Nearby open-air swimming pool
Cassen is a typical Landaise village in France's Sud-Ouest region. Like most of the south-west, it fell under British rule for some three centuries, and the locals remain very pro-British! Parts of nearby Dax were built by Richard the LionHeart. Cassen has some beautiful walks as well a pretty lake with picnic area, with ample opportunity for canoeing, fishing and horseriding.
A wonderful Ferme Auberge, run by the village mayor and his wife, specialises in the local duck and is within easy walking distance. There is a well-stocked supermarket in nearby Pontonx, ten minutes' drive away, although it's worth being aware that most French shops close on Saturday afternoons, all day Sunday, and on Monday mornings - as well as a two hour lunch break. However, they tend to be open until later in the evening. There is a local boulangerie in the next village, about ten minutes away by bicycle.
The region itself boasts beautiful pine forests, as well as some 35km of fine beaches. There are nearby swimming lakes at Mugron and Leon, which offer shaded picnic areas as well as windsurfing, sailing and salmon fishing at Hastingues.
St Paul les Dax
Dax is France's foremost spa town, with a beautiful lake fed by hot thermal waters that were first discovered and used by the Romans. As well as this bathing opportunity, there is also a n old town area with a fantastic Saturday morning market, and the ubiquitous Auchan mall for those who like some serious retail therapy. Dax also has a premiership rugby club, and a cathedral that dates back to the seventeenth century.
Biarritz
About an hour's drive, Biarritz has chic shops, street restaurants, a sweeping promenade and a grande plage that was historically popular not only with European royalty - including Queen Victoria herself - but also Frank Sinatra!
Hossegor
Widely known as the surfing capital of Europe, Hossegor is just forty-five minutes from Cassen.
Pyrenees
The majestic Pyrenees are within easy striking distance - within an hour and half you can enjoy magnificent skiing, walking, as well as picturesque towns like St-Jean-Pied-De-Port, with a unique Pays Basque character.
Gourette and La Pierre Saint-Martin
A great place to stay.. not just for the summer.
Skiing in Gourette
Skiing in La Pierre Saint-Martin
There is so much to do in the area (everything except snorkelling because of the surfing waves!) it's impossible to list it all but here are some ideas and reference sites that may be of interest...
Click below for more information:
Click here for another useful website for additional information including Golf, Restaurant's, Bikes, Surf, Beaches, Ski, Wine, Chateau's, La Thune, Art, Museum's etc.