Landes

Visas

France is a Schengen state and citizens of most European countries, USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand do not require visas. All others, including South Africans and those planning to stay more than three months, must obtain a visa from the French consulate in their home country.

Getting There

International scheduled flights to Bordeaux (BOD) for the northern spots and Biarritz (BIQ) for the more southerly spots from most countries in Europe, including many low cost airlines from the UK, and also Canada. Connecting flights with Air France from Paris.

It only takes 3hrs 2mins to get from Paris to Bordeaux on the TGV and boards are now carried for free on some routes – check before booking. Eurolines provide inter-city bus services to the main train station.

Bordeaux is a 1h drive from Biscarosse Plage while Biarritz airport is 40mins drive from Hossegor. Rent cars in train stations and airports. Drive south on the A63 (toll free) and turn off to your chosen beach town.

Getting Around

There are free car parks at most beach villages along the coast close to the spots behind the dunes. Driving on the forest trails is prohibited and the fine is massive. Bike trails are everywhere and offer good transit in the summer. A fat bike would be useful on the sand to escape the crowds.

Accommodation

Along the Landes coast holiday rentals, VVF’s and campgrounds are the go. Campervans will be fined for free-camping beach car parks during summer. Try cheaper Aire de Camping municipal sites. A typical restaurant bill is $20, not including wine. Foie gras along with duck dishes are regional favourites.

Activities

The Côte d’Argent is an endless beach skirted by sand dunes and thick forests, so it’s easy to find relative wilderness as an antidote to the busy towns. The Dune Du Pyla is the largest sand dune in Europe, worth the walk for the view over the Bassin d’Arcachon. Bordeaux vineyards are a tasty, flat-day idea. At the beach, most women are topless and full nudity is common along many stretches of the coast.

Hazards & hassles

Getting to the right spot before the short window for optimum tide is crucial as spring and autumn equinox tides move fast. Beware of the extremely powerful rips; many visitors drown every year. In the winter, beaches get plenty of trash and driftwood from the ocean. Driving and parking are tricky from mid July to late August. Look out for thieves and vandals when parking in forest spots.

Handy Hints

Gear is expensive and only a few surf shops are open year-round (especially in coastal towns). Try Escape or Surfers in Bordeaux. Try to learn some French; it will be appreciated. See Hossegor for more information.

Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.