Biscarrosse

The Musée de l'Hydraviation in Biscarrosse explores the rich history of hydroaviation, deeply tied to the region. It houses an impressive collection, from early seaplanes to modern developments. Biscarrosse once served as a central base for transatlantic flights, notably for the legendary Latécoère aircraft connecting Europe with America. The museum features original aircraft, detailed models, historical documents, and engines, illustrating the technical evolution and pioneers of the era. Gain deep insight into the challenges and triumphs of aviation history over water. Exhibits are structured chronologically and thematically, ensuring comprehensive understanding. Our tip: Visit in the morning to explore the exhibits peacefully before larger groups arrive. Pay special attention to the restored cockpits, offering a feel for the era's flight experience.

Biscarrosse-Plage is the resort of the municipality on the Côte d'Argent in the Landes, with a wide sandy beach directly on the Atlantic. In the 20th century, it developed into a holiday resort. There is a promenade with cafés, restaurants, and shops; beyond it lie the pine forests of the Landes with cycling and hiking trails. Surfers regularly find good waves here. Strong currents are common in the Atlantic; only swim at marked beach sections supervised during summer. Our Tip: Outside July and August, it's much calmer, and a sunset stroll on the beach is rewarding.

The Great Lakes of Biscarrosse, comprising the Lac de Cazaux et de Sanguinet and the Lac de Biscarrosse et de Parentis, form a unique freshwater paradise in the Landes region. These natural waters are not only an ecologically valuable habitat but also historically played a role in local fishing and later as the site for the Hydro-Aviation Base, which made Biscarrosse an important seaplane centre. Today, you'll find calm waters here, often warmer than the Atlantic, surrounded by extensive pine forests. You can enjoy a variety of water sports, from stand-up paddling and sailing to swimming on the shallow sandy beaches, which are particularly suitable for families. Our tip: To enjoy the greatest peace and avoid the crowds, it's best to visit the lakes during the off-season or early in the morning. For picturesque views and relaxed hours, a stroll along the lakeside paths away from the main beaches is recommended, for example, on the northern shore of Lac de Cazaux.

The pine forests of Biscarrosse are the result of a large-scale reforestation project from the 19th century that stabilized the migrating dunes of Landes and drained swamps. Today, they offer an extensive network of well-maintained cycle paths. On these mostly flat routes, you can enjoy the fresh forest air and tranquility away from the coastal bustle. The paths often connect the lakes of Biscarrosse with the Atlantic and offer diverse views. Our tip: Visit the paths in spring or autumn for pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors. Take enough water with you, as refreshment stops along the routes are limited.

The **Musée de l'Hydraviation** in Biscarrosse is dedicated to the history of seaplanes. Aircraft manufacturer Latécoère established a base on Lac de Biscarrosse et de Parentis in 1930, where he tested his flying boats. By the late 1930s, transatlantic flying boat services to America departed from here. The museum showcases flying boats, models, engines, documents, and photographs illustrating the development of seaplane aviation and its pilots. Our tip: Combine your visit with a lakeside stroll near the former base.

Biscarrosse-Plage, a well-known seaside resort on the French Atlantic coast, developed into a hub for beach tourism and water sports in the 20th century. The region is also historically linked to aviation, particularly through the development of seaplanes on the nearby Lake Biscarrosse. Today, you'll find an expansive sandy beach stretching for several kilometers, flanked by characteristic dunes. The strong Atlantic waves make Biscarrosse-Plage a popular destination for surfers and bodyboarders of all levels. Along the promenade, you'll discover a selection of restaurants and cafés offering local specialties. Our Tip: To avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy the beach's tranquility, visit it preferably in the early morning hours or late afternoon. For stunning photos of the sunset over the Atlantic, position yourself on the dunes.