The 10 best family excursions around Messanges

Are you looking for new adventures and unforgettable moments to share with your family? Then look no further! Camping Le Vieux Port in Messanges is the ideal starting point for exploring the treasures of the Landes. Here is our selection of the 10 best family excursions around Messanges for a successful and rewarding holiday.

1. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve

Discover the wild beauty of the Courant d'Huchet nature reserve. Take a boat trip and immerse yourself in the heart of this "Landes Amazon". Children will love observing the local flora and fauna while listening to the boatmen's fascinating stories. You can also visit the reserve on foot, thanks to the 15km of signposted footpaths through the reserve's undergrowth.

When should you go? From spring to autumn, you can be with guides who will show you around and share their knowledge of this natural beauty.

2. Lac de Léon

Lac de Léon is a must-see destination for families. Enjoy a day of swimming, pedal-boating, stand-up paddling and so many other water activities! Shaded picnic areas and children's play areas guarantee a day full of relaxation and fun. What's more, you can try your hand at fishing: from the banks or from a boat, you can catch a few trophy fish from the bottom of one of the largest lakes in the Landes.

Please note: as the campsite is located right next to the Courant d'Huchet nature reserve, we recommend a number of hiking trails from the Pichelèbe bridge, which will take you back along the signposted paths of this "Landes Amazon", a natural jewel in the Landes département.

3. The Marquèze Ecomuseum

Travel back in time at the Écomusée de Marquèze, located in Sabres. Explore rural life in the Landes in the 19th century through traditional houses, craft demonstrations and farm animals. An educational and entertaining excursion for young and old alike.

And what else? While you're there, you'll discover one of France's very first eco-museums, built in a 25-hectare Landes airial. As well as a vintage train with carriages listed as historic monuments, the whole family will be delighted to have access to the Marquèze district and the Pavillon exhibitions. The history of the Landes with its animals and other fun activities will soon hold no more secrets for you...

4. Adventure park at Moliets

For a dose of adrenalin, head to the Adrénaline Parc adventure park in Moliets! With climbing routes to suit all ages, there's something for everyone. Giant zip-lines and suspension bridges promise thrills in complete safety. Designed for children aged 5 and over to adults of all abilities, you too can join the largest adventure course on the Landes coast. With family or friends, this leisure park in the heart of the Landes forest is the perfect place to challenge yourself and experience the ultimate thrill.

Good to know: in addition to the 25+ adventure trails, you can try your hand at quad biking and mini motorbikes, play paintball or even try your hand at a catapult!

5. The beaches of the Atlantic coast

There's nothing like a day at the beach to delight the whole family. The beaches of Messanges, Moliets and Vieux-Boucau offer vast stretches of fine sand, ideal for swimming, sandcastles and seaside picnics. A veritable pearl on the Côte d'Argent, they're a paradise for lovers of nature, tranquillity and the ocean. Clean, well-maintained and stretching to the horizon, you'll have plenty of time to relax and unwind. The idleness will be all rest, except for your eyes, which will be spoilt for choice!

During the summer season, lifeguards will be on hand, so you can take it easy with your children and enjoy the refreshing waves on the shore during the hottest days of the summer.

Tip: and if you want to practise beforehand, why not try out our wave simulator or wave pool first? It's the perfect opportunity to build up your confidence and get to grips with the unspoilt nature of the Landes coastline.

6. Labenne Zoo

Labenne Zoo is the perfect outing for animal lovers. More than 300 animals from 5 continents live in this 5-hectare family zoo. More than 65 species will take you on a journey as close to nature as possible. Children can get up close and personal with these exotic and local species, take part in the feedings and enjoy the play areas and food outlets. A day full of discovery and laughter surrounded by birds, mammals and reptiles.

The best thing about this place? A unique experience awaits you, with the opportunity for the most committed among you to sponsor an animal and even become a junior or adult caretaker for the day.

7. Cycling on the Vélodyssée

The Vélodyssée, a cycle path along the Atlantic coast, is ideal for a family bike ride. Hire bikes and explore the magnificent landscapes of the Landes region, with its beaches, pine forests and peaceful lakes. Passing through Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains or Capbreton, you can look forward to many kilometres and hours of family cycling. On the spot, discover all the local nuggets to discover the richness of this colourful and cheerful department. Looking for inspiration? We've put together the perfect itinerary for your week's cycling in the Landes.

Picnic and swimming stops will make the trip even more enjoyable. By the ocean, in a park or near a body of water, you'll be in the heart of nature and right next to the squirrels that have made their home in the oaks, pines and other trees typical of the region. Get your hazelnuts and dried fruit ready, you'll be met by eyes looking for a few crumbs 😉

Good to know: the Accueil Vélo and Vélodyssée labels are part of the principles of Le Vieux Port campsite *****, so you're guaranteed to benefit from services and facilities adapted to two-wheeled cycling!

8. The caves of Sare

For a fascinating underground adventure, visit the Caves of Sare in the Basque Country. Discover the amazing rock formations and learn about the geological and mythological history of this region. A unique experience that will capture children's imaginations. These caves are one of the most visited sites in the Pyrénées-Atlantique department. From the typical village of Sare to the foot of the Rhune and Axuria mountains, plunge into a journey of over 2 million years to retrace the life of this land through a "sound and light" tour divided between different parts of the cave.

What's next? Add to your knowledge at the museum and megalithic park after your visit to these heritage sites.

9. Local markets

Explore the local markets in Hossegor, Capbreton and Vieux-Boucau to immerse yourself in Landes culture. Sample local produce, discover local crafts and let the kids pick out typical souvenirs. If you wish, you can go to the market every day of the week, depending on which seaside resort you visit. Each locality has its own charm and local producers. The hardest part will be knowing which speciality to bring back to prolong the taste of your holiday in the Landes...

Our tip: each region has its own ecosystem. In the Landes, home of the heather plant, the bees make a fruity, tangy honey that's excellent for all your dishes, desserts and snacks. A delicious way to share the plant's vitamins with your body every day 😋

10. The Contis lighthouse

Climb to the top of the Contis Lighthouse for a spectacular panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes forest. The only lighthouse in the Landes, this building has stood the test of time and the elements for around 200 years. Don't be fooled by its unique "barber shop" look: if you want to enjoy the view, you'll have to earn it with a bit of sport as you climb the 192 steps. Visible from over 40km away, there's a small museum on site to help you learn more about it and... So many stories to share with your family and friends on your return!

Good to know: located less than 1 hour's drive from Le Vieux Port 5* campsite, this is an activity that combines adventure and history. Perfect for a family outing!

The area around Messanges is full of activities and excursions for all the family. Whether you're into nature, sport or cultural discovery, there's something for everyone. Bonus: treasure hunts to discover geocaching in the Landes! Make the most of your stay at camping Le Vieux Port to experience unforgettable moments and strengthen family ties through these enriching getaways.