The Landes: a multi-faceted region
Aqualand or Aquapark?
Whether at Aqualand in Arcachon or Aquapark in Biscarrosse, children reign. And not only children! Boomerang, Colorado or Tornado? Which of these giant water slides will you choose to dive into the unknown at Aquapark? You can take the water slides in singles, doubles or with the whole family. There are plenty of ways to have fun! The largest water park in the world, Aqualand, awaits you near our 5-star campsite in Biscarrosse. You will find every inflatable structure imaginable on a huge stretch of water.
Arcachon Bay and the Dune du Pilat near your 5-star campsite
Nowhere in the world will you find such a view. You must climb it. Absolutely. Take your time. 110 meters of sand seem to guard the entry to Arcachon Bay. You must climb to the top to see the gorgeous view. The Arcachon Bay passes wind around both sides of the Bank of Arguin, whose white sands seem to struggle inexorably against the strong currents. A breath of fresh air and nature before you stroll along the Thiers pier in Arcachon, facing the huts on stilts and listening to the gentle hum of the Arcachon pinasse engines.
The Landes: a destination within reach on your bike
Welcome to the paradise of family bike rides. There are no difficult passes or tall hills here. Only the joy of pedaling slowly under the shade of the tall pines of the Landes forest or along the dunes.
The shores of the Lake of Biscarrosse are perfect for riding bikes along the region’s many bike trails.
- Biscarrosse along the route of the famous Velodyssée trail
- 150 km from the Dune du Pilat to Bayonne
- Marked and maintained trails, accessible for all levels
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THE VELODYSSÉE
This route has become a must for fans of cycling. The Velodysée connects Roscoff in northern Brittany to Hendaye at the border with Spain, a distance of 1,260 km. You will see backpackers with camping equipment as well as families and cyclists out for a day ride, taking the route for a few dozen kilometers along the bike paths or greenway. Luckily for you, the Velodyssée runs just a few meters from your 5-star campsite. All you have to do is hop on your bike and join the Velodyssée club.
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THE DUNE OF PILAT BY BIKE
What if you tried a very safe path under the cool shade of the pine trees? From the campsite, you can bike to Biscarrosse along a 25-km bike path, then take a dip in the ocean. And if your calves can handle it, push on to the Dune of Pilat, another 30 km. You will have to leave early in the morning. The ride is well worth it and climbing the dune will ensure that you have an active holiday.
Markets in the Landes
The Landes is one of the French departments with the most AOPs (Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée) and IGPs (Indication Géographique Protégée). This means that you are in a land of gourmet specialties and expertise.
- The Landes, home of fine cuisine
- Farmers’ markets in Biscarrosse, Parentis-en-Born and Sanguinet
- Night and themed markets
The Landes, a gourmet department…
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The Landes, a gourmet department…
Of course, there is no trip to the Landes without trying the famous duck: magret, foie, confit with small potatoes or vegetables under the sun. Here, ducks have been raised for generations on family farms that keep their secrets. Farmers sell their products at the Aquitaine markets.
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Markets every day
The Biscarrosse beach market is held every morning in July and August; the Parentis-en-Born market, which you can reach on foot or by bike from the campsite, takes place on Thursday mornings all year long and Sunday mornings (in july and august); Sanguinet on Wednesdays mornings all year long and Sundays mornings (in july and august). You will find all the local specialities, including vegetables like eggplant and peppers swollen by the sun, kiwis from the Adour or asparagus from the Landes, roasted potatoes and locally produced cheeses. You are also in the land of vineyards and small wine growers where you can taste their wares, with moderation, in white, rosé or red.
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Themed markets
Farmers invite you to visit their farms. You can tour an educational apiary. Honey from the Landes is one of the most famous varieties in France. Or visit a craft brewery.
Horseback riding
The Landes Forest in Aquitaine is a great place for riding horses and exploring the region differently along the many trails, far from the main roads. Several equestrian centers offer rides with :
- Marked trails known by the horses
- Custom rides for ages 2+
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Equi’aventure in Sanguinet
The instructors at Equi’aventure are passionate about horses and the nature of the Landes. They welcome you to the ranch and help you take care of your horse before you get in the saddle. You will experience an unforgettable adventure that starts with a ride through the forest, then a dip in the lake with your horse. You can even gallop right into the lake! Then it’s a well-deserved break for the horses, under the trees. Equi’Aventure is located in Sanguinet.
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Ecuries d’En Hill
You can explore the biggest cultivated pine forest in Europe with Ecuries d’En Hill. The Landes Forest with the unique smell of maritime pines. You may see a rabbit, squirrel or deer, which live alongside the horses and ponies from the equestrian center. An opportunity to reconnect with wild nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Biscarrosse Laouadie Equestrian Center
In Biscarrosse, between the village and the beach, Biscarrosse Laouadie equestrian center offers custom trail rides every day, from 1 to 3 hours long. The horses know the marked trails by heart and will take you for a calm ride. Horses for adults, ponies and even shetlands for little ones ages 2 and up are waiting for you and your family. Riding lessons adapted to your level are offered à la carte.
