Discover Hostens: Lakes, Forest and Cycling Routes

A stay in Hostens is best explored through nature and outdoor activities. The Domaine nature et de loisirs d’Hostens covers 730 hectares in the Landes girondines forest and includes five lakes. One of them is designated for water sports and swimming. Access and swimming conditions may vary seasonally; check the latest information before planning a specific activity.

Lakes and protected areas

The Domaine is classified as an Espace Naturel Sensible and a Natura 2000 site. These designations shape the natural character of the area, where water and forest landscapes come together. The Réserve biologique d’Hostens et des lagunes du Gât Mort offers another perspective on nature: it covers 481.91 hectares. Around Lac de Bousquey, the reserve is home to numerous protected plant and animal species.

Access to the Réserve is free. Pedestrians, cyclists and riders may move around only on the signposted trails, including the GR®6. When planning your visit, the chosen activity is not the only thing that matters: you must also stick to the marked trails. An educational trail and an ornithological observatory have been established at Marais du Cla. The two facilities offer different perspectives: the educational trail provides a route for exploring the area, while the observatory offers a connection to birdlife. Check local access and route information before your visit.

Cycling in and around Hostens

The Domaine offers three green mountain bike routes, measuring 8, 11 and 16 kilometres. Their distances make it easy to compare the length of each route; optional red and black loops are also available. You can first plan around your preferred distance and then consider the loops as additional route options. The routes on offer and access may be affected by safety or fire restrictions.

The Scandibérique offers a different way to find your bearings. From Hostens, it follows a developed green route eastwards towards Bazas and continues as far as Langon. The section near Hostens passes through the peaceful scenery of a pine forest. The cycling options therefore differ in focus: the three mountain bike routes have specific distances, while the Scandibérique indicates a direction and continues on to Bazas and Langon. Construction work or temporary restrictions may affect the route; check the latest information before setting off.

More activities and culture

Les Écuries du Lac d’Hostens offers horse-riding activities in nature. These include introductory and discovery sessions, trail rides, vaulting and riding games. Trail rides in the Landes and around the lakes of Hostens are also listed. If you have a particular activity in mind, confirm its availability directly with the provider.

The history of Lac d’Hostens offers a different perspective from today’s nature and leisure activities: beneath its clear waters lay one of the largest lignite deposits in the early 1930s. The Chapelle Sainte-Catherine provides another cultural point of interest. This simple Gothic church dates from the 16th century and has restored wall paintings. If you want to give different weight to nature, outdoor activities, and architectural or industrial history when planning your trip, these themes offer different ways to shape your stay.

Discover more destinations: Cérons, Villenave-Dʼornon, Castillon-La-Bataille, Pyla Sur Mer, Marions, Arbis, Fargues, Toulenne

For the main travel overview: Gironde.