Mont de Marsan / Armagnac

Mont-de-Marsan has been the Prefecture of Landes since 1790. It is therefore an administrative city, where two rivers, the Midou and the Douze, meet to form the Midouze. There you can see the remains of the Walls and the castle which bear witness to the creation of the city by Pierre de Laubaner.

Around the 14th century, the city began a prosperous era and became a port where Armagnac and wheat were shipped to Bayonne. This prosperity, found again in the 18th century after the wars of religion, and with the trade of barges, gave way in the 20th century to the administrative city that we know today, with a strong military and civil administration.

Mont-de-Marsan is also a pleasant city for holidays, with a rich historical and cultural heritage, a beautiful market and an interesting geographical location. This allows you to explore the inland Landes and if necessary reach the coast in 1 hour for a day trip to the sea.

Mont-de-Marsan

Many walking and cycling circuits are offered by the dynamic tourist office of Marsan. They allow you to discover the Mont-de-Marsan of yesterday and today: ramparts, Romanesque houses, church of the Madeleine, arenas, Jean Rameau park...

We are sure that the city of 3 rivers and 4 flowers will surprise you!

What to do in Mont-de-Marsan?

• In the historic heart of the city, visit the Despiau Wlérick Museum. It is a fine arts museum that highlights figurative sculpture with high-quality permanent and temporary exhibitions. A pretty park is adjacent to the museum. Also discover the Raymond Farbos Contemporary Art Center.

There are several parks to stroll through on a beautiful sunny day in Mont-de-Marsan. And yes, you have a date with a colorful and flowery city.

• The whole family will enjoy a walk in the Nahuques park. Free, it offers a playground, a shaded setting and farm animals to discover and pet.
• Jean Rameau Park is dotted with tall trees, with a playground and wide, quiet paths.
• Also take a stroll along the bucolic banks of the Midouze where you can admire beautiful views, particularly the confluence of the rivers.
• Do you like art and the forest? Visit the Contemporary Art Forest, a permanent exhibition in the Landes de Gascogne Natural Park. It is also a good excuse to take a pleasant walk. You can easily spend a day there by taking a picnic.
• Finally, don't miss the Saint-Roch food market, partly covered, on Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

Mont-de-Marsan ©Teddy-Bear via Mont-de-Marsan Tourist Office

Mont de Marsan, the confluence ©Teddy_Bear_Photos via Mont-de-Marsan Tourist Office

The Covered Market and the Jean Rameau Park @agence-les-conteurs via Mont-de-Marsan Tourist Office

Roquefort

Roquefort is a Landes fortified town. It is the entry point to the Landes d'Armagnac, a region where the brandy of the same name is queen and deserves that you learn all the nuances and taste all the flavors...

To the north-east of Mont-de-Marsan, Roquefort is a pilgrim town on the Vezelay Way. Crossed by the Estampon, on the banks of this river on which you can go canoeing in season, you can see the remains of the ramparts of this 10th century fortified town.

In Roquefort, you have to try the Bourrit. This Landes brioche is a kind of pastis that you can find at the local bakery.

The village of Roquefort

Saint-Justin, not far away, there is also an old fortified town, built on high ground in the 13th century. Explore it via the heritage trail with information panels all around the town. You will see a curious octagonal tower there, near the central arcaded square. Guided tours are organized in season by the Tourist Office.

Visit the Château de Fondat in Saint-Julien. It dates from the 17th century and its neo-Renaissance style is not lacking in charm. In its gardens, freely contemplate a collection of rare trees.

Labastide d'Armagnac

Labastide d'Armagnac, a magnificent medieval fortified town dating from the end of the 13th century, founded in 1291, and its superb royal square, await you next!

Stroll under the arcades, past the Armagnac producers' shops. You will also see beautiful half-timbered houses, a church and a fortified bell tower.

Furthermore, Labastide d'Armagnac is a place of cultural expression.

• Many artists have their workshops and galleries. The town offers many concerts and shows in the summer. We particularly recommend the " l'Oreille en place" Festival.
• Another celebration: Come celebrate Armagnac with " Armagnac en fête" which takes place in October. Aperitifs, meals, games, demonstrations, it's an unmissable and unmissable celebration ! Armagnac will no longer have any secrets for you!
• Visit the Armagnac Ecomuseum at Château Garreau which will allow you to understand the origins, manufacturing and aging of the famous eau de vie. Don't miss Notre Dame des Cyclistes, a small original museum in a chapel dedicated to the Tour de France and all cyclists, housing a collection of vintage jerseys and bicycles.

Labastide d'Armagnac, full of character

The treasure of the region!

Notre-Dame-des-Cyclistes, an unmissable pilgrimage for cycling lovers