Go surf!:
The Southwest coastline of France is known worldwide for the quality of its waves. A string of excellent surf spots extends from Lacanau in the north to our local sand breaks; Seignosse, Hossegor and Capbreton and then continues to Guéthary in the south. Enjoyed by beginners and experienced surfers alike, whether you are into bodyboarding, bodysurfing, paddleboarding, longboarding, or just want to go surfing. The steadiest swell anywhere in Europe means that there is potential for waves all year around, and each season brings a new atmosphere both in and out of the water. Surf hire, lessons and coaching are of the highest level and plentiful on the coast, as the area attracts top level surfers from around the world, who choose to make the to stay and make it their home.
The Chateaux and Villages of Bordeaux :
Bordeaux is located just a 2 hour drive from the apartment, and makes a memorable day trip for tasting at one of the châteaux, or enjoying the atmosphere of one of the World Heritage listed villages. Although, with over 10,000 wine-producing châteaux, it might be hard to choose which one! The most famous are these are from the Médoc, such as Château Margaux, and from Graves and Pomerol. However, the most charming and fascinating village is Saint-Émilion which features the worlds largest monolithic church, and some of Bordeaux's most sought after, and delicious wines.
Other local highlights :
Le Tour de France :: Each July ‘Le Tour’ includes the Pyrenees in some of its mountain stages, and often one of the villages nearby in one of the flat stages and stage finishes. In 2009 one of these finishes will be nearby in the village of ‘Tarbes’ during the last, and one of the most grueling mountain stages which includes the famous ‘Col du Tourmalet’.
:: Also :: The Pilgrim Roads to Santiago de Compostela :: The pilgrim roads to Santiago de Compostela are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, and some are located within a short drive of the apartment. The very pretty village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is 1 hour drive from the apartment, and makes not only a lovely day trip, but it is located on the famous pilgrims road.
Ski:
Les Pyrénées:
In this blessed part of the world in the winter, it is possible to surf in the morning, and snowboard in the afternoon! The slopes of the Pyrénées are just 1.5 hours drive from the apartment. Visit resorts located in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, discover the hugeness of the forests or contemplate the blue of far away horizons. One of the closest resorts is ‘Gourette’ with an altitude of 1400 m and offers a breathtaking panorama dominated by the Pène Medaa and the Pic de Ger standing respectively at 2520 and 2614 m. The mountains as they should be – grandiose!
Golf:
Two world-class golf courses are at your doorstep:
The ‘Golf de Seignosse’ is 15 minute walk from the apartment. Designed by the American Architect Robert Van Hagge, the 18 hole par 72 (6129m) Golf de Seignosse has a legendary reputation which will not deceive even the most demanding golfers. Voted best golf course in France by the Association of British Tour Operators to France and 15th European golf course by the magazine Golf World, the Golf de Seignosse is a true work of art recognized by the best players. The course winds through the forest, surrounded by majestic pine and oak trees, a pleasure to play for all golfers.
The ‘Golf d' Hossegor’ is 5 minutes by car from the apartment, and was first designed by Tom Morrison in 1930. It was intended as a playground for the ‘sports élégants' in the already popular seaside resort of Hossegor. Located behind the village, and sheltered from marine winds in a forest of pine and oak trees.
