The Landes department is a picturesque region located in southwestern France, occupying the southern half of the
Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Landes has a rich historical past, having been one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution in 1790. The Landes was formed from parts of the provinces of Guyenne and Gascony. The Landes department is bordered by the departments of Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne,
Gers, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, as well as the Atlantic Ocean to the west. With an area of over 9000 km², the Landes is the second-largest department in metropolitan France, after Gironde.
Discover Landes - Houses & Lifestyle in Landes
The Landes department is a picturesque region located in southwestern France, occupying the southern half of the
Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Landes has a rich historical past, having been one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution in 1790. The Landes was formed from parts of the provinces of Guyenne and Gascony. The Landes department is bordered by the departments of Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne,
Gers, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, as well as the Atlantic Ocean to the west. With an area of over 9000 km², the Landes is the second-largest department in metropolitan France, after Gironde.
Sheep Farming in the Landes
During the first half of the 19th century, large areas of the department were covered with poorly drained heathland, locally known as "Lande." The vegetation-rich soil was regularly burned, providing excellent pasturage for sheep. Sheep farming was the main economic activity in the Landes at that time, with estimates suggesting that between 900,000 and 1,000,000 sheep lived there. Sheep farming in the Landes was unique, with shepherds walking on stilts to tend their flocks and cover long distances. These stilts were essential tools for navigating the swampy terrain and maintaining a distinct way of life.
Transformation of the Landscape
However, in the second half of the 19th century, the local economy and landscape experienced a significant change. Large pine plantations were systematically established, leading to most sheep leaving the Landes. The growth of these plantations turned the region into a busy centre of forestry and timber production, offering locals an alternative livelihood.
A Tourist Haven
Despite these modifications, Landes continues to be a popular tourist destination due to its breathtaking natural landscapes and distinctive cultural heritage. It is especially renowned for the Côte d'Argent beach, Europe's longest, which draws numerous surfers to Mimizan and Hossegor annually. Additionally, Landes features various other attractions such as charming market villages, historic sites, museums, and local culinary specialties.
Key Information about the Landes (40)
- Main City/Prefecture: Mont-de-Marsan
- Nearest Airport: Biarritz Pays Basque Airport or Bordeaux
- Population: Around 415,000 (as of the latest census)
- Area: 9,243 sq. kilometres and 3,569 sq. miles
- Landmark: Dune du Pilat (shared with Gironde), the tallest sand dune in Europe, with amazing Ocean views.
- Number of Tourists/Year: +/-3.5 million, visiting its beaches, vast pine forests and outdoor activities (surfing and cycling).
Property Prices in Landes in 2026
- Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,494 (April 2026)
- Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €3,545 (April 2026)
- Price trends: +1% over the last 12 months, +40% over the last 5 years (April 2026)
House Prices in the Main Towns in Landes in 2026
- Average House Price in Mont‑de‑Marsan: €2,002 per sq. metre (April 2026)
- Average House Price in Dax: €2,412 per sq. metre (April 2026)
- Average House Price in Biscarrosse: €3,554 per sq. metre (April 2026)
(source:
Le Figaro Immobilier)
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