Hossegor

The origins of Hossegor

Neighbours with nothing to envy each other, the Basque coast and the Landes are two regions of genuine charm that attract many holidaymakers every year, as well as new residents. And for good reason: both regions have plenty to offer, including the Landes town of Hossegor, a famous seaside resort just a few kilometres from the Landes forest.

The village became a seaside resort in the early 20th century, drawing summer visitors from Parisian literary and artistic circles who were in love with wide open coastal landscapes. Originally called Soorts, the town adopted the name of its saltwater lake, Hossegor, in 1913 and became Soorts-Hossegor. The distinctive feature of this Landes coastal town is that it has two centres: Hossegor, the seaside resort, and Soorts, the old market town once inhabited by fishermen, mule drivers, woodcutters and resin tappers. This simple, rural life was transformed one day by the emergence of the Hossegor district. Within a few years, growing fame and a rising influx of tourists prompted local officials to add the name Hossegor to that of Soorts in 1913. The seaside resort itself was born in 1931. At the time, it was the arts, literature and elegant sports that gave the town its national reputation. Later, an entirely different pursuit would bring the resort its hour of glory: surfing swept through the town in 1960 and has never stopped gaining followers since. Today, the name Hossegor evokes, in France and abroad, a landmark on the world map of surfing, and its golf course ranks among the 50 finest in Europe. The 1980s saw surfing become mainstream. It turned into a major tourist asset, and beyond its touristic side, it also became a business in its own right: the surf industry.

Not to be missed in Hossegor

Hossegor is THE surfing capital of Europe, with 7 kilometres of sandy coastline. All of its beaches have supervised swimming areas as well as zones reserved for sporting activities. Sunbathe on Plage Centrale, Plage du Nord or Plage du Sud, or on Plage Blanche along the saltwater lake, which is noticeably calmer. Imposing dunes must be crossed to reach the legendary Gravières beach and its unique surf spot, the setting for international competitions.

The Hossegor saltwater lake, where seawater flows in and out with every tide, is also perfect for other water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding. Sailing schools are delighted to welcome both enthusiasts and budding sailors. Beyond board sports, Hossegor is home to many factory outlet stores of major brands in the Pédebert business area. Bars and restaurants with a festive atmosphere, by day as well as by night, are plentiful. In the evening, visitors love to head towards the oyster farmers' huts for a stroll that is both picturesque and delicious. A tourist town full of life and activity, blending tradition and originality through its neo-Basque architecture, which attracts a sophisticated clientele. Between the lake beaches and the ocean beaches, there is no shortage of family walks and outings. The Landes forest, covering nearly a million hectares, is one of the largest in Europe and one of the region's major assets. The walk along the Hossegor canal and the one around the lake will also let you discover more of the resort, its architecture, its wildlife, its flora and its history. Hossegor will also win over sports lovers, and surfers above all! Needless to say, this seaside resort is renowned for its surf spots. Ideal for learning this essential sport along the whole coast, and even for competing alongside the greatest professional surfers! A true way of life in Hossegor, as in the Landes as a whole, surfing sets the rhythm of life in Hossegor. Don't be mistaken though, if the water isn't your favourite playground, Hossegor's golf course, dating from 1930 and known for its originality, may well win you over. Some top players even consider it one of the finest golf courses to this day.

Living in Hossegor

Highly sought-after for holidays, whether with friends, family, or for settling down for good, the town of Hossegor is a seaside resort that is a real pleasure to live in. Its beaches, walks, forests and activities offer genuine well-being and a relaxing pace of life. This seaside resort enjoys an exceptional setting between the Landes forest and the Atlantic Ocean, close to towns such as Seignosse and Capbreton. Indeed, Hossegor offers an appealing setting within a remarkable natural environment. As for its property market, Hossegor is highly sought-after and offers a wide range of properties, from sea-view apartments to magnificent villas on the edge of the lake. Hossegor is made up of different districts, each with its own atmosphere and specific features. The districts near the Hossegor lake, such as the marine lake and the lakeside beach area, are highly prized. Districts close to the beaches, the town centre and the golf course are also popular. Each district has its own advantages in terms of proximity to services and access to activities.