Southern Landes by bike: Terroir, History and Art of Living (7 days by bike):

Head toward the City of Three Rivers via the Scandibérique. This scenic route takes you to Mont-de-Marsan, a city of sculpture where water and art come together at the confluence of the Douze and Midou rivers.

Suggested activities:

• Visit the Despiau-Wlérick Museum (sculpture)

• Stroll along the banks of the Midouze

• Explore the Lacataye Keep

• Sample local specialties at Les Halles.

A stage that immerses you in the history of the fortified towns of the Landes region. You’ll pass through wooded landscapes before reaching Roquefort, a charming medieval town perched on a rocky outcrop and the gateway to the Armagnac region.

Suggested activities:

• Admire the fortified church of Sainte-Marie

• Explore the remains of the ramparts

• Take a stroll along the banks of the Estampon

• Enjoy a glass of Floc de Gascogne on a terrace

The landscape is dotted with vineyards along this regal stretch. You’ll arrive in Labastide-d’Armagnac, one of the most beautiful bastides in France, whose Place Royale is said to have inspired the Place des Vosges in Paris. A true journey back in time.

Suggested activities:

• Visit the Armagnac Ecomuseum

• Admire the Place Royale

• Discover the Cyclists’ Chapel (Notre-Dame des Cyclistes)

• Visit an Armagnac aging cellar.

A route rich in architectural heritage. Along the way, Ravignan Castle and the Hontanx Tower bear witness to the region’s former power. You’ll end your journey in Grenade-sur-l’Adour, a fortified town founded on the banks of the river.

Suggested activities:

• Visit the Château de Ravignan (18th century)

• See the fortified Tower of Hontanx

• Explore the Gothic church in Grenade

• Enjoy a moment of peace on the banks of the Adour.

An eclectic route that takes you past the famous Notre-Dame-du-Rugby Chapel and the elegant gardens of Eugénie-les-Bains. The stage ends on the heights of Brassempouy, home to the famous “Lady with the Hood.”

Suggested activities:

• Reflect at Notre-Dame-du-Rugby

• Stroll through the Jardin des Thermes d'Eugénie

• See the Guillay megalith

• Visit the Brassempouy Prehistoric Site.

You’ll travel through the rolling countryside of Chalosse to reach Saint-Sever. This historic town overlooks the Adour River and is home to a monumental abbey listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Suggested activities:

• Visit the Abbey Church of Saint-Sever (UNESCO)

• Explore the Jacobins Convent

• Enjoy the panoramic view from the Morlanne lookout point

• Sample a Landes farm-raised duck.

For this final leg, you’ll follow the Adour Valley back to your starting point. The terrain becomes gentler, offering you a peaceful end to your trip through the rural and authentic landscapes of southern Landes.

Suggested activities:

• Visit the Gallo-Roman ramparts of Dax

• Treat yourself to a thermal mud treatment

• Buy fresh Madeleines de Dax

• Celebrate the end of your trip with a final Gascon meal.