Those choosing Aureilhan for a getaway can plan their stay around a range of local offerings: a walk with a specific time frame, natural and architectural landmarks, a treasure-hunt trail, or activities on the water. It is worth keeping these options distinct when planning. Some have a minimum duration or fixed seasonal hours; others mainly lead to special places and points of interest.
Walking routes with different highlights
The “Tour du Lac” circular route starts at the pontoon, is 13.5 kilometres long and takes at least three hours and 30 minutes. Allow at least this much time for the walk, and do not plan other activities on the assumption that this already accounts for the whole day. The municipal route description, updated on 5 April 2024, specifies the official blue horizontal PDIPR markings and the clockwise direction. From Aureilhan, the route passes through Mimizan, Sainte-Eulalie and Saint-Paul before returning to Aureilhan. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.
The “Circuit de l'étang” circular route goes around Lake Aureilhan-Mimizan and takes in wetlands, the Promenade Fleurie and the Château de Woolsack as natural and architectural landmarks. This gives it a different focus from the Tour du Lac: several named landscape and cultural sites shape this route. If you want to plan based on the information provided for each walk, the Tour du Lac has a specific minimum time frame, while the Circuit de l'étang connects the natural and architectural landmarks mentioned along a single route.
Wetlands, a treasure hunt and summer swimming
A Tèrra Aventura trail in Aureilhan explores the wetlands. QR codes hidden in nature lead to treasure caches. Aureilhan also has the “L'Arche de Zahan” trail. These activities have a different focus from the walking routes: here, the emphasis is on exploring the wetlands and playfully searching for the caches.
Every summer in July and August, lifeguards are on duty at Plage du Ponton from 1 pm to 7 pm. If you are planning a stay during these months, check the hours before your trip.
The Lous Chivaus equestrian centre also offers its own way to spend time outdoors: it provides riding lessons and one- to one-and-a-half-hour forest rides for adults and children. Activities and availability may change, so check the specific offering before your visit. The stated duration of the rides is a useful guide for planning your day, but you should confirm availability in advance.
Historic sites and buildings
Near the church, the Sainte-Ruffine spring is located on the site of a former chapel, which was destroyed by a storm in 1955. The connection between the spring, the church and the former chapel site makes this a distinct stop for anyone who wants to include local history in their getaway.
Aureilhan Church dates from the 12th to 13th centuries; the church and its porch have been fully renovated. The pier also has a historical connection: the Duke of Westminster had it built in 1910 to provide access to the Château de Woolsack on the other side of the lake, on the Mimizan shore. The pier is therefore linked to the history of the château, while the Circuit de l'étang includes it as one of its landmarks.
When looking for a hotel in Aureilhan, you can first consider which of these interests you want to shape your stay: a walk with a set minimum time, natural and cultural sites, seasonal lifeguard service or a horse ride. Allow for the Tour du Lac’s minimum duration and take the stated swimming hours into account. This way, you can plan your getaway around the town’s specific offerings without trying to fit every activity into a single day.
Discover more destinations: Saint Martin De Seignanx, Amou, Doazit, Pouillon, Maylis, Habas, Angoumé, Nassiet.
See the regional travel overview: Landes.
