Introduction
Landes is a triangle-shaped department in the southwest of France. Part of the Aquitaine region, it is the second largest department in the country (after Gironde, which borders it to the north), with an area of over 9000 square kilometres.
Landes also borders the Atlantic Ocean and is well-known for its beaches. The Côte d'Argent is the longest stretch of sandy coast in Europe and a very popular destination for surfers. Despite this, outside of peak season there are fewer attractions and it is much quieter.
History
Landes was created on March 4, 1790, during the French Revolution, from parts of the former provinces of Gascony and Guyenne. Large areas of the department were covered in sandy, swampy ground which made it almost impossible to cross in the winter. In the 19th century the land was planted with conifers to help drain it and prevent erosion by the sea. As a result it is now covered by the largest forest in Europe.
Major cities
Weather
The climate in Landes is mild, with an average temperature of 12 degrees Celsius (53 degrees Fahrenheit). The spring is usually rainy, whilst summers are warmer and drier with occasional storms.
Average temperature in Landes| Period | Celsius | Fahrenheit |
|---|
| January | 7 | 45 |
| February | 8 | 46 |
| March | 9 | 48 |
| April | 11 | 52 |
| May | 14 | 57 |
| June | 18 | 64 |
| July | 20 | 68 |
| August | 19 | 66 |
| September | 19 | 66 |
| October | 13 | 55 |
| November | 10 | 50 |
| December | 7 | 45 |
Beaches
The Côte d'Argent stretches for 200km down the west coast of France, from the Gironde estuary to Biarritz. It is the longest, straightest and sandiest coast in Europe. The beaches are backed by sand dunes, behind which lie the department's expansive coniferous forests.
Landes' beaches are enjoyed by thousands of surfers in the summer months. Hossegor is one of the biggest surfing destinations in Europe. Mimizan is also popular.
Tourist attractions
The capital of Landes is Mont-de-Marsan. The town has been a centre of trade since it was founded in 1141. Its impressive 14th century keep is also home to La Pepiniere, a beautiful public garden which runs along the bank of the River Douze.
Dax is a smaller town than the capital but has more to attract visitors. Developed by the Romans, it was the first thermal spa town in France and more than 100,000 people come to bathe in the warm waters of the Fontaine Chaude each year.
Wine tasting
Along with its large tracts of forest, Landes also has many vineyards and is well-known for its wines. Tursan, a Vin Délimité de Qualité Supérieur (Quality Wine PSR), is named after the area where it is made. Most is sold locally. Chalosse is also popular and Bas-Armagnac is produced in the east of the department.
Skiing
Landes' flat terrain is not ideal for skiing. However, not far south of the department lie the Pyrenees, with the national park and many ski resorts].
Golf
With its year-round mild climate, Landes is perfect for golf and there are courses suitable for both beginners and seasoned players. For a list including more information about courses and contact details, have a look at this golf-landes.com.
Other activities
The forested plains of Landes are great for outdoor activities and can be explored on foot, on horseback or by bicycle. There are hundreds of kilometres of cycle paths. Hidden amongst the trees throughout the department are a number of châteaux.
To the north of the department, behind the sand dunes running down the coast, are a series of large lakes. Water-sports are popular and there are many opportunities for fishing although you will need a permit.
Food and drink
Landes is famous for its cuisine, especially poultry. Foie gras (made from duck or goose liver) holds pride of place, as well as confit – duck or goose preserved in its own fat – and magret, fillets of duck. Landes free-range chicken, raised outside on a diet of maize, is also very good and the area is famous for its tender Chalosse beef. Salmon, eels, shad and elver are caught in the local rivers.
Ease of access
Bordeaux Airport is served by British Airways and a number of budget airlines from Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham and Manchester. Pau and Biarritz airports are served by Ryanair from Stansted.
By rail, the journey from Paris to Bordeaux takes a little over 3 hours. If you are driving, check out this interactive road map.
Value for money
Although the beaches are very busy at the height of summer, Landes is otherwise less popular with tourists and is reasonably cheap.
Summary
Landes' expansive forests are an excellent choice for walking or cycling holidays and the Côte d'Argent is a must for surfers.
