Landes
The Aquitaine region in South West France has long been recognised for its fine architecture, but a visit to this area also brings the visitor into contact with some fine natural beauty and outdoor pursuits as well.
The Landes area is dominated by a vast, almost entirely man-made pine forest that was planted to regenerate the land and provide an industry for the area in the 18th century. Although some parts of the forest were eventually given over to grain farming, industries related to paper, wood, and pine resin have existed here since the early 20th century. The Landes National Park also forms part of this area, and attracts many active visitors and nature lovers each year. The park offers the opportunity to explore the wildlife of the forests and lakes, enjoy pursuits such as boating and cycling, and sample the local cuisine through local eateries and markets. Local specialities include Cepes and Girolles (Mushrooms), and Tourtiere (Apple Strudel).
The wider Landes area is also famous for the production of Foie Gras, and Floc De Gascogne (a drink similar to Sherry). A trip into rural areas, particularly Chalosse country, will bring you within tasting distance of these delicacies.
Food and forestry aren’t the only important parts of the Landes heritage though, and a trip through the area will bring to light villages with churches over 100 years old, and isolated, yet distinctive Maison Landaise, which are timber framed buildings. Landes also has its own Folklore Society, which gives demonstrations in the art of stilt walking, which is how local folk moved around when the area was swampland. There’s also the chance to see the local version of Bull Fighting, and visit the Eco Musee Des Grandes Landes. A short train ride from Sabres takes visitors to this ‘living village’, where 19th century farm buildings have been restored to give an insight into the rural life of days gone by.
Another big attraction in the area is the Landaise coastline, which is a heady mix of ocean and lake beaches, surfing havens, and trendy beach resorts. One of the main attractions is Hossegor, a European hotspot for surfers, which is packed full of shops, bar restaurants, and a few award winning golf courses. Hossegor’s next door neighbour is a less well known resort with sheltered beaches and seafront, while other beach options include Cap Ferret, Dune Du Pyla (the largest Sand Dune in Europe), and the famous and trendy resort of Biarritz. Pampering could also be on the menu here in Landes, as the Spa town of Dax lies at the southern tip of the region, where people have been testing the therapeutic properties of its hot springs since Roman times.
Visiting this region also opens up a whole list of possibilities for day trips, with places like Bordeaux, Bayonne, parts of the Pyrenees, and Bilbao in Spain, within reach. This is a region that offers everything from peace and tranquillity, to city life, beach holidays and family attractions. With many items of local produce, local sports like Pelota, and markets/music festivals held throughout the area, a holiday here can be an insight into a unique and interesting part of French history/culture too.
