In the footsteps of the resin collectors of La Teste-de-Buch

Start from the gravel car park at the entrance to the La Teste-de-Buch communal forest (a site balancing property rights and public access rights), accessible by car, where parking is available.

(S/E) With your back to the car park, turn right onto the wide forest track heading south-west, beneath the maritime pines. Follow this main track, ignoring the side paths. You will reach a crossroads.

(1) Cross this track and continue along the path opposite, which climbs gently through a pine forest with undergrowth of ferns, oaks and arbutus trees, on ground that is sometimes sandy and loose. You will reach the highest point of the route, where a gap in the vegetation offers a view of the Dune du Pilat to the west.

(2) Head down the opposite slope via a sandy descent, then follow the winding paths through the forest heading north-east. At the 29-metre mark, pass through a small clearing and continue, keeping a close eye on the route as several paths cross in this area.

(3) Turn left and begin the descent. Continue along the track lined with heather and sand plants. Return to the junction from the outward journey.

(1) Continue straight ahead towards the north-east. A large oak tree marks the approach to the finish. Arrive at the car park at the entrance to the forest (S/E).

Sandy car park at the entrance to the forest track, accessible by car. No shops or water points along the route: bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Dry, sandy terrain; walking shoes recommended. Several paths cross in the forest: follow the trail carefully. Forest at risk of fire in summer: no fires or cigarettes; access may be restricted during the summer months – check before setting off.
Please note: dogs must be kept on a lead from 15 April to 30 June

Beautiful view of the Dune du Pilat from the highest point of the route. La Teste-de-Buch communal forest, the last of its kind in France, with a long-established history of resin harvesting. Undergrowth typical of the Landes dune forest: maritime pines, oaks, arbutus, ferns and heather. Red squirrels, roe deer and numerous forest birds may be spotted.