Our Region - La Chalosse / Les Landes
Ideally located within easy reach of the Pyrenees moutains, the Atlantic Beaches and the Spanish border
We are located in the Chalosse region of Les Landes in South West France, just an hour and a half from the Pyrenees and one hour from the sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast.
The southwest remains comparatively little known to foreign visitors. The Landaise coastline is famous for its sailing, surfing, outdoor sports, and fresh markets. The vibrant town of Hossegor plays host each year to international surfing competitions.
In the other direction, the Pyrenees offer breathtaking scenery and countless opportunities for hiking, from gentle valley walks to more challenging mountain trails—all doable as day trips. For a taste of Spain, the stylish coastal city of San Sebastián is also within easy reach, known for its stunning bay, cultural events, and world-renowned tapas bars.
Local traditions & festivals
Montaut celebrates its annual fête during the last week of August, with music, a fun run, communal street dining (repas dans la rue), and the Course Landaise—a traditional and much-loved form of bullfighting unique to Les Landes.
The region is also alive with music festivals throughout the summer. Nearby Saint-Sever hosts the L’Art Scène de Rue Festival, while Mont-de-Marsan hosts world-class performers for The Arte Flamenco each July. Jazz lovers flock to Marciac for its two-week international jazz festival starting the last week in July.
Historic Towns & Architecture
Our area is rich in history, with many charming towns to explore nearby. Just 7 km away, Saint Sever situated on the Voie de Vézelay pilgrim route toward Saint Jacques de Compostelle. The town boasts six historic monuments, the most renowned being its 11C Benedictine Abbey listed as a historic monument by UNESCO in 1911.
A short drive takes you to Brassempouy, home to one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric figurines. Mont-de-Marsan blends heritage and culture with its medieval streets and museums, while Labastide-d’Armagnac enchants with its beautifully preserved bastide square. Bayonne, with its half-timbered houses and Basque spirit, is perfect for a day trip. And there are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Gastronomy
For gastronomic experiences, the world-renowned chef, Michel Guérard’s offers two restaurants in Eugénie les Bains; Les Prés d’Eugénie, which has held 3 Michelin Stars since 1977 and La Ferme Aux Grives offering wonderful hearty local food.
Within the same grounds, The Ferme Thermale Spa offers spa treatments with the deep benefits of the town’s age old thermal springs.
The Spa town of Dax was home to the first spa complex built in 1894. Clemenceau, Sarah Bernhardt, Sacha Guitry and celebrities from all walks of life contributed to giving a prestigious touch to thermalism in the town. Check out Splendid Hotel Spa and Sourceo.
Cycling
This area of France, Les Landes, is fantastic for cycling, offering something for everyone—from casual riders to serious cyclists.
The tourist office in Saint-Sever provides a great resource: a collection of 50 different cycling routes varying in length and difficulty, covering the diverse landscapes of Les Landes. These include routes through the local countryside, to historic landmarks, through pine forests, and along the Atlantic coast.
The scenic ‘voie verte de Chalosse’ (greenway) follows an old railway line through Montaut. It connects to Saint-Sever in one direction and stretches about 40 km in the other direction to the spa town of Dax.
Another popular, mostly flat ride is the dedicated cycle path from Mont-de-Marsan to the beautiful medieval bastide town of Labastide-d’Armagnac.
For even more route options, apps like Komoot or Bikemap are great for discovering quiet country roads and planning rides throughout the region.
Brocantes
Locally throughout the year many local villages and towns hold annual vide greniers, a chance to hunt out and buy a few bargains!
Pau bric à brac – every Saturday morning; Dax Antique market – first Thursday of the month; Mont de Marsan – first Wednesday of every month; Mont de Marsan – annual antique fair in May; Port de Lanne annual antique fair in August, where most of the village is packed with antique and brocante stalls and Bayonne – every Friday.
The Mountains
Some of the finest hiking in the Pyrenees is easily accessible as a day trip. A highly recommended option is a scenic circuit around Lescun, a 2–3 hour walk that climbs 270 metres above the village and offers spectacular views year-round.
For those seeking more of a challenge, summiting Pic d’Anie or Pic d’Ansabère is achievable in a day. The area around Pic du Midi d’Ossau also offers many beautiful trails—on a hot day, don’t miss the chance to cool off with a swim in one of the mountain lakes.
After your hike, Lescun is the perfect place to relax with a cold beer and take in the views.
The coast
The southwest coast of France is a stunning stretch of Atlantic shoreline, known for its wide sandy beaches, pine forests, and laid-back charm.
Coastal towns like Bayonne, with its Basque heritage and lively markets, and elegant Biarritz, once a favourite of European royalty, offer culture, history, and seaside sophistication.
Further north, the coastline becomes wilder and more relaxed, with Hossegor at its heart—a vibrant surf town famous for world-class waves, hosting international surf competitions each year.
Nearby towns such as Capbreton and Seignosse also draw beach lovers and surfers alike, offering miles of unspoiled coastline, lively cafés, and a strong connection to the outdoors.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, catch a wave, or explore seaside towns full of character, the southwest coast has something for everyone.
Local information
Guide de Landes – Festive events
Getting around in Landes – includes transportation to and within, plus things to do
How to get to Landes – transportation options
The Atlantic Coast – tourist information
Live Webcams – Atlantic Coast
Centre Aquatique de la Cité Verte – Hagetmau