The Landes offers an exceptional natural setting for hiking enthusiasts. Between pine forests, protected marshes and coastal paths, the area around Orx is perfect for rejuvenating walks. Here are 10 must-do hikes to discover during your stay!

1. Loop around the Marais d’Orx nature reserve

This walk allows you to explore the Marais d’Orx reserve, a veritable birdwatching paradise. You’ll spot storks, herons and other migratory species. A specially-designed trail lets you enjoy the scenery without disturbing the wildlife. More info here.

Start: Maison de la Réserve, Orx
Distance: 7 km
Duration : 1h30
Level : Easy

2. Barthes de l’Adour trail

The barthes are vast floodplains frequented by semi-free-roaming herds of horses. The fauna is rich: storks, egrets, grey herons… You may also spot horses and cows. Avoid after heavy rain, as the barthes are flood-prone. Find out more here.

Start : Tercis-lès-Bains
Distance : 11,5 km
Duration : 3h20
Level : Easy

3. Côte Sauvage Loop in Labenne

This hike alternates between forest trails (maritime pines, cork oaks, arbutus, oak, gorse and broom) and the beach, offering superb panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Ideal for nature lovers, you’ll also come across the remains of blockhouses dating back to the Second World War. We recommend the “circuit bleu“.

Start : Rond point de l’Europe à Labenne
Distance : 7,5 km
Duration : 1h30
Level : Easy

4. Lac d’Hossegor circuit

This route runs along the coast as far as Notre-Dame beach. It then follows the course of the Boudigou and circumnavigates Lac d’Hossegor. An ideal way to discover this charming coastal town. More info here.

Start : South beach of Hossegor
Distance : 10 km
Duration : 2h10
Level : Easy to Medium

5. Massif des Forges de l’Adour trail in Tarnos

A great spot for a nature hike. Plenty of parking, picnic tables, different types of paths to suit all needs: wide paths for running or walking the dog, bike paths, almost wild paths through woods and grasses.

Start : Plage de Métro à Tarnos
Distance : 2 à 9 km
Duration : 1h à 3h00
Level : Easy to Medium

6. Tuc des neuf églises tour in Capbreton

In Capbreton, the Tuc des Neuf Églises trail plunges you into the heart of Landes history and nature. This hike offers a varied itinerary between pine forests, sandy paths and panoramic views of the coastline. The vegetation is atypical and unspoilt. And when you leave the beaten track to reach the dunes, you’ll be able to contemplate the ocean breaking over the Landes coast.

Start : La Pointe campsite parking lot, Capbreton
Distance : 9,7 km
Duration : 2h30
Level : Medium

7. Sentier de la dune à Capbreton

This seaside walk offers an exceptional panorama of the Atlantic and the dune belt that borders it. Along the way, educational panels reveal the secrets of this fragile environment: its geological history, the richness of its fauna and the diversity of its flora. You’ll come across Darry Perier’s bunkers, the unusual Vin des Dunes vineyard, and the astonishing features of the grey dune.

Start : Santocha Beach, Capbreton
Distance : 3 km
Duration : 2h
Level : Medium

8. Étang Noir trail in Seignosse

Ideal for a short family outing, this stilted trail crosses a lush wetland. The mysterious, unspoilt Etang Noir contrasts with the more open landscapes of the Landes beaches.

Start : Seignosse
Distance : 3 km
Duration : 1h
Level : Very easy

9. Barthes de l’Ardanavy

Ardanavy is the name of one of the Adour’s southern tributaries, west of Urt. The protected area is a balanced blend of man’s work and that of nature. L’Ardanavy is bordered by the GR8 and the cycle path linking Bayonne to Orthez, while a footpath makes a loop along the Ardanavy. Our favorite is the metal railway bridge that spans the Ardanavy. A wonderful opportunity to discover the barthes, floodplains close to the Adour river.

Start : Urcuit
Distance : 8,5 km
Duration : 2h30
Level : Easy

10. Courant d’Huchet trail

This trail follows the Courant d’Huchet, a small river that flows through a lush forest before emptying into the ocean. Nicknamed the “Landes Amazon”, this site is a must for nature lovers. Find out more here.

Start : Léon
Distance : flexible
Duration : 2h30
Level : Easy to medium

Tips for hiking in the Landes

Bring good walking shoes, especially for the sandy trails.
Bring water, as some paths are in direct sunlight.
Respect nature and leave no trace of your passage.
Check the weather forecast before setting out, especially in summer when the heat can be intense.

These hikes will enable you to discover the diversity of the Landes countryside, with its forests, marshes and wild beaches. Whether you’re a fan of leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone!

Looking for a nature break in the heart of the Landes? Book our gîte in Orx now and enjoy the ideal setting for exploring these magnificent trails!