Europe's Stunning Beach Town, Crowned as 'Surfing Capital', Nestles in Southern France
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Nestled on the southwestern coast of France, Soorts-Hossegor is a coastal paradise that offers an invigorating mix of adrenaline and relaxation. Located in the department of Landes, this charming town lies at the start of the famous Côte d'Argent (Silver Coast) and is 12 miles north of Biarritz.
Soorts-Hossegor, affectionately known as the "surfing capital of Europe," is a must-visit destination for surfing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The town is easily accessible by train, with regional buses connecting it with the nearest stations in Bayonne and Dax.
Surfing the Famous Beaches
The area's most popular attractions are its world-class beaches, especially Plage de la Gravière and Plage Centrale. Known for their excellent waves and surf culture, these beaches attract surfers from around the globe. Major surfing events such as the Quiksilver Pro France have been held in Hossegor for decades.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, which features golden sand beaches framed by pine forests, dunes, and the tranquil Lac d'Hossegor. The lake area is perfect for relaxing, walking, nature watching, and water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Local Markets, Casinos, and Golf
Exploring local markets is another way to immerse yourself in the culture of Soorts-Hossegor. The Saturday market in Soorts and the seasonal markets in Hossegor offer a mix of regional food, crafts, and culture. For entertainment and a chance to experience local nightlife, visit the Sporting Casino. Golf enthusiasts can play a round at the Golf of Hossegor, which offers a picturesque course near the forest and coast.
Cultural and Sporting Events
Throughout the year, Soorts-Hossegor hosts a variety of cultural and sporting events, including the Quiksilver Surf Festival in October, beach festivals, rowing races, and music fairs.
Accommodation and Wellness Retreats
For accommodation closely tied to surfing, hostels like Jo&Joe offer surf lessons with discounts, as well as a social atmosphere for surfers and travelers. For those seeking a more holistic experience, combined surf, yoga, and skate retreats are available, capitalizing on Hossegor’s active lifestyle and wellness scene.
Dining and Local Architecture
Soorts-Hossegor's dining scene includes a variety of world cuisine, seafood options, and regional staples like foie gras or magret de canard. The town features cozy cafes serving buttery croissants and espresso, and it buzzes with camaraderie at spots like Rockfood or Dick's Sand Bar, serving Sagardo Basque cider.
The local architecture of Hossegor includes traditional timber-framed houses and modern villas. The town has more than a hundred fashion boutiques, including local creators and artisan bakeries.
In summary, a visit to Soorts-Hossegor offers a unique blend of world-class surfing, outdoor nature activities, cultural events, and a vibrant local scene centered around the beach and lake. Whether you're a surfing enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Soorts-Hossegor is a destination worth exploring.
Travel guides often recommend Soorts-Hossegor as a lifestyle destination, blending adrenaline-pumping surfing with tranquil wellness retreats. The town's sports scene extends beyond surfing, with opportunities for golf, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.
