning your next getaway! A secret beach, a hike in nature, unusual discoveries... On the Atlantic coast, the Landes region is a prime destination for an unforgettable stay. Far from the summer bustle of popular seaside resorts like Biscarrosse, Capbreton, or Hossegor, there's a small area between Mimizan and Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains that has plenty to offer. With an enchanting coastline of 30 km of fine sandy beaches, a wild environment, and typical, authentic Landes villages, Côte Landes Nature promises experiences to be lived to the fullest! Here's a brief overview of the unique experiences this preserved and still relatively unknown destination offers, for a different kind of holiday in harmony with nature.

Discover the joys of gliding and experience surf culture

The Landes coastline is considered the European capital of surfing, offering perfect conditions for both learning to surf and high-level competition. Here, the superb beach breaks —long, consistent waves that roll onto a sandy bottom close to shore—rival those of the most famous Atlantic surf spots like Hossegor or Capbreton. Between the beaches of Contis in the north, Cap de l'Homy, Plage de la Lette Blanche, and Saint-Girons in the south, the 27 kilometers of beaches lapped by the ocean's generous swells create a vast playground for all thrill-seekers. More than just a hobby or a simple sporting activity, surf culture is omnipresent here: a relaxed, friendly way of life in harmony with nature.

Climb the Contis Lighthouse for a breathtaking view

183 steps, not one less! Amidst the maritime pines of the Contis forest, a steep climb leads to the top of the Contis lighthouse via a spiral staircase. In the 'Barber Pole' style with its black and white spiral painting, the only lighthouse in the Landes region – equidistant from Biarritz and Arcachon – was commissioned in December 1863. Still in operation, this structure is now listed as a Historical Monument. Go on, take it! Ascend to the top for a magnificent reward: at 41.5 meters high, the panoramic view is breathtaking, encompassing the Landes region, its endless beaches, and the vastness of the forest.

Exploring the forest by bike on the cycle paths

From short daily commutes to longer day trips, this destination is best experienced by bike! To change pace, take the time to observe nature, and get off the beaten track, explore kilometers of safe cycle paths and marked routes: between the Vignac cycle path, the Cap de l'Homy cycle path, and the Contis Plage to Léon cycle route, there's bound to be a cycle path that passes right by your holiday accommodation and leads you to your destination. You can also take the "Lo Camin de Hè" greenway ("The Railway" in Gascon), which follows the route of the old Landes railway line, connecting the village of Taller to Vielle-Saint-Girons, via Castets and Linxe. All 10 villages in the local area are easily accessible by bike! What a pleasure to let yourself be carried from village to village, to discover the heritage by bike, to stop in village squares or on cafe terraces, to improvise a picnic in the shade of the pine trees… A whole art of living, and what's more, respectful of the environment and much more economical than the car!

Canoeing down the Contis stream

Starting from the canoe base in Lit-et-Mixe, embark on an adventure along nearly 8km of the Courant de Contis ! Whether solo, as a couple, or with your family, set off for 2.5 hours of pure bliss discovering the Landes "canopy," a Natura 2000 protected area renowned for its rich flora and fauna. In complete harmony with nature, navigate the meanders of the shallow river, steering your canoe through narrow, winding passages, and enjoying the breathtaking scenery unfolding before your eyes. Between wet meadows, marshy areas, wild banks, and verdant forests, discover a stunning natural environment accessible only by canoe. A truly memorable experience!

Enjoy the famous Landes pastis

It's easy to be misled, but no, the Landes pastis has absolutely nothing in common with the famous anise and licorice-flavored alcoholic beverage. In the Landes region, it's a traditional pastry, a generous, rich, and flavorful brioche. While it was once enjoyed exclusively at weddings and major local festivals, the Landes pastis is now a popular dessert to be enjoyed at any time of day: for breakfast, after a meal, or as an afternoon snack, much to the delight of children. Flavored with subtle aromas of rum, vanilla, orange blossom, or Armagnac, depending on the recipe, you'll find it in markets, bakeries, and gourmet shops. Give in to temptation; this delicious cake is an integral part of the local culture!

Boat trip on the Huchet stream

Nicknamed the "Landes Amazon," the Huchet stream is a 12-kilometer natural wonder that connects Lake Léon to the ocean. From the banks of Lake Léon, embark on a traditional flat-bottomed boat with a boatman, the famous Landes "galupe," for a few hours of leisurely cruising and a complete change of scenery. Let yourself be captivated by the unique atmosphere of this unusual waterway, a protected nature reserve since 1981. An extraordinary journey through a wild, fragile, and protected environment—a must-see!

Taste the Landes foie gras

Hungry for culinary discoveries ? The pleasures of the table are a true institution in the Landes region. From farm to table, people love to rediscover the taste of fine local produce. The local star? Foie gras from the best duck farms, where ducks are raised free-range and fed on Landes corn. Ubiquitous in restaurants, it's hard to resist this delicacy. Imagine a beautiful slice of whole, semi-cooked foie gras, served on fresh, crusty bread and accompanied by onion jam, fig chutney, or apple chutney. Here, foie gras is prepared according to the chefs' imaginations. What if we combined foie gras toasts with gingerbread, sweet and savory foie gras recipes like crème brûlée, pan- seared foie gras crostini, or even foie gras burgers ? A real treat!

Discover the architecture of the Landes region

Admiring regional architecture is a fascinating activity while on vacation. How can one resist the charm of traditional Landes houses ? These superb , colorful, half-timbered homes reflect a type of housing that reflects the evolution of the Landes landscape, transformed into pine forests in the 19th century when wood was an accessible resource. In the heart of villages like Lit-et-Mixte, Castets, Linxe, and Lévignacq, sublime examples of these charming old houses remain intact, a true feast for the eyes! Having been influenced by numerous Basque, Béarnais, Gironde, and Gersois styles, the region boasts a diverse architectural landscape. A real treat for architecture and heritage enthusiasts !

Stroll through the narrow streets of small villages to discover the heritage

Whether on foot or by bike, the true luxury of a holiday is taking your time! Disconnect, slow down, forget about schedules, and cultivate leisure to make the most of your time. Nestled between land, pine forest, and ocean, the 10 villages of Côte Landes Nature hold many hidden heritage treasures not to be missed.

• In the heart of Lit-et-Mixe, discover the fascinating architecture of the church "Notre Dame de Lit".
• In Uza, the Saint-Louis church is a marvel listed as a Historical Monument.
• In Castets, a heritage trail set up by the tourist office reveals diverse architectural treasures: the town hall and its neoclassical style, the church of Saint-Barthélemy-et-Saint-Roch as well as the old forges of Castets, now in ruins.
• In Lévignacq, admire the old presbytery which stands next to the fortified Saint-Martin church, listed as a Historical Monument.

True little corners of paradise for lovers of old stones, epicureans, history buffs or simply the curious!

Relaxing on the beautiful beaches

Finally, Côte Landes Nature is a paradise for all those who love to relax ! From the wildest to the most secluded, its idyllic beaches are perfect for a restful and rejuvenating getaway. Experience the Landes version of la dolce vita. Contis Beach, Cap de l'Homy Beach, and Lette Blanche Beach are undoubtedly among the most beautiful beaches in the Landes region for swimming or watching the sunset over the ocean. Nestled behind the dunes, these vast stretches of fine sand offer picture-perfect scenery in every season. For those who wish to sunbathe in their birthday suits, Arnaoutchot Beach is renowned as one of the most beautiful naturist beaches in France. Finally, ideal for families and young children, the two beaches on Lake Léon offer safe swimming in shallow water, always warmer than the ocean.

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