The origins of the Les Forges district connect a specific local history with a forge beside an artificial lake. The area also offers historic church architecture, a route variation with a botanical focus, and activities related to the pine forests and beekeeping. When planning your trip, you can start by considering whether local history, nature, or a guided experience will shape your stay.
The History of the Forge, the Chapel, and the Church
The Les Forges district began to develop in 1760, when the Seigneur de Rolye had a forge built beside an artificial lake. The district’s origins are therefore tied to a specific construction project and a point in time. The lake is part of the forge’s described location, so the history of Les Forges can be viewed as the story of a particular place and its development.
The Chapelle de Bouricos is a restored chapel dating from the 12th century. Its features include two side chapels, a white marble high altar, and a bell gable. The architecture of the Église Saint Martin de Pontenx-les-Forges has a different focus: it has two naves and features a 15th-century fortified tower. Comparing the two offers distinct perspectives on the local architecture: the chapel’s side chapels, altar, and bell gable, and the Église’s fortified tower and two-nave layout.
Routes and Connections with Nature
The Circuit de la Forge has a variation that runs along a botanical nature trail. This distinction is important when choosing a route: the botanical trail is part of one variation and is not automatically included in every version of the Circuit. If this feature interests you, be sure to select the relevant variation.
The Airial de Bouricos is open to the public and lies in the pine forest of the Landes. The Fontaine St Jean is located at the Airial and is described locally as miraculous; this characterization is part of local tradition. Access arrangements for the Airial may change. If you plan to include the site in your itinerary, it is a good idea to check access conditions before your visit.
Guided Rides and Beekeeping
JVDS – J'veux du Solex offers guided rides on vintage Vélo-Solex mopeds through the pine forests of the Landes and along picturesque paths in Pontenx-les-Forges. The focus here is on a guided ride. If this activity is important to your plans, check availability in advance, as it may change.
Les Ruchers du Born offers a seasonal activity with a beekeeper, suitable for everyone aged six and over. Participants open a beehive together with the beekeeper and learn about a bee colony. Protective clothing is provided. Afterwards, various honeys are sampled with explanations. Sessions take place seasonally and require advance booking. Check the current dates before making firm plans to take part.
When deciding on your trip, distinguish between the historic buildings and local history and the guided or seasonal activities: for the latter, dates and availability are important.
Discover more destinations: Ondres, Belhade, Biarrotte, Tosse, Mauvezin-D'armagnac, Commensacq, Saubusse, Ozourt
For the broader travel overview: Landes.
