© Guillaume Madec
Parc Naturel Regional des Landes de Gascogne, Bordeaux Region (Gironde)
Covering an area of 315,000 hectares across Gironde & Les Landes
Created in 1970, this national park helps to preserve the balance between nature and leisure, protecting and developing the area's heritage.
Cycling along little roads, walking along marked trails and paths, canoeing or kayaking on the river Leyre, horse riding on the forest tracks. There are many ways for the visitor to start to uncover some of the natural and cultural heritage of this country. The park offers a wide range of activities and information for visitors.
Situated on one of the most important migratory routes, the area of the park at the Bassin d'Arcachon is home to over 300,000 migrant birds. Footpaths and constructed hides allow you to observe and experience this wonderful side of nature.
Within the park you will also find the Marqueze Open Air Museum which was one of the first of its kind in France and illustrates how the Grande Lande region was transformed, socially and economically, through forest development.
The park is open every day throughout the summer months from April until September.
Visitor comments
- "This is a most interesting site. it brings you back to the 19th century and how life was in the country. It is a recreated and in some examples, buildings we're actually transplanted here from their original place. Allow at least 3 hours. The ride is about 10 minutes. You then take a walk around and see all the different exhibits. Part of it is a beautiful walk through the forest with a stream. The cost is 11.50 Euros per person and if you are over 65 it is 9 euros, even for Americans! There is a little restaurant stop along the way for a picnic. So you do not have to buy anything at the restaurant at the entrance. if you wish to wait until later it would be fine. Look at the map they give you so you can try and time the train ride back. It is not a difficult walk all around and is most interesting. I give it an excellent considering it is unique thus a five-star for its class" - Trip Advisor
