Cycling through the Landes, from Arcachon to Hendaye

A free day in the town. Make the most of it to explore the iconic landscape of the Dune du Pilat, the tallest dune in Europe. Do give it a go and climb to the top to admire the view over the Arcachon Bay, the ocean and the forests. Arrival in Arcachon and check-in at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Today, you set off on a great crossing of the Landaise forest; playing leapfrog with the dunes along the way. Shortly before Biscarosse beach, the Vélodyssée passes seamlessly from the Gironde into Les Landes. Warm and welcoming, gastronomy remains central to landaise traditions. Let yourself be tempted by these delights in Biscarrosse. 
Night in the town of Biscarosse.

This stage takes you along the banks of the Lac de Biscarrosse: a base for the assembly and testing of the largest French seaplanes. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to see some? You will also cycle between the ‘étangs’ (saltwater ponds) whose blue hue gradually replaces that of the sea. These are key reserves for biodiversity: protected plant, bird and mammal species. You eventually arrive at the seafront resort of Mimizan Plage.

After the liveliness of Mimizan Plage, find peace in the pine forests. Wood cut from the forest near the town is used to produce Kraft paper and packaging. This connecting stage towards the ocean provides you with the chance to take a relaxed ride in the shade of the forest whilst enjoying the odor of the pine trees. And for a change from the ocean, why not take a dip in the Lac de Léon ? After, you take a gentle ride along the old Léon to Soustons railway line to arrive at Vieux Boucau.
Night in Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains

Vieux Boucau stands at the former mouth of the River Adour and it is from here that you climb back in the saddle to follow the coast and what constitutes the longest sandy beach in Europe (106 km), ideal for lovers of sun, dips in the sea and drama ! Because this is the kingdom of surf and waves ! You are welcomed into the Basque country with, as always, an ocean backdrop. You reach the iconic sunshine resorts of Hossegor and Capbreton, the only fishing port in the Landes region. As you cross Bayonne, allow yourself to get lost in its streets before reaching Biarritz and its large beach.
Night in Biarritz.

Biarritz - one of the most prestigious seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast: with its huge beach, casino, clifftops and the Esplanade de la Vierge…head to the Marché dans les Halles where piment d’Espelette, foie gras and landaise asparagus await you. You then head south. This final stage requires a little more sporting effort, but you will be handsomely rewarded with exceptional ocean views. Cross the towns of Bidart, Guéthary (an old fishing port)…in St-Jean-de-Luz don’t miss out on a walk along the lively fishing port (sardines, anchovies, tuna…). Then, the final stretch towards Hendaye. End your trip surrounded by beauty, following a superb route on the Basque corniche, taking you down into the town and to the beachfront. 
End of trip in Hendaye.