{{filter.label}}
Holidays in Labenne
Labenne is a small, charming coastal town in the Landes department of southwestern France, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It’s nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Landes forest, and is part of the Côte d’Argent—famous for its long, sandy beaches and surfing culture.
History of Labenne
Labenne has Basque and Gascon roots, and its name likely stems from the local dialect. It was historically a small rural village focused on agriculture and forestry.
In the 19th century, with the rise of the pine reforestation of the Landes, the area saw economic changes, including the development of the timber industry.
With the arrival of the railway in the early 20th century, Labenne became more accessible, gradually transforming into a coastal resort town.
Today, it's known for eco-tourism, family-friendly holidays, and its proximity to larger towns like Bayonne and Biarritz.
General Description
Labenne is a tranquil seaside town with a mix of ocean, forest, and countryside.
It has a long sandy beach, popular with surfers and sun-seekers.
The town is family-oriented, eco-conscious, and not overly commercialized—ideal for those looking to relax in nature.
It also includes Labenne-Océan, a more beach-focused part of town with campsites, holiday homes, and beach bars.
Food in Labenne & Landes Region
Labenne shares the rich gastronomic traditions of the Landes region. Typical dishes include:
Magret de Canard – Grilled duck breast, often served with potatoes or salad.
Confit de Canard – Duck leg preserved in its fat, a classic southwestern specialty.
Axoa – A spicy veal stew from the nearby Basque region.
Piperade – A Basque-style dish with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and eggs.
Foie Gras – Often served as a starter or holiday delicacy.
Ttoro – A Basque fish stew with garlic, tomatoes, and white wine (less common but found in nearby coastal towns).
Pastis Landais – A sweet brioche-like cake flavored with rum and orange blossom water.
Local drinks: Tursan wine, Floc de Gascogne (a sweet apéritif), and local cider or craft beer.
Activities in Labenne
Labenne offers a wide range of outdoor and family-friendly activities:
Beach & Water Sports
Surfing – Great waves and local surf schools.
Swimming & sunbathing – At Labenne-Océan beach.
Bodyboarding & paddleboarding
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Cycling – Access to the Vélodyssée bike route along the Atlantic coast.
Hiking & forest walks – Through pine forests and nature trails.
Birdwatching – Especially at the Marais d'Orx, a protected wetland reserve.
Family Activities
Labenne Zoo – A small but well-maintained zoo with exotic and local animals.
Aquatic Landes – A nearby water park (in Labenne) with slides and pools.
Mini-golf, horse riding, skate parks
Markets & Local Culture
Weekly markets – Selling local produce, cheese, and artisan crafts.
Summer night markets and festivals – Featuring music, dancing, and food stands.
History of Labenne
Labenne has Basque and Gascon roots, and its name likely stems from the local dialect. It was historically a small rural village focused on agriculture and forestry.
In the 19th century, with the rise of the pine reforestation of the Landes, the area saw economic changes, including the development of the timber industry.
With the arrival of the railway in the early 20th century, Labenne became more accessible, gradually transforming into a coastal resort town.
Today, it's known for eco-tourism, family-friendly holidays, and its proximity to larger towns like Bayonne and Biarritz.
General Description
Labenne is a tranquil seaside town with a mix of ocean, forest, and countryside.
It has a long sandy beach, popular with surfers and sun-seekers.
The town is family-oriented, eco-conscious, and not overly commercialized—ideal for those looking to relax in nature.
It also includes Labenne-Océan, a more beach-focused part of town with campsites, holiday homes, and beach bars.
Food in Labenne & Landes Region
Labenne shares the rich gastronomic traditions of the Landes region. Typical dishes include:
Magret de Canard – Grilled duck breast, often served with potatoes or salad.
Confit de Canard – Duck leg preserved in its fat, a classic southwestern specialty.
Axoa – A spicy veal stew from the nearby Basque region.
Piperade – A Basque-style dish with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and eggs.
Foie Gras – Often served as a starter or holiday delicacy.
Ttoro – A Basque fish stew with garlic, tomatoes, and white wine (less common but found in nearby coastal towns).
Pastis Landais – A sweet brioche-like cake flavored with rum and orange blossom water.
Local drinks: Tursan wine, Floc de Gascogne (a sweet apéritif), and local cider or craft beer.
Activities in Labenne
Labenne offers a wide range of outdoor and family-friendly activities:
Beach & Water Sports
Surfing – Great waves and local surf schools.
Swimming & sunbathing – At Labenne-Océan beach.
Bodyboarding & paddleboarding
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Cycling – Access to the Vélodyssée bike route along the Atlantic coast.
Hiking & forest walks – Through pine forests and nature trails.
Birdwatching – Especially at the Marais d'Orx, a protected wetland reserve.
Family Activities
Labenne Zoo – A small but well-maintained zoo with exotic and local animals.
Aquatic Landes – A nearby water park (in Labenne) with slides and pools.
Mini-golf, horse riding, skate parks
Markets & Local Culture
Weekly markets – Selling local produce, cheese, and artisan crafts.
Summer night markets and festivals – Featuring music, dancing, and food stands.
Click to show the map