Hourtin walks

Hiking in the Contaut lagoon via trails through the dunes, marshes and forests. Beautiful views of the Étang de Contaut and Lac de Hourtin. Discover the flora and fauna, paths and trails with some elevation changes and some sandy sections.

In all seasons, Lac de Carcans Hourtin (the largest natural lake in France, 18 km long and 5 km wide) inspires tranquillity. We take the old La Gracieuse cycle path, which is unfortunately now in poor condition. It runs alongside theGR®8, the Way of St James, and leads from the Bombannes base to the tip of La Gracieuse on the western shore of the lake.

The Atlantic Wall (Atlantikwall in German) is an extensive system of coastal fortifications built by the Third Reich during the Second World War along the western coast of Europe to prevent an invasion of the continent by the Allies from Great Britain. This walking trail follows the concrete road that served the blockhouses, which were used as forward posts.

With the only Gallo-Roman theatre south of the Garonne, the archaeological site of Brion is unique and unmissable. This hike will allow you to tour the commune of Saint-Germain-d'Esteuil and discover the ruins and Roman theatre of the Brion site.

Most of the route consists of forest paths with a few sections on the road and cycle path. The hard surfaces are welcome as walking in the sand is tiring. You can enjoy views of the Étang du Cousseau and the Marais de Talaris with its flora and fauna. Le Moutchic and its calm waters, sailing boats, picnic spots and swimming areas. Finally, the ocean, with its rough waters that are perfect for surfers.

Starting from the church in Saint-Izan-de-Médoc, this circular route takes you around the former viscountcy of Castillon, which in the Middle Ages had the privilege and exclusive right to trade wine from the Médoc to England. It will allow you to appreciate the unique natural features of this part of the Médoc.

This easy circular route through the vineyards with little tarmac road takes you past Château Lestage, a ruined windmill and Château Fonréaud.

An easy walk through the vineyards; you will pass near the Jalle de Tiquetorte, where the Moulin de Tiquetorte is located.

A pleasant hike to discover two Médoc châteaux (Beychevelle and Ducru Beaucaillou) and the estuary with its carrelets. This route, with its varied landscape and modest length, is ideal for a lovely family walk.

This walk takes you from the charming port of Goulée to the picturesque site of Richard Lighthouse via the port of Richard. It alternates between paths, quiet roads and natural areas. Along this easy route, you will discover all aspects of the estuary: ports, marshes, vineyards and historical heritage.

Lamarque is located in the Médoc region, in the heart of the great wine appellations, south of the prestigious Saint-Julien Beychevelle and Pauillac appellations, and less than 10km north of Margaux. The village is unique in that it has the highest point on the Médoc peninsula. The dome of the church, perched at a height of 35 metres, offers a unique and breathtaking view of the great wine region.

This circular route starts at the lighthouse and runs along the estuary and its many fishing huts. It passes through small hamlets with stone houses. Return via the port, the estey, and the estuary dyke again.

An easy hike through the woods on forest tracks.

Walk to La Jenny via the beach, then return via the fire track and the cycle path through the pine trees.

There is a beautiful view of the Gironde estuary and, to the west, on a clear day, you can see the Beaumont tower, which is still used today as a navigation marker.

An easy circular path through the shaded forest, following two tributaries of the Jalle de Martignas.

The vine-covered hillsides of the Gironde are dotted with small hills planted with various crops and vines. The landscapes open up along the paths leading to the estuary. The marshes can be seen from the Beaumont hill. There you will discover a cone-shaped tower dating from the 19th century, but whose first constructions probably date back to the Middle Ages. Even today, the Beaumont Tower still serves as a navigation landmark.