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Soorts-Hossegor (French pronunciation: [sɔʁts ɔsəɡɔʁ]; Occitan: Sòrts e Òssagòr, pronounced [sɔrts e ˈɔsoɡɔr], locally [sɔrts e ˌɔsəɣɔɾ]) is a commune in the French department of Landes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, southwestern France, 20 km (12 miles) north of Biarritz. The town is on a 3,700-acre (1,500 ha) plot of land with 4 beaches on 3.5 km of European Atlantic shoreline, and a lake.

Key Information

Its inhabitants are called Hossegoriens. The area has been inhabited for a millennium, it became a pilgrimage stop off in the 14th century and has since become a well-known seaside resort as of the 19th century. The town's economy is centered around the sport of surfing, and the local beach is a world famous surf break. When possible, the town co-hosts the World Surf League yearly competitions along with the neighbouring towns of Capbreton and Seignosse. Since the 1980s, global companies have established themselves in the town's industrial park.

Name

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In 1913, the town associated the toponym of Hossegor, from the name of its marine lake, with its original name of Soorts. The root of the name Soorts is probably close to that of Sorde, the verb gascon sórder or sordar, sourdre, meaning "where there are sources". Related names are Sor (Ariège, Sort) and Sort-en-Chalosse (Landes) from the same Gascon etymon. The origin of Hossegor is more obscure: it may be an Aquitain or Basque name to be attached to the hydronyms osse and the adjective gorri, meaning "dry water".[citation needed]

History

[edit]

The history of the town and inhabited area originated in the 11th century with the town of Soorts. The local church was built in the 14th century as a costal path to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. And, Bielle farm, the town's oldest building was constructed at that time.[3]

In the 19th century, the town of Soorts began its transformation into a local hub. Starting in 1869, with the digging of the Hossegor pond canal towards the sea, which is 99 hectares in size today. Then in 1913, a stone bridge was constructed, connecting the ponds and lake. On April 1 of that year, thanks to an increase in tourism, the local government decided to add the name of Hossegor to the town of Soorts, thus creating Soorts-Hossegor, as it's known today.[3] Some noteworthy visitors early to Soorts-Hossegor have included J.H. Rosny in 1903 and Paul Margueritte in 1909. Other personalities later joined them, like Charles Derennes in 1913, then Maxime Leroy, Gaston Chérau, Pierre Benoit, Tristan Dereme and Leon Blum in 1920.[citation needed]

In 1923, the seaside town was connected via railway for the first time, and the town became known as a seaside resort. Then between 1929-1939, the area was transformed into the town and seaside resort it is today. Under the leadership of 5 French architects,[a] there was the construction of around 400 villas (183 today), hotels, a golf course.[3] Also, the Place des Landis, built in 1928, by the Gomez brothers, the 1km beachfront pedestrian esplanade was built in the art deco style. The construction of homes and businesses were in a Basque-Landes architectural style unique to the area. The town was mostly developed during the interwar period and considered a part of the neo-Basque regionalist movement.[4] Also, the sports casino was built in the years of 1927-1931, in the same local Basque-Landes style.[5] Many hotels were built at that time, such as Les Hortensias du Lac, a four-star luxury hotel with an extraordinary view of the marine lake, and the Mercedes, a three-star hotel near the city center overlooking the canal.

Development continued in Hoessgor after the art-deco era. A small industrial park was built, with the relocation of the headquarters of the European branch of the surf brand Rip Curl to the area in 1980, today followed by the HQ's for the surf companies Quiksilver, Billabong and Rusty.[3][6]

Sports

[edit]

There are many sports played in the town, such as swimming, tennis, horse riding and Basque pelote.

Surfing

[edit]
See also: Quiksilver Pro France and Roxy Pro France
Hossegor 2013 surf competition

The naming of Hossegor in the Gascon language is to do with the 'gouf of Capbreton', an underwater canyon thousands of metres deep and hundreds of kilometres long, this creates waves from the ocean on the Landes coast. It was in the 1950s when surfing became popular in the town. In the Landes region are several good surfing spots which are enjoyed when possible by the public and also professional athletes as part of yearly competition.[3][7]

Since 1984, the French Surf Federation has its headquarters in Hossegor.[3][8] As part of the World Surf League, there is a stage designated to the local Hossegor area for a surf competition. Depending on the weather, the competition is held at the end of September.[9] Since 1987, the competition brings the biggest names in surfing, and the tour competition is split between the men's Quiksilver Pro France and women's Roxy Pro France events.[10] The Hossegor coast has been one of the few world class surfing locations in Atlantic Europe, with beach breaks at Gravière and La Nord, Les Estagnots.[11] Also, there's nearby beach breaks in Capbreton and Seignosse, which have shared the surf competition due to differing wave conditions.[12] Another event takes place during Easter weekend: the sale of "spirit surf" clothes. More than 100,000 people flock to the craft zone, looking to purchase sports wear, or equipment.[citation needed]

Golf

[edit]

It was in 1927 that the local golf course was built.[3] Each summer the Grand Prix des Landes takes place on the Hossegor golf course, the course is a part of the European Golf Association.[13]

Jai alai

[edit]
Hossegor's purpose built Jai Alai sports areana.[14]

In 1958, the first Jai alai (Basque sport) sporting location in France opened in Soorts-Hossegor. Since 2019, there has been an annual competition televised on the Canal+ Sports channel, and now a roof has been to the arena.[3][14][15]

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Soorts-Hossegor (1981–2010 averages, extremes 1954–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 22.5
(72.5) 		28.9
(84.0) 		30.0
(86.0) 		34.0
(93.2) 		36.5
(97.7) 		40.6
(105.1) 		41.0
(105.8) 		40.5
(104.9) 		39.0
(102.2) 		33.9
(93.0) 		29.0
(84.2) 		24.2
(75.6) 		41.0
(105.8)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 11.9
(53.4) 		13.3
(55.9) 		16.1
(61.0) 		17.6
(63.7) 		21.1
(70.0) 		23.6
(74.5) 		25.8
(78.4) 		26.3
(79.3) 		24.5
(76.1) 		20.6
(69.1) 		15.2
(59.4) 		12.3
(54.1) 		19.1
(66.4)
Daily mean °C (°F) 7.8
(46.0) 		8.7
(47.7) 		11.1
(52.0) 		12.9
(55.2) 		16.4
(61.5) 		19.2
(66.6) 		21.3
(70.3) 		21.6
(70.9) 		19.3
(66.7) 		15.9
(60.6) 		11.1
(52.0) 		8.4
(47.1) 		14.5
(58.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 3.8
(38.8) 		4.0
(39.2) 		6.1
(43.0) 		8.1
(46.6) 		11.7
(53.1) 		14.7
(58.5) 		16.8
(62.2) 		16.9
(62.4) 		14.0
(57.2) 		11.1
(52.0) 		6.9
(44.4) 		4.6
(40.3) 		9.9
(49.8)
Record low °C (°F) −13.3
(8.1) 		−12.9
(8.8) 		−8.0
(17.6) 		−2.7
(27.1) 		1.0
(33.8) 		5.1
(41.2) 		7.5
(45.5) 		8.3
(46.9) 		3.8
(38.8) 		−0.9
(30.4) 		−6.6
(20.1) 		−10.2
(13.6) 		−13.3
(8.1)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 105.8
(4.17) 		85.2
(3.35) 		75.6
(2.98) 		97.4
(3.83) 		83.6
(3.29) 		67.6
(2.66) 		56.2
(2.21) 		74.6
(2.94) 		91.6
(3.61) 		116.9
(4.60) 		154.0
(6.06) 		116.6
(4.59) 		1,125.1
(44.30)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 13.0 11.0 11.1 12.8 11.2 8.7 7.3 7.9 9.0 11.8 13.2 12.8 129.9
Source: Météo France[16]

Population

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In 2020, the town had 3,497 inhabitants, a decrease of 7.8% compared to 2012.

Twin town

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See also: List of twin towns and sister cities in France
[edit]
  • Plage Centrale
    Plage Centrale
  • Basque-Landis architecture
    Basque-Landis architecture
  • The Notre Dame Beach in Soorts-Hossegor
    The Notre Dame Beach in Soorts-Hossegor
  • Note Dame beach, Lucien Danglade statue
    Note Dame beach, Lucien Danglade statue
  • Beach panoramic view
    Beach panoramic view
  • Entrance for boats to marina
    Entrance for boats to marina

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Soorts-Hossegor

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Soorts-Hossegor is a coastal commune in the Landes department of southwestern France, within the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, celebrated for its expansive Atlantic beaches, world-class surfing spots, and a distinctive Basco-Landais architectural style that blends natural landscapes with early 20th-century resort elegance. Spanning approximately 14.51 square kilometers with a population of 3,669 as of 2022, it features a mild oceanic climate, a 99-hectare marine lake, and over 500 hectares of pine forests, making it a prime destination for water sports, eco-tourism, and cultural events. The commune's dual identity—merging the traditional inland village of Soorts with the seaside station of Hossegor—defines its character as a preserved heritage site recognized with the "Ville de Surf" label in 2022. Geographically, Soorts-Hossegor occupies a dynamic terrain of contrasts, including 3.5 kilometers of oceanfront with four sandy beaches ideal for surfing, four lakeside beaches along the Lac d'Hossegor, expansive dunes, and protected wetlands known as barthes. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the lake to the east, the area integrates 1,500 hectares of natural and residential zones, with elevations ranging from sea level to 55 meters, fostering biodiversity in its forests and coastal ecosystems. This setting, 25 kilometers north of Biarritz, supports a population density of 252.9 inhabitants per square kilometer, emphasizing sustainable development amid tourism pressures. Historically, the commune traces its roots to the as the rural settlement of Soorts, a Basque-Landes farming community reliant on and , until the early when visionary entrepreneurs and architects transformed the adjacent Hossegor area into a chic . In 1913, the names were merged to form Soorts-Hossegor, followed by key infrastructure like the 1924 Mercedes bridge linking lake and sea, and the 1927 opening of the Sporting-Casino, a multifunctional hub. By the , additions such as a solidified its reputation as a hub for "elegant sports," with the first French Jai alai court opening in 1958; evolving from wild dunes to a planned "" that now boasts 183 protected villas. Today, Soorts-Hossegor's economy thrives on , with as a cornerstone—hosting international competitions and nurturing champions—complemented by markets, cultural festivals, and eco-initiatives like lake . Demographically, it features an aging , with 52.6% over 60 years old, 1,843 households averaging 1.92 persons, and a slight female majority (53.7%), reflecting a retiree-friendly coastal . The commune's commitment to heritage preservation, including twinning with Taiarapu-Ouest in since 2022, underscores its blend of global and local identity.

Geography

Location

Soorts-Hossegor is a commune situated in the Landes department (department number 40) within the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. Its precise geographical coordinates are 43°39′54″N 1°23′50″W, placing it along the Atlantic coast in the heart of the Landes region. The commune encompasses an area of 14.51 km² (5.60 sq mi), characterized by a mix of coastal dunes, pine forests, and urban developments. Positioned strategically near the Spanish border, Soorts-Hossegor lies approximately 20 km north of and about 175 km north of , , enhancing its appeal as a cross-border destination. The area benefits from robust transport infrastructure, including direct access via the A63 motorway (Autoroute des Vagues), which connects it efficiently to and . The nearest airport, Biarritz-Anglet-, is roughly 20 km south, while the train station, serving regional and high-speed lines, is approximately 25 km away. Internally, Soorts-Hossegor is divided into distinct zones that reflect its dual character: Hossegor serves as the primary area, featuring beaches and the central lake; Soorts represents the inland historic village with traditional architecture; and a , including shops and outlets, is located about 4 km inland from the coast. This spatial organization supports a blend of residential, touristic, and economic functions while preserving the commune's coastal identity.

Natural features

Soorts-Hossegor features a 3.5-kilometer stretch of Atlantic coastline characterized by wide, sandy beaches backed by dunes. The area includes four principal beaches: Plage Centrale, Plage du Sud, Plage des Culs Nuls (a designated naturist beach), and Plage de La Gravière. These beaches form part of the dynamic coastal environment where ocean waves interact with shifting sands, creating natural that shape the underwater . Inland from the shoreline lies Lac d'Hossegor, a 99-hectare marine lake connected to the Atlantic Ocean via the , allowing tidal influences to maintain its brackish waters. The lake is surrounded by a mix of residential areas and green spaces, supporting a unique with calm conditions suitable for various aquatic activities and , including that yields around 20 tonnes annually. The topography of Soorts-Hossegor consists of flat coastal dunes and extensive pine forests typical of the Les Landes region, which historically transformed marshy moors into a vast forested plain covering much of southwestern . The commune encompasses approximately 1,500 hectares of land, integrating these dune systems and maritime pine woodlands that provide a natural buffer against . Adjacent to the town, the Les Barthes nature reserve spans 50 hectares of meadows and peat bogs, fostering rich including nesting and migratory birds, , , and diverse in a rare humid contrast to the surrounding dry forests.

Climate

Soorts-Hossegor features an classified as Cfb under the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by mild temperatures, consistent moisture, and no pronounced . The average annual temperature is 14.9°C (58.8°F), based on records from 1991 to 2020. Annual precipitation averages 1,181.8 mm (46.5 in), with the wettest months occurring in winter, such as November at 169.9 mm (6.7 in), while summers remain mild and relatively drier. Seasonal temperature extremes include average summer highs of approximately 25°C (77°F) in and , and winter lows around 5°C (41°F) in and , with frosts occurring rarely—temperatures drop below 0°C on fewer than 25 days per year on average. Prevailing westerly winds from the Atlantic dominate for over half the year, from late through early , with average speeds peaking at 15.2 km/h (9.4 mph) in ; these winds enhance the region's surf conditions.

History

Early settlement

The earliest traces of human settlement in Soorts-Hossegor date back to the 11th century, when the Gascon village of Soorts emerged as a modest rural community in the Landes region. First mentioned in historical archives during the 11th and 12th centuries, Soorts was primarily inhabited by fishermen, muleteers, woodcutters, and resin workers who relied on the surrounding dunes, forests, and coastal waters for sustenance. The of the place names reflects its roots. "Soorts" likely derives from the Occitan verb sórder, meaning "to spring" or "to gush," alluding to local springs and sources in the marshy landscape. "Hossegor," referring to the nearby marine lake, has a more obscure origin, possibly from an or Basque term combining a like osse () with gorri (red or dry in Basque), suggesting reddish or drying waters in the former wetlands. During the medieval period, Soorts gained modest significance as a stop on the coastal branch of the Way of St. James (), known as the Voie de Soulac or voie du littoral. In the , the village church was constructed along this pilgrimage route, which traversed the Landes coastline from Soulac-sur-Mer toward , providing shelter and spiritual respite for travelers. The pre-resort economy remained agrarian and extractive, centered on in the sandy soils, fishing in the Atlantic and emerging lake systems, and forestry activities such as pine resin tapping, which were staples of the broader Landes economy until the . The area's name evolved to reflect its dual identity: originally known simply as Soorts, the commune officially combined with the district of Hossegor in through a ministerial decree, becoming Soorts-Hossegor to acknowledge the growing prominence of the lakeside quarter.

Resort development

Soorts-Hossegor began its transformation into a around 1900, when it emerged as one of the early 20th-century "water cities" along the Landes coast, drawing initial visitors including writers who established a cultural presence there. This period marked the town's first wave of success as a destination for elite vacationers seeking the Atlantic's natural beauty and mild climate. Preceding the resort era, a was dug in 1869 to connect the Hossegor lake to the sea, transforming the local and laying the groundwork for future development. The from 1929 to 1939 saw a significant boom in , solidifying Hossegor's reputation as an upscale retreat. In 1927, an 18-hole was constructed amid pine and cork oak forests by architects Arnaud Massy and John Morrison, attracting affluent sports enthusiasts and contributing to the town's elegant sporting identity. Between 1930 and 1935, sumptuous villas were built in the distinctive Basco-Landaise style—characterized by white plaster walls, overhanging roofs with colored beams, and loggias—along the seafront, lake, and avenues, blending and regional influences, contributing to over 400 villas constructed by the end of the decade. Complementing this growth, the Place des Landais and its 1 km -style were developed in 1928 by the Gomez brothers, enhancing the waterfront's aesthetic appeal and accessibility. Post-World War II development accelerated in the with the introduction of , pioneered by figures like Jack Rott, who first rode Hossegor's waves in using a homemade board, sparking the sport's growth along the Landes coast. Key milestones followed, including the construction of France's first arena in 1958 to host the World Cesta Punta Championships, a 56-meter-long fronton that underscored Hossegor's commitment to Basque sports traditions. By 1984, the French Federation relocated its headquarters to Hossegor from , further cementing the town's status as a surfing hub and boosting its modern resort infrastructure.

Administration and demographics

Local government

Soorts-Hossegor is a commune located in the Landes department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwestern France. It holds the INSEE code 40304 and uses the postal code 40150. The commune's administrative divisions encompass the formerly distinct areas of Soorts and Hossegor, which were unified under a single municipal entity in 1913 when the name was officially changed to Soorts-Hossegor to reflect the growing significance of the Hossegor district. This structure maintains a centralized governance for the combined territory, overseen by the municipal council. The local government is led by Christophe Vignaud, who was elected in June 2020 following a closely contested second round of the municipal elections, securing his position for the term from 2020 to 2026. Vignaud heads a 27-member municipal council, comprising the mayor, seven deputy mayors with delegated responsibilities in areas such as , , and , and additional councilors focused on sectors like education, environment, and social services. The council convenes as needed to address communal affairs, with meetings open to the to promote transparency in decision-making. Key administrative services are housed in the town hall (mairie) located at 18 Avenue de Paris in the Soorts section of the commune, which operates through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The municipality also provides community facilities, including a cultural service that supports such as exhibitions, book fairs, and events under the delegation of councilors responsible for cultural affairs. Residents have access to nearby media libraries in the , such as in .

Population

As of the 2022 census by the Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (INSEE), Soorts-Hossegor has a permanent population of 3,669 inhabitants, yielding a density of 252.9 inhabitants per square kilometer across its 14.51 km² area. This marks a decline of approximately 3.2% from the 3,792 residents recorded in 2012, continuing a modest downward trend observed since the early 2010s amid stable or slightly decreasing birth rates and migration patterns. Despite this, the commune experiences a pronounced seasonal swell, with the effective population rising to nearly 50,000 during peak summer months due to tourism. The demographic structure skews toward older residents, with 52.6% of the aged 60 or above in , including 26.0% over 75 years old. The average age stands at 54 years, indicative of a in the mid-50s, shaped by retirement migration and limited influx of younger families. This aging profile is amplified by the prevalence of second homes, which account for 64.9% of the commune's 5,737 housing units and reflect a growing segment of non-permanent owners drawn to the coastal lifestyle. Historically, the population expanded from roughly 1,000 inhabitants around 1900 to 2,071 by 1968, accelerating through the late as resort development attracted seasonal and permanent settlers. Growth peaked at 3,758 in 2011, fueled by the town's emergence as a premier seaside destination, before stabilizing with recent declines.

Economy

Tourism

Soorts-Hossegor attracts a significant number of visitors annually, with peaks during the summer months driven by its appeal for relaxation and immersion in natural surroundings. The town's coastal and lacustrine setting draws tourists seeking serene escapes, contributing to a seasonal influx that supports local services and amenities. Key non-sports attractions include the Hossegor market, held regularly throughout the year and expanding in summer with stalls offering fresh produce, local crafts, and regional specialties. Lakeside walks around Lac d'Hossegor provide tranquil paths for leisurely strolls amid scenic water views, while tasting experiences at the lake highlight the area's tradition, featuring fleshy, iodine-rich oysters cultivated in the marine lagoon. These activities emphasize the town's emphasis on and gentle outdoor pursuits. The infrastructure supports this visitor flow with over 400 villas available for rent, alongside a range of hotels from establishments to resorts, and the Sporting , which offers gaming, dining, and leisure facilities including a seasonal pool. boutiques in the town center cater to tourists with local and designer goods, enhancing the resort-like atmosphere. forms a major pillar of the local , structuring much of the balnéaire and service sectors and generating substantial , particularly through seasonal operations that account for a significant portion of annual income. Summer festivals, such as the Hossegor book fair in July and the Little Festival spanning late July to early August, bolster this by drawing crowds for cultural and musical events. Sustainability efforts address challenges like water management, especially amid peak-season pressures; in 2023, broader droughts in raised concerns for operations, prompting measures to conserve resources and mitigate shortages in coastal areas including the .

Surfing industry

Soorts-Hossegor serves as a major hub for the European industry, hosting headquarters and production facilities for several leading global that contribute significantly to the local and . The Parc d'Activités Pédebert, originally developed as an artisan zone in the late , has evolved into a key industrial area dedicated to surf-related manufacturing and retail, featuring factory outlets and operational bases for companies such as , Quiksilver, , and . established its European headquarters in the area in the early , drawing subsequent investments from other and creating hundreds of direct employment opportunities in design, production, and distribution. The surfing sector in Soorts-Hossegor is bolstered by high-profile international events, most notably the Quiksilver Pro , first held in Hossegor in 1999 and serving as an annual stop on the since 2012 at the renowned La Gravière beach break. This competition attracts elite professional surfers from around the world, generating substantial revenue through sponsorships, media coverage, and ancillary spending on accommodations and services. In 2025, the Quiksilver Festival continued to draw global attention, underscoring the enduring economic benefits despite challenges like the retail of operator Liberated Brands earlier that year, which did not impact European and production. Locally, the industry supports a network of surf shops, equipment rental services, and training schools that cater to both residents and visitors, further amplifying economic activity. Economically, the industry plays a pivotal role in the Landes region, where it contributes to broader and revenues estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros annually across southwestern . The concentration of brands and events has positioned Soorts-Hossegor as an innovation center, with the French Surf Federation moving its headquarters there in 1984 (and reaffirming its presence with a second relocation in 2010) to oversee national training, competitions, and development initiatives. This presence enhances the town's global reputation as the "Surf Capital of ," drawing international talent and investment while fostering advancements in surf technology and safety standards.

Sports

Surfing

Surfing in Soorts-Hossegor emerged as a pioneering activity in during the , with the town's expansive Atlantic beach breaks quickly attracting early enthusiasts drawn to the powerful waves formed by the region's coastal geography. The sport's introduction to the area coincided with the broader arrival of in southwest , where local pioneers experimented with imported boards and techniques inspired by American and Hawaiian influences. By 1957, Jacky Rott, recognized as one of the first French surfers to stand up on a board, contributed to the nascent scene through board shaping and demonstrations, helping to popularize the activity among locals and visitors in nearby coastal communities including Hossegor. The town features five primary beach breaks, each offering distinct wave characteristics suited to various skill levels and board types. La Gravière stands out for its heavy, barreling waves that form fast, hollow tubes, making it a challenging spot ideal for advanced surfers seeking high-performance rides. In contrast, Les Culs Nus provides more forgiving, mellow waves that favor , with consistent peaks that allow for drawn-out turns and nose rides, particularly during mid-tide conditions. Other notable breaks include La Sud for beginners with softer rollers, La Centrale for all-around accessibility, and La Nord for punchier sections when swells align from the northwest. These spots collectively draw surfers year-round, though conditions peak in autumn and winter with swells up to 10-15 feet. Numerous surf schools and rental outfits operate along the coastline, providing and instruction to cater to novices and seasoned riders alike. Facilities at Plage Centrale serve as the primary access point, featuring board rentals starting from basic soft-tops for learners to high-performance shortboards, often bundled with wetsuits suited to the chilly Atlantic waters. Schools such as Yosurf and offer structured lessons emphasizing technique and awareness, with group sessions limited to small numbers for personalized guidance. These amenities make the area accessible, enabling visitors to progress from paddling to riding green waves within a few sessions. Surfing holds deep cultural significance in Soorts-Hossegor, fostering a vibrant community through annual events that blend competition with local traditions. The Quiksilver Pro France, part of the , was hosted here from 2011 to 2022, showcasing elite athletes in high-stakes heats at La Gravière and drawing international crowds to celebrate the sport's evolution. Since 2023, the Quiksilver Festival has been held annually, continuing to feature top surfers in a week-long event combining competition, music, and art. Legendary figures like , a three-time world champion, honed their skills in the area's powerful waves during the late while residing in southwest , influencing generations with his fluid style and innovative approaches to tube riding. These gatherings not only highlight athletic prowess but also reinforce Hossegor's status as Europe's surfing epicenter, with post-event festivals featuring music and art that integrate the activity into the town's identity. Safety measures are prioritized to support recreational , with seasonal services operating from to across supervised beaches, including patrols equipped for rescues and . Access to spots like Les Culs Nus is managed separately due to its designated naturist status, where clothing-optional zones are cordoned off from textile areas to ensure privacy and compliance with local regulations, while maintaining open pathways for surfers entering the water. Visitors are advised to check flags for conditions—red for hazardous—and respect zoning to avoid conflicts, promoting a harmonious environment for all users.

Golf

The Golf d'Hossegor, an 18-hole championship course, was established in 1927 and opened in 1930 as a key element in transforming Soorts-Hossegor into an elite emphasizing refined sports. Designed by renowned English architect John S.F. Morrison in collaboration with French professional Arnaud Massy and landscape designer Charles Bouhana, the course reflects British heathland influences adapted to the local sandy terrain and pine forests. It measures 5,797 meters from the white tees with a par of 71, featuring gently undulating fairways lined by mature pines and cork oaks that provide natural framing and shelter from coastal winds. The layout emphasizes strategic play through well-placed bunkers and subtle elevation changes, with minimal water hazards, allowing for a walkable and forgiving yet challenging experience suitable for all skill levels. Updated in 2003 by architect Cabell B. Robinson and recalibrated in 2023, the course maintains its historical integrity while incorporating modern agronomic practices. It hosts a variety of national and international tournaments, including youth development events that have nurtured talents like Jean Van de Velde, contributing to its reputation as a hub for competitive in the region. Open to the public, the Golf d'Hossegor operates with green fees starting around €70, and reservations are recommended due to high demand; it integrates seamlessly with local hotel packages for resort visitors seeking combined leisure options. Ranked among the top 10 golf courses in and within the world's 1,000 best by the Rolex Golf Guide, it is particularly praised for its scenic integration into the , offering a tranquil, picturesque setting that enhances the resort's appeal.

Jai alai

, known locally as cesta , is a fast-paced variant of played in Soorts-Hossegor using a cesta punta, a curved basket glove that allows players to hurl a small, hard ball at speeds reaching up to 250 km/h, making it one of the world's fastest ball sports. This discipline traces its roots to medieval games like paume and has deep ties to Basque Country traditions, emphasizing precision, agility, and competitive fervor in a three-walled court. The Fronton Jai Alai Hossegor, constructed in 1958, serves as the primary venue and stands as one of Europe's largest covered courts at 56 meters in length, marking it as the first such facility built in . It was specifically erected to host the 1958 World Championships of , organized by the International Federation of , which drew international competitors and solidified the town's role in the sport's global landscape. Today, the fronton hosts national tournaments, including professional events like the Masters Pro , and remains open to spectators for matches as well as to players for reservations and participation. In Soorts-Hossegor, embodies a vital link to Basque heritage, fostering cultural continuity through community engagement and youth development programs offered by local clubs such as ASH Pelote. These initiatives provide initiation and improvement courses for all ages, with qualified instructors emphasizing skill-building and the sport's historical significance, helping to cultivate new generations of players amid the region's broader sporting traditions. The venue integrates into a larger multi-sports complex adjacent to the Sporting Casino's outdoor courts and Soorts' trinquet, enhancing accessibility for training and events while equipment like chisteras, palas, and helmets is provided on-site.

Culture and landmarks

Notable sites

Soorts-Hossegor features several architectural landmarks that reflect its early 20th-century development as a . The Place des Landais, constructed in by the brothers Gomez, exemplifies the Basco-Landais style with its and ornate details blending regional influences. Similarly, the Sporting , inaugurated in , showcases Art aesthetics in its interior design and harmonizes with surrounding villas through neo-classical elements. Cultural sites in the area include the lakeside promenade around Hossegor Lake, a 7-kilometer pedestrian path lined with information panels that highlights the local and . In Soorts village, the Église Saint-Étienne stands as a Gothic-style structure dating to the 13th or , featuring a single-nave plan, sculpted porch, and later 19th-century additions like a stone added in 1890. The town hosts regular markets emphasizing local produce, such as the year-round producer market at Place du Trinquet in Soorts, held on Saturdays, where vendors offer fresh , fruits, cheeses, and artisanal from regional producers. Summer brings vibrant music festivals, including Latinossegor, a free three-day event in early September featuring , dance, and cultural performances on the lakeside Place des Landais. Les Barthes, a 50-hectare protected wetland reserve adjacent to Hossegor Lake, serves as a key site for birdwatching, with observation points revealing diverse species like herons, egrets, and migratory birds amid its marshy meadows and peat bogs. Contemporary developments include boutique shops along the lakefront, such as Honeybunch and Frida, offering curated fashion and local crafts, alongside wellness spas like the Seren'ity Spa at Villa Seren, which provides treatments, heated pools, and saunas focused on relaxation.

Twin towns

Soorts-Hossegor maintains a twin town partnership with Taiʻarapu-Ouest in French Polynesia, officially established on May 11, 2022. This twinning highlights the shared heritage in surfing and ocean sports, as both locations are renowned for their world-class waves—Hossegor's Atlantic breaks and Taiʻarapu-Ouest's iconic Teahupoʻo site, which hosted surfing events for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The partnership fosters cultural and social exchanges, emphasizing Polynesian-French ties through community living and natural preservation. The collaboration promotes educational and tourism initiatives, including annual anniversary celebrations with festive events, youth exchanges, and joint surfing programs. For instance, delegations from Taiʻarapu-Ouest, encompassing associated communes like Toahotu, Vairao, and Teahupoʻo, visit Soorts-Hossegor to participate in local traditions and promote mutual understanding. These activities aim to strengthen interpersonal links and highlight sustainable coastal lifestyles. Additionally, Soorts-Hossegor nurtures informal ties with Basque regions, particularly through shared traditions in (pelota basque), facilitated by local frontons and cross-border cultural events.

References

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