Top 12 Lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa
Lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa, located in the Landes region of France, offer diverse natural landscapes and activities. The area features several freshwater lakes, including Lac de Léon, Lac de Soustons, and local ponds, providing varied environments for visitors. These lakes are often part of protected nature reserves, showcasing rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The region's geography combines forests, marshlands, and waterways, creating a distinct natural setting.
Best lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa
- The most popular lakes is Léon Lake Trail, a trail that is ideal for a leisurely hike surrounded by nature. This area is partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, known for its rare ecosystem and diverse fauna and flora.
- Another must-see spot is Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, a natural monument with hiking trails through a forest with changing ground and appearance. It connects the Etang de Léon and the Atlantic Ocean, serving as a protected habitat rich in fauna and flora.
- Visitors also love West Lake of Soustons, a lake offering a quiet stretch along its east bank. The path provides beautiful views of the lake and connects to Azur via bike paths and quiet side streets.
- Moliets-Et-Maa is known for large freshwater lakes, marine lakes, and protected natural ponds. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct features and activities.
- The lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 325 upvotes and 65 photos across 3 highlights.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
West Lake of Soustons
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lake Léon
Highlight • Lake
The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle.
In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake.
To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Léon
Highlight • Lake
The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle.
In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake.
To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lac Marin
Highlight • Lake
Vieux Boucau, meaning "old mouth" (in Gascon "Lo Bocau Vielh"), was once the Port d'Albret. It could still be the leading port on the Landes coast if the Adour River hadn't been diverted in 1578 for the benefit of Bayonne. Thus, in the spring of 1975, a Dutch dredger arrived by sea to dig the canal and the marine lake. By May 1976, the essential system for feeding and draining the lake was in place. Since then, a whole tourist complex has been built around the marine lake.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful cycle path in varied nature.
1
0
One of the most remarkable gems of the Landes region is the Port d'Albret marine lake, located between Vieux-Boucau and Soustons Plage, which connects the town center of Vieux-Boucau to the ocean. The colors and scents change at every hour of the day, and several leisure activities are available. Vieux Boucau, meaning "old mouth" (in Gascon "Lo Bocau Vielh"), was once the Port d'Albret. It could still be the leading port on the Landes coast if the Adour River hadn't been diverted in 1578 for the benefit of Bayonne. Thus, in the spring of 1975, a Dutch dredger arrived by sea to dig the canal and the marine lake. By May 1976, the essential system for feeding and draining the lake was in place. Since then, a whole tourist complex has been built around the marine lake.
3
0
This is the starting point for exploring the unique landscape along the Courant d'Huchet River. Either on foot along the trails or by boat (recommended). Absolutely unique; you feel like you're in the Amazon region and, ultimately, on the Nile.
0
0
Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
0
0
Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
0
0
Partially classified as a nature reserve and Natura 2000 site, Lake Léon is very popular with nature lovers. Discover a rare ecosystem made up of multiple habitats: aquatic area, wet moors, peat bogs, reed beds, wet meadows. The lake is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora: mammals such as the otter, the coypu or the European mink, many insects and birds such as the grey heron, reptiles such as the European pond turtle, commonly called the marsh turtle. In spring and autumn, birdwatching and photography enthusiasts come to admire populations of migratory birds stopping on the lake. To the west of the lake, the Courant d'Huchet meanders over more than 600 hectares to the Atlantic Ocean. This site, nicknamed "the Landes Amazon", is classified as a nature reserve and offers visitors trails through lush vegetation. Visit the Maison de la Réserve on the banks of the lake for an educational discovery of local biodiversity. Embark on a “galup” (traditional flat-bottomed boat) and let yourself be guided by the boatmen through 10km of wild landscapes, between marshes, dunes and peat bogs. An unforgettable excursion to experience with family, friends or lovers!
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes to visit around Moliets-Et-Maa?
The primary lakes in the Moliets-Et-Maa area include Lac de Léon, Lac de Soustons (which encompasses Lac d'Azur and the Port d'Albret Marine Lake), and the local Etangs de Moliets and La Prade. Each offers distinct features and activities.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Lac de Léon is known for its warm, calm, and supervised waters, perfect for children. The Port d'Albret Marine Lake, part of the Lac de Soustons system, also offers supervised swimming and various family activities. Both are highlighted as family-friendly destinations.
Can I go swimming in the lakes around Moliets-Et-Maa?
Swimming is popular and permitted in designated areas. Lac de Léon offers warm, calm waters with supervised beaches during summer. The Port d'Albret Marine Lake, near Lac de Soustons, also provides excellent supervised swimming opportunities. Swimming is generally prohibited in the main Lac de Soustons itself, but the 'Azur' area does offer beach activities.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The lakes offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, pedal boating, windsurfing, and canoeing on Lac de Léon and Lac de Soustons. Fishing is popular in all the lakes. For land-based activities, there are extensive cycling and walking paths, including the Vélodyssée cycle route near Lac de Léon and a greenway around Lac de Soustons. You can find many routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and running in the area, such as those listed in the Road Cycling Routes around Moliets-Et-Maa and Running Trails around Moliets-Et-Maa guides.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Léon Lake Trail is ideal for leisurely hikes. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, which connects Lac de Léon to the ocean, features hiking trails through a unique forest environment. The Etangs de Moliets and La Prade also have marked trails for walking. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Moliets-Et-Maa guide, which includes routes like the 'Courant d'Huchet Trail loop'.
What unique natural features can I explore around the lakes?
The region is rich in biodiversity. The Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve is a natural monument often called the "Amazon of the Landes" due to its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, including otters and various birds. Lac de Léon and Lac de Soustons are part of the Natura 2000 network, protecting rare ecosystems. The Etangs de Moliets and La Prade are also protected nature reserves, offering a calm, green haven with rich flora and fauna.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The summer months (July and August) are ideal for swimming and enjoying supervised beaches and water sports due to the warmer waters. However, spring and autumn are excellent for nature lovers, birdwatching, and hiking, as the weather is milder and migratory birds can be observed, particularly at Lac de Léon.
Are there opportunities for fishing in the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the lakes. Lac de Léon is known for white fish (carp, bream, roach) and predators (pike, perch, zander). Lac de Soustons also offers pike perch, pike, carp, and bream. The Etangs de Moliets and La Prade allow fishing with a compulsory permit, with species like pike, perch, and black bass present.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a fantastic way to explore the area. The Vélodyssée cycle route passes through Lac de Léon, and Lac de Soustons is encircled by a greenway of about 20-26.5 km, connecting to nearby towns like Azur and Vieux-Boucau. You can find numerous cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Moliets-Et-Maa and Gravel biking around Moliets-Et-Maa guides.
Are there places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, you can find dining options near the lakes. Lac de Léon's beaches, especially on the south side, feature bars and restaurants. Near Lac de Soustons, there are three nice restaurants by the lake, offering beautiful views.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and the variety of activities. Many enjoy the calm, warm waters of Lac de Léon for family swimming and water sports. The tranquil environment of Lac de Soustons for non-motorized activities and its extensive cycling trails are also highly rated. The unique natural beauty of the Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve is also a significant draw.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, when visiting the Courant d'Huchet Nature Reserve, you can start your route from a designated parking lot. Specific parking areas are usually provided at the main access points for Lac de Léon and Lac de Soustons to accommodate visitors.
Most popular routes around Moliets-Et-Maa
Most popular attractions around Moliets-Et-Maa
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Moliets-Et-Maa? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
