Between forest and ocean lies Bénesse-Maremne, where its rural identity, farms and natural surroundings have been preserved. The town is also part of the listed landscape “Étangs landais sud”, which was listed on September 18, 1969. Your stay can focus on different things: local history, pelota and other sports, as well as wetlands and trails.
Local history and church architecture
Bénesse-Maremne has been documented in writing since 1355; in 1527, it was one of the nine parishes of the Viscounty of Maremne. A former royal road from Bordeaux to Bayonne is also part of the town’s history. Bénesse-Maremne lay along this road, which follows the route of the Roman Chemin d’Aquitaine. A horse relay station was established in the Ausse district in 1609.
The parish church of Saint-Martin has building phases dating from 1855, 1871 and 1873. The original church stood on the site of the present-day cemetery; after being restored in 1855, it was rebuilt at its current location in 1873. The building has an elongated floor plan, a polygonal chancel and a porch. A polygonal end consists of several wall surfaces. The sacristy is located against the north wall of the chancel.
The built heritage also includes Moulin de Lamothe, where remains of the former millrace inlet are preserved. The miller’s house is still standing and probably dates from the 19th century.
Sports facilities and pelota
The public sports facilities in Zone Sports are in the town centre. They can be reached on foot or by bicycle and are freely accessible year-round. Facilities include a fronton for Basque pelota, a bowl skatepark, three tennis courts and a pétanque court. There is also a children’s playground, outdoor table-tennis tables and outdoor fitness equipment.
The covered jaï-alaï fronton was built in 1987. It has a deeper left wall and a 54-to-60-metre-long cancha, or playing area. Admission to the Ludo-Médiathèque L'Escale des Livres is free for residents of Bénesse-Maremne and visitors alike.
Wetlands and trails
The Marais d’Orx, a 1,000-hectare wetland designated as a Natura 2000 site, begins south of Bénesse-Maremne. A marked trail lets visitors explore different aspects of its biodiversity. The approximately 8 km “Tuc des Neuf églises” loop also runs through the area around Bénesse-Maremne. It passes through forests, sandy vineyards and wetlands, with scenic viewpoints along the way. Check the route details locally before setting out.
Honey producer and regional products
Apis Mellona offers year-round tours of its honey production facility, with tastings. Visits to the beehives are available seasonally from April to August. Tours require advance registration; confirm booking details and seasonal access in advance. The range also includes local honey from southwestern France, produced by an apiary between the ocean and pine forest. Product availability may vary seasonally.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Paul-En-Born, Ychoux, Saugnac-Et-Cambran, Hagetmau, Créon-D'armagnac, Vielle-Soubiran, Labrit, Benquet
For the regional travel overview: Landes.
