Landes forest, Maritime pine forest in New Aquitaine, France.
The Landes forest extends over 14,000 square kilometers between the Garonne Estuary and Adour River, containing numerous lakes and walking paths throughout the woodland.
The transformation of marshlands into forest began in 1801 when maritime pines were planted to stabilize sand dunes and create economic opportunities for the region.
Local residents adapted to the former marshy terrain by developing a practice of walking on stilts, which became a defining characteristic of the regional heritage.
The forest contains networks of marked trails, cycling paths, and camping areas, with information centers providing maps and guidance for outdoor activities.
This forest represents the largest planted woodland in Western Europe, producing substantial quantities of timber, resin, and paper products for industrial use.
Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine
GPS coordinates: 44.18000,-0.58220
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:36
The Landes region in southwestern France extends from the foothills of the Pyrénées to the Atlantic coast, encompassing extensive pine forests, coastal lakes and protected natural areas. The Landes de Gascogne regional nature park forms the heart of this landscape, while reserves such as the Courant d'Huchet and Arjuzanx provide habitats for migratory birds and native species. The lakes of Biscarrosse, Soustons and Aureilhan lie between forest and dunes, offering opportunities for water sports and birdwatching. Along the coast, beach resorts like Mimizan Plage, Hossegor and Capbreton attract visitors, while the Dune du Pilat south of the region stands as Europe's tallest sand dune, reaching 350 feet (110 meters) in height. The open-air museum at Marquèze in Sabres recreates the traditional architecture and way of life of the Landes in the 19th century. Mont-de-Marsan, the historic capital, combines modern administration with regional heritage. Churches such as Dax Cathedral, Sainte-Eulalie in Born and the churches at Saint-Paul-lès-Dax and Onesse-et-Laharie display Romanesque and Gothic construction from the medieval period. The châteaux of Poyanne and Gaujacq date from later centuries and reflect the architecture of regional noble estates. These sites can be reached via roads and marked trails, offering insights into the nature and history of the Landes.
Marquèze
16.1 km
Ecomusée de Marquèze
13.6 km
Château Suau
7.1 km
Anciennes forges de Brocas
15.7 km
Commanderie de Bessaut
19 km
Château d'Aon
15.4 km
Musée des forges de Brocas
15.6 km
Église Saint-Michel
13.1 km
Atelier des produits résineux de Luxey
10.6 km
Porte des Anglais
16.8 km
Lagunes de Brocas
13.7 km
Église de Garein
15.9 km
Crèche de Commensacq
19.5 km
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Brocas
15.5 km
Église Notre-Dame de la Nativité de Guinas
20.2 km
Église Saint-Jean-l'Évangéliste de Lencouacq
16.7 km
Église Saint-Martin de Commensacq
19.5 km
Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Sore
15.9 km
Graine de Forêt
15.9 km
Ancienne église de Brocas
15.5 km
Église Saint-Vincent de Vert
10 km
Église de Trensacq
14 km
Église Saint-Laurent-et-Saint-Girons de Luglon
15.2 km
Église Saint-Médard
9 km
1914-1918 war memorial
9 km
Église Notre-Dame de Cachen
17.3 km
Église Notre-Dame de Bélis
16.2 km
Église Notre-Dame du Mont-Carmel du Sen
8.8 kmReviews
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