Les Landes

Les Landes, a vast stretch of pine forest and golden sand along the southwest coast of France, offers a raw, windswept beauty that feels a world away from the usual tourist trail. Here, the Atlantic Ocean crashes against towering dunes, while the scent of resin and salt hangs in the air. For international travellers, it’s a chance to experience a landscape shaped by nature and tradition, with a laid-back surf culture and simple, hearty cuisine.

Highlights & What to See

• Dune du Pilat – Europe’s tallest sand dune rises over 100 metres above the sea, offering staggering views over the Arcachon Basin and the pine forest. Climb it at sunrise or sunset for a truly unforgettable sight.
• Biscarrosse & Mimizan beaches – Endless stretches of fine sand and powerful waves make these spots perfect for surfing, or simply walking with the wind in your hair.
• Forêt des Landes – The largest man-made forest in Europe, crisscrossed with cycling and hiking trails. Look out for deer, wild boar, and the occasional fire lookout tower.
• Bordeaux wine region – Just inland, the vineyards of Médoc and Sauternes produce some of the world’s finest wines. Many châteaux offer tastings by appointment.
• Arcachon Bay – A sheltered inlet famous for oyster farming. Take a boat trip to see the iconic Cap Ferret lighthouse and sample freshly shucked oysters at a waterside cabane.

Suggested Time to Spend

Three to four days allows you to explore the coast and forest at a relaxed pace. Spend a full day on the Dune du Pilat and Arcachon Bay, another cycling or hiking in the forest, and a third surfing or lounging on the beaches. If you’re combining with Bordeaux city, add two extra days for vineyard tours.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bordeaux – A vibrant city of 18th-century architecture, world-class wine bars, and the Cité du Vin museum, just over an hour east.
• Bayonne – Charming Basque town known for its Gothic cathedral, chocolate shops, and the lively Fêtes de Bayonne.
• Biarritz – Glamorous surf resort with a historic casino, sea-view promenades, and excellent seafood.
• Pays Basque – Dramatic green hills, whitewashed villages like Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and a distinct culture with its own language and cuisine.
• Périgord – The land of truffles, foie gras, and prehistoric cave paintings at Lascaux, a two-hour drive north.

Please check official sources for current details.