Moliets-et-Maâ and Lake Léon

The beach next to the village of Moliets-et-Maa has all the charm of a typical Landes beach, with long stretches of fine sand and choppy waves perfect for board sports. Supervised in summer, it's very popular with families. Very lively in summer, it may not be for those who prefer to be on their own. If you want to learn how to ride the waves like a pro, head to Soon line surf school, which offers beginners' courses from €39.

But the main attraction of the central beach lies to the north. This is the mouth of the Courant d'Huchet, a unique natural wonder. Winding its way between golden sandbanks, it is here that this small river empties into the ocean. Surrounded by wild dunes and lush vegetation, the river's appearance changes with the seasons and the weather, adding to its almost magical aura. Its warm, shallow waters are a delight for children, who can splash around in complete safety. There's a lovely walk along the dunes to take in the full panorama, which is particularly breathtaking when the setting sun is reflected in the river's curves. Please note that this is a protected area and that dogs are not permitted.

This is the southernmost of Moliets' beaches. Situated 1km from the central beach and bordered by a huge golf course, it offers a much more intimate atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the town centre. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so please take extra care when swimming.

Activities in the heart of nature

The resort of Moliets-et-Maâ is bordered by dunes and superb pine forests where you can take refuge in the shade when the heat becomes too oppressive. These forests are well-equipped with cycle paths, making for invigorating rides in the peace and quiet of the woods. At Joe Bike, you can hire bikes for all the family. From mountain bikes to ocean bikes for riding on the sand, there's something for everyone. Joe Bike is open 7 days a week and you can also book online.

And if you're feeling adventurous, head toAdrenaline parc, Aquitaine's largest accrobranche (tree climbing) park. With 25 courses at different levels, soar through the air between the majestic pines of the Landes forest. Allow 3 hours on site to make the most of your time. Prices are €14 for 5-10 year-olds, €18 for 10-14 year-olds and €22 for over-14s. The park is open in April, May, June, September and October from 2pm to 7pm and in July and August from 9.30am to 7.30pm.

Where to eat?

Has the ocean air whetted your appetite? The resort has some great places to eat, including La Cagette, which serves excellent creative cuisine based on local produce in a friendly guinguette atmosphere. Open for lunch and dinner.

Looking for something different? La Kbane is for you. This pretty restaurant, decorated in a tropical style, offers a menu with influences from all over the world. The dishes are fresh, colourful and tasty, a real invitation to travel. Open in July and August from 10am to 2.30pm and from 7pm to 10.30pm.

The Huchet stream, for which Moliets-et-Maâ is famous, rises in the Etang de Léon, a vast lake surrounded by lush greenery, a veritable paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. Partly classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, the Etang de Léon is home to a rare ecosystem (aquatic area, wet moorland, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows, etc.) as well asa wide variety of flora and fauna. In spring and autumn, migratory birds can be seen stopping off here before heading off to other parts of the world. Numerous footpaths (signposted in the village of Léon) allow you to explore these delightful landscapes on foot or by bike. At La Cyclerie, you can hire bikes to explore the surrounding area on your own.

The pretty sandy beach speckled with soft grass, supervised in July and August, is ideal for an afternoon's swimming and relaxing in complete tranquillity. If you feel the need to get out on the water, you can hire a pedalo or canoe at Gisou Loisirs Nautiques, open from April to June: 11am - 6pm (weather permitting), in July and August: 10am - 7.30pm and in September: 11am - 6pm (weather permitting).

Another not-to-be-missed activity in Léon is a trip down the famous Huchet stream in a galupe, a small flat-bottomed boat originally used by fishermen. Accompanied by a guide, you can glide along the current, which is nicknamed the "Amazon of the Landes" because of its lush vegetation. Classified as a nature reserve, the Huchet stream winds for 7 kilometres between peat bogs, marshes and dunes, and is home to an extraordinary variety of species of birds, fish and even otters! Lulled by the current and the song of the wind in the trees, it's rare to experience such peace and intimacy with nature. To discover this ecological paradise, visit the Bateliers du Courant d'Huchet, near Léon beach, an association of enthusiasts dedicated to helping visitors discover the riches of the Courant d'Huchet.

There are several options for round-trip guided walks:

2 hours (Ile aux Chênes = Adults 17€, under 6s 9€),

3 hours (Pont de Pichelèbe = Adults 23€, under 6s 12€),

or 4h ( Plage d'Huchet = Adult 30€, under 6s 15€ ).

In April, May, June, September and October: 2-hour walks only, departing at 10.30am and 2.30pm.

In July and August: 2-hour walk, departing at 10.30am and 3 or 4-hour walk, departing at 2.30pm.