Cultural getaway in Mont-de-Marsan
If you love the charm of the villages of south-west France, you’ll be immediately seduced by the rich heritage that the town of Mont-de-Marsan boasts.
Diving into the heart of a unique heritage
As you stroll through the narrow streets of Mont-de-Marsan, admire the architecture of this town in the Landes region, particularly the Romanesque houses dating back to the 12th century.
Start your tour at the Tribunal de Grande Instance, take rue Maubec, then continue to rue Victor Hugo and join rue Pujolin.
Here, you’ll be able to admire a beautiful Romanesque house, facing a building that combines antiquity with contemporary touches.
Continue along rue Lacataye towards the museum footbridge.
Take the Promenade du 21 Août 1944 and the Rue des Remparts, which offers a splendid view of the historic buildings of this Landes town.
Finish your itinerary with discover the heritage of Mont-de-Marsan through the ruelle Jeanne d’Albert, which leads directly to the Musée Despiau-Wlérick.
The Despiau-Wlérick museum, the historic heart of the city of Montpellier
This Montois museum, housed in a 13th-century building, will delight art and sculpture enthusiasts.
Two gardens, accessible to visitors, surround this place of culture.
Throughout the year, the Musée Despiau-Wlérick hosts events for all ages: conferences, archaeology days and relaxation areas.
In 2018, this key museum in the Landes region joined the Happy Museums community, pledging to improve its welcome for young people and families.
A fun booklet for children enriches the experience of young visitors.
The Plumaçon bullring: a leading Montagne symbol
The Plumaçon arena is a must-see in Mont-de-Marsan.
They can accommodate up to 7,000 spectators and are the venue for some 480 events every year.
On the program: bullfighting shows, Landes races and bullfights.
Guided tours of the bullring are available on Thursday mornings in summer, and can be booked through the Mont-de-Marsan Tourist Office.
Le Donjon de Lacataye: medieval guardian of Mont-de-Marsan
The Donjon de Lacataye, located in the center of Mont-de-Marsan, is a fortified house of Romanesque architecture.
Built in the 14th century, it was used to protect the town of Mont-de-Marsan and keep watch over the surrounding area.
Today, it houses the Musée de Dubalen, dedicated to natural history and archaeological collections.
This historic Montois building, an important witness to medieval times, offers a unique insight into the history of the Landes region.
A visit to the keep is a must for history and heritage enthusiasts.
A bucolic break in the capital of the Landes region
Right next to the city’s bustling squares, green spaces invite you to escape the urban hustle and bustle.
Mont-de-Marsan is crossed by two rivers that join to form the Midouze.
These waterways add a peaceful, natural charm to this Landes town.
From the Pont des Droits de l’Homme, the view of the confluence of the rivers and the historic buildings is breathtaking.
Cross the moat footbridge, accessible from the Donjon traffic circle, for a moment of tranquillity in the heart of nature.
This footbridge leads to the museum terrace, the remnants of the ramparts and the old washhouse, offering a journey through time.
Parc Jean Rameau, north of Mont-de-Marsan, is a haven of peace for nature lovers.
Dedicated to the Landes-born poet and novelist of the same name, this 6-hectare park is ideal for strolling, resting or exercising.
The many trees create an idyllic setting for a shady break.
The Mont-de-Marsan market: a lively, gourmet venue
The Mont-de-Marsan market is held on Place Saint-Roch.
The square is a meeting point for locals, local farmers and regional delicacies.
The colorful stalls and fragrant cuisine of this Mont-de-Marsan market create a unique sensory experience.
Discover Landes pastis, taste foie gras pie and leave with Espelette pepper cheeses.
Ranked as one of France’s 100 most beautiful markets, this Landes market sets the pace for local life and offers a gourmet interlude.
Take a coffee break on the square to experience the rhythm of the South-West and savor the generosity of local produce.
The Mont-de-Marsan market is held on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, from 8am to 1pm, in a large hall brimming with fresh produce and local specialties.
Mont-de-Marsan: queen of the party
If you’re looking for something to see in the Landes region, don’t miss the Fêtes de la Madeleine, one of the Landes region’s must-see festivals, along with Dax.
Every July, Mont-de-Marsan lights up for the Fêtes de la Madeleine, a celebration rich in tradition and festivities.
For five days and nights, this town in the Landes region is decked out in blue and white, welcoming thousands of festival-goers.
The Fêtes de la Madeleine kicks off with the inaugural parade, followed by a host of events including bullfights, musical performances, fireworks and street entertainment.
The town resounds to the sound of bandas, and the atmosphere is one of conviviality and sharing.
The Plumaçon bullring becomes the beating heart of the festivities, with renowned bullfighting shows .
The streets of Mont-de-Marsan fill up with stalls selling food, drink and local crafts, inviting you to immerse yourself in Landes culture.
The Fêtes de la Madeleine are an opportunity to discover the popular fervor and living traditions of Mont-de-Marsan and the Landes.
So, when you’re on vacation at our campsite near Mont-de-Marsan, make sure you visit this must-see town in the Landes!