Best lakes around Messanges, a village in the Landes region of France, offer diverse natural beauty and recreational activities. The area features lakes within the commune, such as Lacs de la Prade and Moïsan, and several nearby lakes including Lac Marin, Lac de Léon, and Lac de Soustons. These bodies of water are set amidst pine forests and wetlands, providing varied landscapes for exploration. The region is characterized by its coastal proximity and significant natural reserves.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
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Beautiful cycle path in varied nature.
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One of the most remarkable gems of the Landes region is the Port d'Albret marine lake, located between Vieux-Boucau and Soustons Plage, which connects the town center of Vieux-Boucau to the ocean. The colors and scents change at every hour of the day, and several leisure activities are available. Vieux Boucau, meaning "old mouth" (in Gascon "Lo Bocau Vielh"), was once the Port d'Albret. It could still be the leading port on the Landes coast if the Adour River hadn't been diverted in 1578 for the benefit of Bayonne. Thus, in the spring of 1975, a Dutch dredger arrived by sea to dig the canal and the marine lake. By May 1976, the essential system for feeding and draining the lake was in place. Since then, a whole tourist complex has been built around the marine lake.
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This is the starting point for exploring the unique landscape along the Courant d'Huchet River. Either on foot along the trails or by boat (recommended). Absolutely unique; you feel like you're in the Amazon region and, ultimately, on the Nile.
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Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
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Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
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Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
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The lakes around Messanges are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll find dense pine forests, wetlands, and protected areas like the Natura 2000 sites around Lac de la Prade and Lac de Moïsan. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, near Lac de Léon, is particularly notable for its changing forest landscapes, rich fauna, and flora, often referred to as the 'Amazon of the Landes'.
Yes, the region offers extensive opportunities for both hiking and cycling. You can find hiking trails around Lac de la Prade and a 3.5 km discovery trail at Lac de Moïsan. The dense pine forests surrounding these lakes feature cycle paths, including sections of the Vélodyssée. For more structured routes, explore the MTB Trails around Messanges, Running Trails around Messanges, or Gravel biking around Messanges guides.
For swimming, the Lac Marin in Vieux Boucau les Bains is the closest option with a beach. Lac de Léon is highly recommended for its excellent water quality for swimming and a wide array of water sports like pedal boating and stand-up paddleboarding. Lac de Soustons is ideal for various water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and rowing, though swimming is generally prohibited in parts of the lake.
Absolutely. The discovery trail 'A la découverte de l'Adour perdu' around Lac de Moïsan is popular with families. Lac de Léon offers shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, and water sports suitable for all ages. The View of the Étang de Soustons provides a quiet place for picnics. Additionally, boat trips on traditional flat-bottomed boats are available in the Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, offering a unique family experience.
Yes, fishing is possible in several lakes. Lac de la Prade offers fishing opportunities, typically requiring a permit from the town hall. Lac de Léon is also suitable for fishing, as is Lac de Soustons, which is popular for fishing carnivorous fish.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly good for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts, as migratory birds stop at Lac de Léon during these seasons. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, while the extensive cycle paths and hiking trails can be enjoyed in milder weather.
Yes, the region is rich in protected natural areas. Lac de la Prade and Lac de Moïsan are part of the 'wetlands of Moliets, La Prade and Moisans,' a Natura 2000 site. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, near Lac de Léon, is a classified nature reserve known for its unique ecosystem and biodiversity. Lac de Soustons is also a Natura 2000 classified site.
The protected areas around the lakes are home to diverse wildlife. At Lac de Léon, you might spot mammals like otters, coypus, or European minks, various insects, and birds such as the grey heron. Reptiles like the European pond turtle are also present. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve is particularly rich in fauna and flora.
Yes, there are excellent cycling paths. Extensive cycle paths, including sections of the Vélodyssée, run through the pine forests surrounding Lac de la Prade and Lac de Moïsan. A greenway for cyclists and pedestrians also circles Lac de Soustons, connecting Soustons, Azur, Messanges, and Vieux-Boucau, offering a scenic way to explore the area.
The region has an interesting history tied to its waterways. For example, Lac de Moïsan is described as the last remnant of the bay formed by the ancient mouth of the Adour river. The Lac Marin in Vieux Boucau les Bains was created in the 1970s after the Adour River was diverted centuries ago, transforming the landscape and creating new recreational opportunities.
The Léon Lake Trail is a popular trail around the lake, ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The 'A la découverte de l'Adour perdu' discovery trail at Lac de Moïsan is a great option for families. Additionally, the Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve offers several hiking trails through its unique forest environment.


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