3 minutes
November 14, 2023

Courant d’Huchet: an exceptional natural site in the heart of the Landes region

Courant Huchet Site Naturel Exception Landes

The Courant d’Huchet is an exceptional natural site in the Landes region of France. The river rises in the Etang de Léon and flows into the Atlantic Ocean at the end of its course. It passes through the villages of Léon, Vielle-Saint-Girons and Moliets-et-Maa. Its nature reserve is classified, protected and managed by the Conservatoire du littoral. During your vacation in the Landes region, take the time to discover this unique place, with its unspoilt landscape between lake and forest, on a hike or a boat trip. Whether on foot or by boat, you’re sure to enjoy discovering this Landes nature reserve.

The Courant d’Huchet on foot

If you like hiking, you can take the marked trails along the Courant d’Huchet to discover it during your stay in the Landes. You can admire the diversity of flora and fauna along the shores as you stroll along the current from Lake Léon to the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking trails take you to Huchet beach, where the Courant d’Huchet flows into the ocean. Enjoy this breathtaking view of the Atlantic coast and, if you feel like it, enjoy a well-deserved swim.

Huchet beach is a wild, unspoilt beach, in stark contrast to the more touristy beaches nearby. It’s an ideal place to recharge your batteries and connect with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of iconic Landes towns like Capbreton or Hossegor. During your hike, you’ll pass through authentic villages such as Vielle-Saint-Girons, Moliets-et-Maa and Léon.

Courant Huchet à Pied

 

The Courant d’Huchet by boat

If you prefer a more leisurely stroll and hiking isn’t your thing, you can opt for a boat trip on the Courant d’Huchet. You’ll be accompanied by a boatman, who will help you discover the secrets and anecdotes of this magical natural site in the Landes region. The boatmen are passionate, experienced guides who know the Courant d’Huchet like the back of their hand. They’ll take you on a meandering tour of the river, telling you all about its history, geography, flora and fauna.

Take advantage of this serene stroll and discover the Landes in a whole new way. Thanks to your guide, you’ll be able to unravel the mysteries of this pretty corner of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, in south-west France. Lac de Léon, the village of Vielle-Saint-Girons and the Huchet nature reserve will hold no more secrets for you!

Courant d’Huchet nature reserve

The Courant d’Huchet is more than just a waterway, it’s a nature reserve housing a rich and varied ecosystem. The Courant d’Huchet nature reserve was created in 1981 to protect this exceptional natural heritage in the heart of the Landes region. It covers 618 hectares, and includes wetlands (marshes), forests, meadows and dunes. It is managed by the Conservatoire du Littoral, which oversees its conservation and development.

A place of rich biodiversity in the Landes region

The Courant d’Huchet nature reserve is an ideal place to observe the biodiversity of the Landes. It is home to over 200 bird species, some of which are threatened or protected, such as the marsh harrier, the egret and the kingfisher. It is also home to over 40 species of mammal, including the endangered European mink, Europe’s smallest carnivore.
The reserve is also a haven for numerous species of reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects, which you can discover during your stay in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Whether you choose a hiking trail or a boat trip, prepare to be amazed!

A place for environmental education and awareness-raising

The Courant d’Huchet nature reserve not only offers a privileged stroll in the Landes region, it is also a place for environmental education and awareness-raising. It has two reception and information buildings for the public, where you can discover an exhibition on the reserve’s natural heritage, as well as educational activities and workshops. Take part in guided tours to learn more about the fauna, flora and history of the Courant d’Huchet.

 

The Courant d’Huchet is a remarkable natural site that deserves to be visited and respected. Whether on foot or by boat, discover the beauty and richness of this incredible place in the Landes region offering marshes, meadows, dunes and forests. Le Courant d’Huchet will leave you with unforgettable memories of your stay in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. It will also give you the opportunity to learn more about environmental protection and discover emblematic villages such as Vielle-Saint-Girons or Moliets-et-Maa. Enjoy comfortable accommodation at our Sen Yan campsite in the Landes. Whether you’re looking for a cosy mobile home or a spacious pitch, you’re sure to find the ideal rental to help you explore the department and its wonders!