Attractions and Places To See around Hostens - Top 20

The primary natural attraction is the Domaine Départemental Gérard Lagors, also known as the Hostens lakes domain. This vast 600-700 hectare area, a former lignite extraction site, features five lakes and is recognized for its rich biodiversity as a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) and part of the Natura 2000 Zone. It's an excellent place for enjoying the extensive pine forests characteristic of the Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park.

Yes, the Lac de Lamothe within the Hostens lakes domain is a central hub for water activities. It offers supervised swimming from June to September and features white sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and pedal boating.

Hostens is well-connected by cycle paths. You can explore the La Brède–Hostens Cycle Path, which leads to a lake with swimming beaches. Another option is the scenic Mios–Bazas Cycle Path, known for its continuous tarmac through pine forests. There's also the Cycle path between Hostens and Belin-Béliet, a railway cycle path offering a route through the local landscape.

Yes, the Hostens lakes domain features three main loops for hiking and mountain biking, spanning 8, 11, and 16 kilometers. For more detailed routes, you can find various hiking trails around Hostens, including easy and moderate options like 'Hiking between the lakes in Hostens' or 'The tour of lac du Bousquey'. You can explore these and more on the Hiking around Hostens guide.

Hostens offers a few sites of cultural and historical interest. These include the Chapelle Sainte-Catherine de Rétis, a modest Gothic chapel located along one of the historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, and the intriguing Fontaine Sainte Ruffine. Other mentions include the Moulin Neuf and the Ruines du Château de Saint-Cricq.

Absolutely. Besides swimming and water sports at Lac de Lamothe, families can enjoy Hostens Aventure, an aerial adventure park with six progressive courses suitable for visitors aged 3 and above. The cycle paths, such as the La Brède–Hostens Cycle Path and Mios–Bazas Cycle Path, are also noted as family-friendly.

The summer months, particularly from June to September, are ideal for visitors looking to enjoy supervised swimming and water sports at Lac de Lamothe. The pleasant weather during this period is also excellent for cycling, hiking, and exploring the natural domain. However, be mindful of potential fire hazards during very hot summer months, as some trails may be closed.

Yes, the Hostens lakes domain offers dedicated loops for mountain biking, alongside hiking. You can find a variety of MTB trails, ranging from easy to moderate, such as 'Chemin coolos – Hostens lake beach loop from Hostens' or 'Lac d'Hostens – A l'arrache loop from Louchats'. More options are available in the MTB Trails around Hostens guide.

Yes, the Relais Nature d'Hostens serves as an environmental information and awareness center. It is equipped with educational tools to help visitors learn about the local flora, fauna, and landscapes of the Regional Natural Park of Landes de Gascogne.

Beyond cycling, hiking, and swimming, Hostens offers horseback riding through Les Ecuries du Lac, allowing you to explore the area around the lakes. The lakes are also popular for fishing, with pike, carp, and roach being common catches. Additionally, the area is recognized for trail running, with several routes available, including 'Hostens lake beach loop from Hostens' and 'Path Between Two Lakes – Hostens lake beach loop from Hostens' in the Running Trails around Hostens guide.

The Hostens Station is a former railway station. The railway line it was part of, from Lesparre to Saint Symphorien, has now been converted into the Véloroute 754, a cycle path connecting the Bay of Arcachon with the Garonne. The old station buildings along this route are preserved, offering a glimpse into the region's past.