Irrigated by the river Vézère, marked by its medieval history, punctuated by historical buildings, the city of Montignac deploys a picturesque beauty. Be seduced by the charm of the former Saint Jean hospital, the little medieval Pégerie road, the beautiful convent of the Clarisses, the sumptuous Château Hautefort and, of course, the majestic Hotel de Bouihac…

Crédit photos : © OT Montignac

The Lascaux Cave is certainly the most beautiful decorated cave of the Paleolithic. Sometimes referred to as “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory”, it is listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site of the Vézère Valley. For reasons of preservation it may no longer be visited. A superb facsimile opened in 2016 at the International Centre for Cave Painting in Montignac to present an almost complete copy of the original site to the public.

Another site nearby testifies to human presence in the region during prehistory: the Regourdou. In this former cave whose ceiling collapsed, excavations have revealed remains of Neanderthal men and bears. The site is now prepared for visits and includes a bear park and a museum.

Crédit photos : © Dan Courtice

The Island of Ré is an important ornithological reserve. The national nature reserve of Lilleau des Niges sees tens of thousands of birds migrate every year and almost 320 species are listed. A living natural heritage which will be appreciated by both children and adults.

The Ferias are the traditional popular festivals which are organised in the cities of Gascony throughout the summer. Based on a Spanish tradition, they include races of Landes bulls or cows. During almost one week the streets are dominated by celebrations, during the day and during the night. The most famous Ferias of the region are those of Bayonne, Mont de Marsan and Dax. As legendary features of the region they have been part of the inventory of the intangible cultural heritage of France since 2010.

The beaches around Lake Léon offer the security and tranquillity of a fresh water. Many different activities are proposed. You can for instance enjoy stand-up paddling. Ideal beaches for families!

Close to the Maisons Marines, the sumptuous Golf de Moliets offers a magnificent 18-hole course with a stunning view of the ocean and a nine-hole course at the heart of the Landes forest.

Many cycle tracks cross the Landes coast and its wild sceneries. Rent bikes at the Maisons Marines, take your picnic and pamper yourself with a happy family excursion.

The Maisons Marines are located on the verge of the nature reserve of the Courant d’Huchet. Sliding over a distance of 9 km between the Lake of Léon and the ocean, this watercourse represents an exceptional natural heritage because of the richness of its fauna and flora. In this luxurious vegetation you will appreciate the serenity and beauty of what is called the “Little Amazon of the Landes” in the best possible way by bark.

Surf is the legendary sport of the Landes coast. Its waves are acknowledged by the great international champions but also ideal for beginners to learn. If you want to be initiated to these sports, the Maisons Marines will organise for you surfing or kite surfing classes.

With its 106 km of coastline, the Landes offer their visitors fine sand beaches which are endless. Wild and often deserted, they constitute an integral part of the scenery and culture of the Landes. They represent multiple sources of activities: farniente and beach sports, sand yachting races and horseback riding…

Crédit photos : © Corentin MOSSIERE