Every summer, you hear the same old lines: "Les Landes? Too far!" "The beaches are dangerous, aren't they?" "There's nothing to do and it's too hot." If you've ever dismissed this destination because of a few stubborn clichés, this article is for you. Because behind the image of endless pine forests and tanned surfers lies a truly vibrant and rejuvenating holiday destination, especially for families. And even more so when camping.
It's too far
It's true, the Landes are not 2 hours from Paris. This southwestern department, between Bordeaux and the Basque Country, is crossed by 3 major highways: the A63 from Bordeaux to Bayonne (which serves all the Landes coastal resorts), the A62 from Bordeaux to Toulouse, and the A64 from Toulouse to Bayonne. And that's exactly what makes all the difference. By getting a little further away, you truly disconnect. No short weekends, no "we're heading back Monday lunchtime": here, you take your time.
Once you're here, you can forget the car: everything is accessible on foot or by bike from the campsite. And if the journey worries you, consider taking the train (Dax station) and renting a car upon arrival: it's a very convenient option!
It's too hot
Have you heard that it often gets very hot in Les Landes? The oceanic climate is mild and pleasant. The Atlantic Ocean has a regulating effect on temperatures. No oppressive heatwaves or sticky humidity: the weather offers the perfect balance for those who enjoy fresh air, cool nights, and outdoor activities. A thunderstorm might roll in during the evening (that's the Southwest for you!), but it passes just as quickly.
The Landes beaches are dangerous
Yes, there are waves. Yes, there are rip currents. But don't worry: most beaches in the Landes are supervised in summer, with designated swimming areas and lifeguard teams to ensure swimmers' safety. And most importantly: campsites with pools, to enjoy a variety of water activities. While the teens learn to surf, the little ones can splash around safely. The result: everyone finds their wave... or their deckchair.
There's nothing to do in Les Landes? Really?
This cliché is hard to shake. For many, Les Landes is simply about a triptych: forest, surf, and camping. Yet, as soon as you scratch beneath the surface, this department - the largest in France after Gironde - reveals a rich, festive, and varied cultural life.
Starting with the legendary férias of Dax and Mont-de-Marsan in July and August. It's a chance to celebrate to the sounds of bandas, watch traditional Landes bull races, enjoy open-air concerts and fireworks, and have fun in bodegas, bars, and restaurants open late into the night.
When it comes to music, Les Landes holds its own against other regional scenes. Every summer, the area comes alive with festivals that combine contemporary sounds with a friendly atmosphere: Musicalarue in Luxey, a true open-air artistic village; Tempos du Monde in Saint-Paul-lès-Dax, for a global musical journey; StockS'WooD in Lüe, for rock and blues enthusiasts; the Little Festival in Seignosse, where DJ sets are danced barefoot in the sand; and the Tout'Art Festival in Capbreton, which showcases street performances and visual arts.
And for those who love family exploration or want to satisfy their curiosity, Les Landes offers plenty of hidden gems: the Marquèze Ecomuseum, the fascinating Brassempouy Prehistoric Site (where the famous Lady with the Hood was discovered), the Hydraviation Museum in Biscarrosse, the Chalosse Museum in Montfort-en-Chalosse, and the Despiau-Wlérick Museum in Mont-de-Marsan.
Here, culture is enjoyed in flip-flops, to the sound of a banda, amidst a night market, with a plate of duck confit in hand. You breathe, you disconnect... and you truly return refreshed.
Is it too expensive in summer? Not necessarily
It's true: some coastal destinations can quickly blow your budget. But in Les Landes, camping remains one of the best ways to enjoy the ocean without breaking the bank: affordable and well-equipped family accommodations, included activities, abundant nature, free beach access… The real luxury is being able to enjoy countless experiences without constantly reaching for your credit card.
And no need for a restaurant every lunchtime: a picnic in the shade of the pines, dinner on the mobile home terrace, a plancha with friends… Joy is found in simplicity, with a controlled budget, without depriving yourself. As for little treats, they're everywhere: an ice cream at the end of the day, a night market, an aperitif at sunset…
What matters isn't spending a lot. It's living a lot.
No, Les Landes isn't just sand and parasols
Do you really think you'd get bored in Europe's largest forest? Have you ever explored that little corner of Les Landes nicknamed the Landes Amazon? Do you know the trendy spots for shopping in Hossegor?
Craving wild nature? Head to the Huchet Current Nature Reserve, nestled between lake and ocean, for a magical flat-bottomed boat ride. Or take a walk on the shaded trails around Lake Léon, among dragonflies, birds, tropical vegetation, and the scent of pines.
Feeling active? The Landes also offer hundreds of kilometers of bike paths, canoe trips on the Landes lakes, paddleboarding at sunrise, and treetop adventures for the more daring. And to recover? A nap on your mobile home terrace or a dip in the campsite pool.
Fancy a bit of town life? Spend a day in Hossegor, famous for its designer boutiques, concept stores, and gourmet food halls. Capbreton's pedestrian street, Seignosse's flea markets, and the small artisan workshops hidden in the Landes villages are also well worth a visit. Local life isn't always on display in shop windows.
And all of this, less than an hour from your Landes campsite. You won't be able to do it all. And that's a good thing: you'll have to come back!
The best campsite to do everything (or nothing): Le Saint Martin
Located in Moliets-Plage, with direct beach access, the 5-star Camping Le Saint Martin immerses you deep within a pine forest, nestled between forest, ocean, and cycling paths. Comfortable mobile homes, pitches under the pines, an indoor pool, entertainment for all ages, on-site shops… Everything is set for you to unpack and experience Les Landes at your own pace. Whether it's relaxing, surfing, cycling, hiking, enjoying festive ferias, or taking a shaded nap: you set the pace!
Ready to see Les Landes in a new light? Immerse yourself in the fresh sea air, raw nature, shared moments, and unexpected experiences. Discover Le Saint Martin and book your next camping stay in Les Landes!
