Bordeaux to Camping Le Vieux Port in Messanges
One of France's largest 5★ campgrounds: Le Vieux Port, 35 hectares of pine forest in Messanges, just 500 m from the ocean, featuring an XXL water park and the Landes coast (surfing, lakes, Courant d’Huchet)—plus your private door-to-door transfer from Bordeaux, with no need to rent a car.
Method. The distance and duration are route estimates, not actual trip data. The price, starting at €264, matches exactly the amount displayed by the booking engine. Information about the campground is taken from the official Vieux Port website (verified on July 24, 2026).
Camping Le Vieux Port at a Glance
The Vieux Port is located in Messanges, on the Landes coast. From Bordeaux, the page lists a distance of approximately 154 km, an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 50 minutes, and a price starting at 264 €. The official website confirms its 5-star rating and its access to the ocean (verified on July 24, 2026).
Camping Le Vieux Port, located in Messanges in the Landes region, is one of the largest 5-star campgrounds in France: a vast 35-hectare vacation village nestled in a pine forest, just a few hundred meters from the Atlantic Ocean, featuring one of the country’s largest campground water parks. Located on the Silver Coast, between Vieux-Boucau and Messanges-Plage, it offers direct access to the beach (via a path across the dunes), an XXL water park that’s heated and themed, a wellness area, and everything the vast Landes beaches have to offer—surfing, pine forests, lakes, and ocean currents. This guide introduces you to the campground and its region, and most importantly, the easiest way to get there from Bordeaux: a private door-to-door transfer, without renting a car—ideal for a family arriving by plane or train with children and luggage. A beach vacation that gets off to a stress-free start.
Here are the key details to know before you go. The distances listed are based on the figures provided by the booking engine; the price shown is for an executive car service booking with a fixed rate provided in advance, with no unexpected meter charges regardless of traffic or stops along the way. Campground amenities are based on information from its official website—always verify the details of your stay directly with the campground.
| Landmark | Details |
|---|---|
| Camping | Le Vieux Port ★★★★★ (Village Resort & Spa, Resasol Group) |
| Municipality | Messanges (Landes, 40660) · Atlantic Coast |
| Frame | ~35 ha of pine forest · direct access to the beach (dunes) |
| Strengths | Heated XXL water park · spa · surfing |
| Around | Vieux-Boucau, the Courant d'Huchet, Hossegor |
| Distance from Bordeaux | about 154 km · about 1 hour and 50 minutes by car |
A quick note to start with. The campground is located in the town of Messanges, in the Landes (40), on the Atlantic Côte d’Argent, between Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains (to the south) and Moliets-et-Maâ (to the north). Its official name is “Camping Village Resort & Spa Le Vieux Port”; it is rated 5 stars and operated by the Resasol group; the address is 850 Route de la Plage Sud, 40660 Messanges. According to its own claims, it is the largest 5-star campground in France (and not “in Europe,” as is sometimes stated). All information in this guide is based on verifiable sources—the campground’s official website, tourist offices, Wikipedia—and we strictly adhere to the officially described amenities, without making anything up.
Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know: the campground’s location in Messanges and along the Landes coast, the Vieux Port resort and its amenities, what to do on-site and in the surrounding area, the beaches and surfing, the Courant d’Huchet and nature, the Vieux-Boucau marine lake and the Vélodyssée, the southern coast (Hossegor, Capbreton), why a private transfer is ideal for getting to your campground, the best time of year to visit, and the easiest way to get there from Bordeaux—all sourced and verified.
Where is Camping Le Vieux Port located?
Camping Le Vieux Port is located in Messanges, in the Landes region, between Vieux-Boucau and Moliets. It is located about 154 km from Bordeaux. The page indicates an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 50 minutes and a price starting at €264 for the transfer.
Camping Le Vieux Port is located in Messanges, in the Landes department (40), on the Atlantic coast—the Côte d'Argent—between Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains to the south and Messanges-Plage/Moliets to the north. It is one of the most beautiful coastlines in France: the Landes coast, with its endless beaches of fine sand swept by the ocean, its high line of dunes, and above all the immense maritime pine forest that borders it—the largest man-made forest in Western Europe, planted in the 19th century to stabilize the sand dunes. Messanges is a seaside resort in the Marensin region, nestled within this pine forest, with two beaches that are lifeguard-patrolled during the season. The campground, set on 35 hectares of wooded land, is located a few hundred meters from the ocean, in the heart of this landscape of sand and pine trees—an ideal spot for a beach vacation, featuring swimming, surfing, biking through the forest, and the laid-back atmosphere of the Landes region, less than two hours from Bordeaux.
The Landes Coast: Sand and Forest
The Landes coast stretches for over a hundred kilometers, featuring one of Europe’s longest sandy beaches—almost perfectly straight—backed by the pine forest. It’s a region of fresh air: the mighty ocean and its waves (a paradise for surfing), the dunes, bike paths shaded by pine trees, the lakes and ponds behind the coastline (Léon, Soustons, Hossegor) where the water is calm, and the streams—those small rivers that connect the lakes to the sea. The climate here is mild, the atmosphere relaxed and active, and nature is everywhere. Messanges, with its pine forest and beaches, is the epitome of this. And the highlight of the southern Landes coast, around Messanges, is the variety of swimming spots: the ocean for thrills and surfing, and the nearby Vieux-Boucau lagoon for calm waters perfect for families—the best of both worlds, just minutes apart.
Messanges, a resort in the Marensin region
Messanges is a seaside town in the Landes department, located in the natural region of Marensin, between the ocean and the forest. The town has two beaches that are lifeguard-patrolled during the season along the Atlantic coast—Plage Centrale and Plage Sud—stretching for about five kilometers of sand. It’s a small, family-friendly, nature-oriented resort, far from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts: people come here for the beach, the pine forest, and the tranquility. The town is bordered by Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains (with its famous Port d’Albret marine lake), Azur, Soustons, Moliets-et-Maâ, and Léon—all of which are resorts and villages that make up the picturesque southern coast of the Landes region. Le Vieux Port campground, on the outskirts of Messanges, is ideally located for exploring this entire coastline—on foot, by bike (via the Vélodyssée), or with a driver for more distant excursions—all while having the ocean just beyond the dune path.
The Vieux Port Estate
Le Vieux Port is a 35-hectare, 5-star campground nestled in a pine forest—one of the largest in France—featuring an XXL heated water park and direct access to the beach via the dunes. A huge vacation village right by the ocean.
35 hectares of pine forest by the ocean
The Vieux Port is an extraordinary campground in terms of its size: a true vacation village spanning 35 hectares of pine forest, one of the largest 5-star campgrounds in France (the site claims this title—note that it is not the “largest in Europe”). Its main attraction is the sea: the South Beach in Messanges is about 500 meters away, accessible via a safe path through the dunes — a three-minute bike ride or about a ten-minute walk; during the high season (July–August), this beach is lifeguard-patrolled. The campground offers a wide range of accommodations (mobile homes, cottages, campsites) and services, in a shaded, tree-lined setting typical of the Landes region. Its size makes it a lively and self-contained destination, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment—a complete vacation world of its own, where you can find everything you need right on site, among the pine trees, just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic.
The Water Park and Spa
The beating heart of Camping Le Vieux Port is its water park, one of the largest at French campgrounds. According to the official website, this water park is heated and themed (the “Pirate’s Land” universe) and features 14 water slides and 5 pools, including a wave pool, an Aquasplash area for children, an indoor pool, heated pools, and two hot tubs—enough to keep young and old alike entertained all day long. There’s also a wellness/spa area with a sauna and steam room, for adults to relax. The campground also features a large event hall (the “Arena”), billed as the largest of any French campground, for evening shows and entertainment. We are strictly limiting ourselves here to the officially described amenities; for details on the services, accommodations, and activities during your stay, as well as opening dates, please refer to the official website. Between the water park, the beach, and the pine forest, one thing is certain: at Le Vieux Port, you’ll never be bored.
| Camping Le Vieux Port | Details (official source) |
|---|---|
| Rankings | 5-star campground (Village Resort & Spa, Resasol) |
| Frame | ~35 ha of Landes pine forest · Messanges (40) |
| Beach | South Beach, about 500 m away across the dune (lifeguarded in the summer) |
| Water Park | Heated, themed: 14 slides, 5 pools, wave pool, Aquasplash |
| Also | spa (sauna, steam room), Arena, shops, restaurants |
What is there to do at the campground and around Messanges?
From the campground, you can swim and surf at Messanges South Beach (lifeguarded in the summer), enjoy the on-site water park, take a boat ride on the Courant d’Huchet (a nature reserve), swim in the calm waters of the Vieux-Boucau marine lake, cycle along the Vélodyssée through the pine forest, and head to the lakes of Léon and Soustons or the surfing spots of Hossegor and Capbreton. Here, in practical terms, are the real, tried-and-true activities for a stay in Messanges—the campground is ideally located on the southern coast of the Landes, between the ocean, the forest, and the lakes, with something to delight the whole family: thrills for some (surfing, water slides), and relaxation for others (lagoon, bike rides). The ocean in the morning, the lake or biking in the afternoon, the market and grilled food in the evening: the perfect recipe for a great summer in the Landes.
- Beaches and swimming in Messanges — South Beach (the closest, ~500 m) and Central Beach, lifeguarded during the season (July–August); ~5 km of sandy beach (unsupervised swimming outside the season: use caution—the ocean off the Landes coast is powerful)
- Surf lessons — the Messanges Surf School, on South Beach (Qualité Tourisme certified, affiliated with the FFS): lessons for all skill levels, the coast’s signature activity
- The campground's water park — 14 water slides, 5 pools, a wave pool, and Aquasplash: plenty to keep the kids busy all day long
- The Courant d'Huchet by boat — National Nature Reserve: flat-bottomed boat tours departing from the Chalet de Pichelebe (Moliets-et-Maâ), 1 hour 45 minutes or 2 hours 45 minutes, in July and August
- The Vieux-Boucau (Port d'Albret) lagoon — a calm, wave-free body of water with supervised swimming, ideal for young children, just a few minutes away
- Cycling the Vélodyssée — the greenway (EuroVelo 1) winds through the pine forest: from Messanges to Vieux-Boucau, Moliets, Léon, and Azur, car-free
- The southern coast — Hossegor and Capbreton (~20–25 min), surfing hotspots, their markets, and the Hossegor lagoon
Two places to swim: the ocean and the lake
What makes Messanges unique is the choice of water. First, there’s the ocean: the South Beach and Central Beach, with five kilometers of sand, patrolled in the summer—for swimming in the waves (with caution: the rip currents and strong surf mean you should swim only in supervised areas) and especially for surfing, the king of the coast, which you can learn at the Messanges Surf School right on the sand. And there’s the marine lake at Vieux-Boucau (Port d’Albret), just a few minutes away: a body of water with no waves or tides — it’s an artificial marine body of water, kept at a constant level by a dam —, with calm, shallow water, supervised, perfect for young children and leisurely swims. Being able to alternate, in a single day, between the thrills of the ocean and the tranquility of the lake is a rare luxury, making the southern coast of the Landes an ideal destination for families — there’s something for everyone, just five minutes from the campground.
Surfing, Biking, and the Great Outdoors
Beyond swimming, the Landes coast is a paradise for outdoor activities. Surfing, of course, is everywhere: Messanges, Vieux-Boucau, and especially Hossegor and Capbreton, twenty minutes to the south—the world capitals of surfing. Hossegor is world-renowned for its surf spots and regularly hosts competitions; the schedule varies by season. Cycling is another great pleasure: the Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1, the major Atlantic cycling route) runs through the flat pine forest, in the shade of the pine trees, and connects you to neighboring towns—Vieux-Boucau, Moliets, Léon, Azur — car-free and completely safe (ideal with children). Add to that hiking through the forest and across the dunes, fishing, paddleboarding on the lakes, and tree-top adventure courses, and it’s easy to see why the Landes is the perfect family destination for the great outdoors. The mild climate, the vast beaches and forests, and the laid-back atmosphere—everything invites you to get out and about, from morning to night—and then enjoy a barbecue under the pine trees.
| Activity | Where / When | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Beach & Swimming | South/Central Beach · lifeguarded in the summer | ~500 m from the campground · rough ocean |
| Surfing Lessons | Messanges Surf School, South Beach | All levels · Quality Tourism certification |
| Rowing Down the Huchet River in a Boat | Pichelebe Chalet (Moliets) | galope · 1 hour 45 minutes or 2 hours 45 minutes · July–August |
| Marine Lake | Vieux-Boucau (Port d'Albret) | calm water, no waves · families |
| Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1) | greenway through a pine forest | Messanges ↔ Vieux-Boucau/Léon |
| Surfing & Markets | Hossegor, Capbreton (~20 min) | surfing capitals, marine lake |
The Courant d'Huchet, the "Amazon" of the Landes
Near Messanges, the Courant d'Huchet is a national nature reserve of exotic beauty: a river that connects Lake Léon to the ocean through a jungle of gallery forests, which visitors can explore by traditional rowboat. One of the natural gems of the Landes coast.
A unique nature reserve
Just a few minutes north of Messanges, the Courant d'Huchet is an exceptional natural site: a small coastal river that connects the Lake Léon to the Atlantic Ocean, through a landscape of almost tropical lushness. Designated a national nature reserve since 1981, the stream winds its way through gallery forests — the only formation of its kind on the Aquitaine coast —, marshes, reed beds, and dunes, where alders, royal ferns, and marsh hibiscus, and where otters, herons, European pond turtles, and numerous birds live. It has been nicknamed “Little Amazon” or “the Landes Amazon” for its lush, untamed atmosphere. It is a preserved haven of biodiversity, with captivating beauty, offering a striking contrast to the nearby ocean—one of the must-see natural attractions during a stay on the southern coast of the Landes.
The Galupe Walk
The best way to explore the Courant d'Huchet is to travel upstream in a galupe — the traditional flat-bottomed boat, propelled by a pole and oars by the boatmen, just as in days gone by. These guided tours, offered by the Bateliers du Courant d’Huchet, depart from the Chalet de Pichelebe (on the RD 328, in Moliets-et-Maâ — not from the town of Léon itself): you glide silently along the water, beneath the green canopy, discovering the local flora and fauna in complete tranquility. Several options are available in July and August (tours lasting about 1 hour 45 minutes or 2 hours 45 minutes); the season generally runs from spring to fall (check schedules and make reservations with the boat operators). It’s a soothing and magical experience, very popular with families—a journey out of time, just a few minutes from the campground and the hustle and bustle of the beaches. Be sure to make a reservation in the summer, as this activity is in high demand.
The Marine Lake, the Lakes, and the Vélodyssée
Near Messanges, the Vieux-Boucau marine lake offers peaceful swimming for the whole family, the large lakes of Léon and Soustons provide water sports, and the Vélodyssée connects the entire coastline by bike, car-free. The laid-back side of the Landes coast.
The Marine Lake and the Great Lakes
The southern coast of the Landes is also home to lakes, which complement the ocean with calm, safe waters. The closest is the Vieux-Boucau marine lake (Port d’Albret), just a few minutes away: a body of water covering about sixty hectares, fed by the sea but with no waves or tides (it is an artificial marine body of water, regulated by a dam), with warm, shallow water—ideal for children’s swimming (supervised during the season), stand-up paddleboarding, and pedal boating, set amid sandy beaches and pine trees. Further north and inland, there are two large natural lakes: Lake Léon (about 340 hectares) and the Lake Soustons (about 380 hectares—not to be confused), perfect for sailing, canoeing, fishing, and strolls along the wooded shores. From the ocean for thrills, to the marine lake for little ones, to the large lakes for water sports, the region offers something for every taste—one of the great highlights of a family vacation in Messanges.
By bike, without a car
The Landes region is a paradise for cycling, thanks to its flat terrain and an exceptional network of bike paths in the shade of the pine trees. The main backbone is the Vélodyssée (the EuroVelo 1), the long-distance bike route that runs along the entire Atlantic coast: in the Messanges area, it connects Léon and Vieux-Boucau (about 15 kilometers) by passing through the pine forest, the dunes and the lakefronts, with branches leading to the beaches. From the campground, you can reach Vieux-Boucau, Moliets, Azur, or Léon entirely along greenways, safely, without ever having to drive—a major advantage for families with children, and one of the most beautiful ways to experience the Landes. Bike rentals are available on-site or at the stations, and bike trailers and child seats are available: here, biking is a true way to enjoy your vacation. You set out in the morning, have a picnic by a lake or on the beach, and return in the evening under the pine trees—all powered by your own leg strength, in the great outdoors.
Hossegor, Capbreton, and the southern coast
South of Messanges, the Landes coast stretches toward Hossegor and Capbreton, the surfing capitals, while the inland region offers Soustons, Léon, and the gentle charm of the Landes. A coastline to explore however you like.
Hossegor and Capbreton: Surfing
About 20 minutes south of Messanges, Hossegor and Capbreton form the heart of European surfing. Hossegor is world-renowned for its surf spots and regularly hosts competitions; the schedule varies by season. Its neighbor, Capbreton, adds the charm of a genuine fishing and yachting port, its iconic pier jutting out into the ocean, and a “gouf”—a dizzying underwater trench just offshore. Both resorts offer beautiful beaches, lively markets (the covered market in Capbreton, the market in Hossegor), shops, and seaside restaurants. A day trip to Hossegor-Capbreton from the campground is the perfect opportunity to experience the surf scene and the lively seaside life of the Landes region at its most vibrant—and why not round it off with a quick visit to nearby Bayonne or Biarritz?
The Hinterland and the Gentle Charm of the Landes
Beyond the coast, the Landes hinterland is well worth a visit for its peaceful charm and authenticity. Soustons, situated around its large pond, is a charming market town; Léon, on the shores of its lake and at the gateway to the Courant d’Huchet, retains its soul as a Landes village; the towns of the Marensin feature rows of traditional Landes half-timbered houses—white with red or green shutters—nestled beneath the pine trees. This is the land of gourmet markets (duck, foie gras, sand asparagus, Adour kiwi, Chalosse beef), of festivals with bandas and Landes-style bullfights (a form of bullfighting without killing, where the bullfighter challenges the cow), and a relaxed and friendly way of life. Between the lively coast and this peaceful hinterland, the Messanges region offers both sides of the Landes—the ocean and the forest, the great outdoors and the gentle pace of life—to be savored at a leisurely pace throughout your stay.
| Around Messanges | Distance | Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Vieux-Boucau / Marine Lake | ~5 km | Relaxing swim, market, Port d'Albret |
| Courant d'Huchet (Moliets) | ~10 km | nature reserve, horseback rides |
| Léon / its lake | ~12 km | natural lake, water sports, nature |
| Hossegor / Capbreton | ~25 km | surfing, markets, marine lake |
| Bayonne / Biarritz | ~50–60 km | Basque Country, chocolate, surfing |
Why Choose a Private Transfer to Your Campground?
Traveling from Bordeaux to your campground in the Landes with a private chauffeur means door-to-door service—no need to rent a car or carry your luggage: the ideal solution for a family arriving by plane or train. A stress-free start to your beach vacation.
Door-to-door, without renting a car
Many families travel to their campground in the Landes region without a car: they arrive by plane to Bordeaux-Mérignac or by train to Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, and then there’s still a two-hour trip to Messanges—with the kids, suitcases, and beach gear. Car rental is expensive over the course of a stay, especially when, once you’re settled at the campground (water park, beach 500 meters away, Vélodyssée), you hardly use it at all. The train, on the other hand, doesn’t go all the way to Messanges (there’s no active train station there) and requires complicated transfers from Dax or Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse. The private driver solves everything: you’re picked up at the train station, the airport, or your hotel in Bordeaux, and driven directly to the campground entrance on Route de la Plage Sud—luggage included—all in one go. Once there, between the beach, biking, and the shuttles, you can spend your vacation without a car — and without the cost of a weekly rental.
The perfect option for families
Private transfers are particularly well-suited for families and groups. You travel together in a comfortable vehicle (sedan or van seating up to 8 passengers), with all your luggage — strollers, child seats (upon request), suitcases, surfboards, and beach gear — without worrying about driving after a flight or a long trip. The driver knows the route and handles the trip; parents can relax, children wait quietly, and everyone arrives feeling refreshed, ready to run to the beach. It also offers peace of mind: a fixed price known in advance, a schedule coordinated with your flight or train, no parking, and no vehicle to return at the end of your stay. For both the outbound and return trips, the driver can be there on the agreed-upon day and time. In short, a private transfer transforms the journey—often the most stressful part of a family vacation—into a serene and comfortable experience, from the first to the last kilometer, all the way to the foot of the dunes.
When is the best time to stay at Camping Le Vieux Port?
The Landes coast is best enjoyed from May through September; summer is the peak season for the beach and surfing, while spring and the late season offer mild weather and tranquility under the pine trees. The perfect pace for a beach vacation.
The Seasons on the Landes Coast
The peak season for beach activities runs from June to September—and summer (July–August) is the highlight of beach life, for surfing, swimming (supervised ocean, marine lake, water park), night markets, and village festivals, all under the sun and warmth of the Southwest; it’s also the liveliest and busiest time of year, so be sure to book well in advance (camping is in high demand). Spring (May–June) and early fall (September) are a treat for those seeking mild weather: the ocean is still warm enough for swimming, the forests are cool, the bike paths are quiet, and the sites are less crowded—ideal for cycling and enjoying nature. Fall is also the season for surfing (the best waves) and food festivals. The campground is open during the season (check dates with the campground). No matter the time of year, the combination of the ocean, the forest, and the lakes makes the Landes coast a sure bet—one of France’s most beautiful vacation destinations, less than two hours from Bordeaux.
How long should I stay?
The Landes coast is ideal for stays of a week or more — the classic length of a camping vacation. A week gives you plenty of time to alternate, at a leisurely pace, between “beach” days (the ocean and sandcastles, or the saltwater lake for the little ones), “water” days (the campground’s water park), nature explorations (the Courant d’Huchet by rowboat, the lakes, biking in the forest), and day trips (Hossegor and Capbreton, Bayonne and Biarritz less than an hour away, and the markets). Everything is close by, flat, and easy to reach—especially by bike—which makes for a relaxing stay and varied days. For a short stay, focus on the essentials: the beach, the water park, and a boat ride on the Courant d’Huchet. With a driver for the round trip from Bordeaux and bikes available on-site, you can fully enjoy the coast—without ever having to worry about driving or parking, just as a vacation should be.
Plan Your Stay at Camping Le Vieux Port
For Le Vieux Port, consider Messanges, about 154 km from Bordeaux, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 50 minutes and prices starting at 264 €. Check the opening dates and services on the official campground website before coordinating your arrival, children, and luggage. This will make your arrival at the campground go more smoothly.
A few tips to help you plan your stay at Camping Le Vieux Port and enjoy the Landes coast. Everything you need to plan a stress-free family beach vacation.
On-site and without a car
Once you've settled in at the campground, it's perfectly possible to get around without a car: the beach is 500 meters away across the dune, the water park, shops, restaurants, and entertainment are all on-site, and the Vélodyssée allows you to safely bike to neighboring resorts, lakes, and beaches. Bicycle rentals (including trailers and child seats) are available on-site or nearby, along with summer shuttle services: here, a bike-centric vacation is a true way to enjoy your time off, perfect for families. Be sure to pack your beach gear and swimwear, sunscreen (the sun in the Landes is intense), something to protect you from the ocean breeze, and—for swimmers—caution regarding waves and currents (swim only in supervised areas). Be sure to book early in the summer (camping, surf lessons, a trip on the Courant d’Huchet). And always check with the campground for opening dates, amenities, and activities during your stay.
Coming Here and Leaving
The campground is not accessible by train (the Messanges train station is closed; the nearest station, Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse, is about seventeen kilometers away, and the nearest TGV station is Dax, about thirty minutes away): a vehicle is required to get here from Bordeaux. The simplest and most comfortable option, especially for a family arriving by plane or by train to Bordeaux, is a private driver offering door-to-door service: you’ll be driven directly from Bordeaux to the campground entrance on Route de la Plage Sud, with all your luggage, without having to rent a car or worry about transfers. On the return trip, the driver can pick you up at the campground on the day and at the time of your train or flight. This is the best way to enjoy a beach vacation: a stress-free trip there and back, and, in between, a vacation free from the hassle of driving—just the ocean, the pine forest, and the fresh air.
Getting to the campground from Bordeaux
The Bordeaux–Le Vieux Port route covers approximately 154 km to Messanges. The estimated travel time is 1 hour and 50 minutes, and the price, starting at €264, is based on the amount displayed by the booking engine. For door-to-door service, use the booking page. Please specify the number of passengers, luggage, and your desired departure time.
Camping Le Vieux Port in Messanges is located about 154 km from Bordeaux—a drive of about 1 hour and 50 minutes—via the A63 highway toward Bayonne, Exit 11 (Magescq), then along the coastal roads (Soustons, Vieux-Boucau) to Messanges. It’s one of the most accessible seaside getaways from Bordeaux: a direct highway, followed by a final stretch through the pine forest. Be wary of overly optimistic estimates (the actual trip takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours, not 1 hour 30 minutes). The campground does not have a train station (the one in Messanges is no longer in use): the nearest stations are Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse (~17 km) and Dax (TGV station, ~30 min), from which you’ll need a car anyway. For a family arriving in Bordeaux by plane or train, or for a stay without a rental car, a door-to-door transfer with a driver is the simplest solution—you’ll arrive right at the campground entrance, luggage included.
Rent a car or book a driver?
To get to Le Vieux Port campground and enjoy the Landes coast, using a private chauffeur service in Bordeaux offers true peace of mind: a direct trip from Bordeaux (train station, airport, or hotel), door-to-door, with no transfers or driving required, and all your vacation luggage taken care of. This is especially valuable for families — no need to rent a car for the entire duration of your stay, no need to install child seats yourself (we can provide them upon request), and no fatigue from driving after a flight. We offer this trip at a fixed price quoted in advance: expect to pay approximately 302 € for the one-way trip, in a Mercedes sedan or a van seating up to 8 passengers, with a professional driver. The price, set at the time of booking, does not change: it is not affected by summer traffic (which is often heavy along the coast) or the season, unlike a taxi meter—and it is often more cost-effective for a group than renting a car for the entire week.
This is the perfect option for starting or ending a family vacation, a car-free camping trip, or a trip coordinated with a flight or train. You can travel alone, as a couple, or in a small group of up to 8 people—with your luggage, stroller, surfboards, and beach gear—and be dropped off right at the campground entrance. In practice, booking is quick and easy: you specify the pickup location in Bordeaux (airport, Saint-Jean train station, hotel), the destination (Le Vieux Port campground in Messanges), the date, the time—ideally timed to match your flight or train schedule—and the number of passengers, and you’ll receive a fixed-price quote in writing. On the day of the trip, the driver picks up the passengers at the agreed-upon location and takes them directly to the campground, without any detours—so that your beach vacation truly begins the moment you get in the car.
| Route | Distance | Duration | Landmark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux → campground (Messanges) | ~154 km | ~1 hour 50 minutes | Starting at ~264 € for a private chauffeur service |
| Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport → campground | ~160 km | ~1 hour 55 minutes | pickup at the terminal |
| Camping → Vieux-Boucau (lagoon) | ~5 km | ~10 min | relaxing swim, market |
| Camping → Hossegor / Capbreton | ~25 km | ~25 min | surfing, markets, marine lake |
Whether you’re coming for the ocean and surfing, the water park and the beach, the Courant d’Huchet and the lakes, or for biking in the forest and the gentle charm of the Landes, Camping Le Vieux Port is a wonderful vacation base on the Atlantic coast—and the chauffeured transfer is the easiest way to get there from Bordeaux with your family, hassle-free.
Whether you’re heading out on vacation, need a ride coordinated with your flight or train, or are staying at a campground without a car, booking a chauffeured transfer guarantees a comfortable and punctual ride — book a driver from Bordeaux to Le Vieux Port campground or explore all our destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Camping Le Vieux Port located?
Camping Le Vieux Port is located in Messanges, in the Landes department (40660), on the Atlantic coast (the Côte d'Argent), between Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains to the south and Moliets-et-Maâ to the north. Its official name is “Camping Village Resort & Spa Le Vieux Port”; it is a 5-star campground operated by the Resasol group. The address is 850 Route de la Plage Sud, 40660 Messanges. It is a vast 35-hectare campground nestled in a pine forest, about 500 meters from the ocean (access to the beach is via a path across the dune). From Bordeaux, it’s about 154 km and a 1-hour-50-minute drive via the A63. For a family arriving in Bordeaux by plane or train, a private door-to-door transfer is the simplest option—you’ll be dropped off right at the campground entrance, with all your luggage.
How far is it from Bordeaux to Camping Le Vieux Port (Messanges)?
About 154 km by road, or about 1 hour and 50 minutes (allow about 2 hours in the summer due to coastal traffic), via the A63 highway toward Bayonne, Exit 11 (Magescq), then take the coastal roads via Soustons and Vieux-Boucau. Be wary of overly optimistic estimates: the actual trip takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours, not 1 hour and 30 minutes. For an executive car service, the fare is fixed and provided in advance, starting at around €302 for a one-way trip (sedan or van, door-to-door price). The campground does not have an active train station (the one in Messanges is decommissioned): the nearest stations are Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse (~17 km) and Dax (TGV station, ~30 min). A private, door-to-door transfer eliminates the need for any transfers.
What facilities does Camping Le Vieux Port offer?
According to its official website, it is a 5-star campground spanning 35 hectares in a pine forest in Messanges, one of the largest in France. Its massive, heated, themed water park features 14 slides and 5 pools, including a wave pool, an Aquasplash area for children, an indoor pool, heated pools, and two hot tubs. In addition, there is a wellness area (spa with sauna and steam room), a large event hall (the “Arena”), shops, restaurants, and entertainment, as well as direct access to the beach (Plage Sud, about 500 m away across the dune, lifeguarded in summer). Accommodations include mobile homes, cottages, and campsites. For detailed information on facilities, accommodations, and activities, as well as opening dates, please visit the campground’s official website.
Does Camping Le Vieux Port have direct access to the beach?
Yes, but let’s clarify what that means in practice: Messanges’ South Beach is about 500 meters from the campground, accessible via a safe path that crosses the dune—a three-minute bike ride or about a ten-minute walk. So it’s not “right on the water” in the strict sense, but it does offer direct and quick access to the beach on foot or by bike, without having to take the car. During the high season (July–August), this beach on the Landes coast is lifeguard-patrolled. This is one of the major advantages of Le Vieux Port: you can walk to the ocean from your accommodations, and once there, you can enjoy the campground’s large water park. Please note: During the off-season, swimming is unsupervised, and the Landes coast, with its waves and rip currents, requires caution.
What is there to do near Camping Le Vieux Port?
Plenty. On-site and in Messanges: the beach and swimming (South and Central Beaches, lifeguarded in the summer), surf lessons (Messanges Surf School), and the campground’s water park. Nearby: the Vieux-Boucau marine lake (calm swimming with no waves, ideal for children), the Courant d’Huchet (nature reserve, boat tours departing from Moliets), and the Vélodyssée bike path for exploring the pine forest by bike. A little further away (~20–25 min), Hossegor and Capbreton—surfing capitals—with their markets and the Hossegor marine lake; and the large lakes of Léon and Soustons for water sports. Less than an hour away are Bayonne and Biarritz. Between the ocean, the forest, and the lakes, there’s something to delight the whole family—often by bike and without a car.
Is Camping Le Vieux Port family-friendly?
Yes, it’s a 5-star campground designed for families. The large water park (14 slides, 5 pools, a wave pool, and the Aquasplash area for kids) and easy access to the beach are a hit with the kids; the campground offers activities and clubs (check availability depending on the season). The region itself is ideal for families: the Vieux-Boucau marine lake for peaceful swimming with toddlers, the Vélodyssée for safe cycling through the forest, boat trips on the Courant d’Huchet, and surf lessons for older kids. For your arrival, a chauffeur service from Bordeaux makes everything simple: you travel together, with your luggage and, upon request, child seats, without the hassle of driving—your beach vacation begins the moment you get in the car.
Can you surf in Messanges?
Yes—surfing is the signature activity of the Landes coast. Messanges South Beach is home to the Messanges Surf School (certified by Qualité Tourisme and affiliated with the French Surfing Federation), which offers lessons for all skill levels—for both children and adults—right on the sand, just a few hundred meters from the campground. The waves in the Landes region, which are consistent and powerful, are renowned worldwide. Hossegor is world-famous for its surf spots and regularly hosts competitions; the schedule varies by season. Please be careful, however: the ocean in the Landes region is powerful (waves, currents, rip currents), so you must swim in supervised areas during the season and follow safety guidelines, especially when with children.
What is the Courant d'Huchet?
It is one of the natural gems of the Landes coast, just a few minutes from Messanges: a national nature reserve (since 1981) where a small coastal river connects Lake Léon to the Atlantic Ocean, winding through a landscape of almost tropical lushness—gallery forests (unique to the Aquitaine coast), marshes, and dunes, home to otters, herons, and European pond turtles. It has been nicknamed the Landes’ “Little Amazon.” The best way to explore it is by taking a ride in a galupe, the traditional flat-bottomed boat poled along by boatmen: guided tours depart from the Chalet de Pichelebe, on the RD 328 in Moliets-et-Maâ (not from Léon itself), in July and August (tours lasting about 1 hour 45 minutes or 2 hours 45 minutes). A soothing and magical experience, very popular with families—be sure to make a reservation in the summer.
When is the best time to stay at Camping Le Vieux Port?
The Landes coast is best enjoyed from May through September. Summer (July–August) is peak season for the beach, surfing, and swimming (supervised ocean, marine lake, water park), and village festivals, all under the southwestern sun—it’s also the liveliest and busiest time of year, so be sure to book well in advance. Spring (May–June) and early fall (September) offer mild weather and tranquility: the ocean is still warm enough for swimming, the forest is cool, the bike paths are quiet, and the sites are less crowded—ideal for biking and enjoying nature. Fall is also the season for the best waves (surfing). The campground is open during the season—check the dates with the campground. No matter the time of year, the ocean, the forest, and the lakes make the Landes coast a sure bet, less than two hours from Bordeaux.
Is it possible to stay at Camping Le Vieux Port without a car?
Yes, that's great. The campground is designed like a vacation village where you can find almost everything on-site: a water park, shops, restaurants, entertainment, and the beach just 500 meters away across the dunes (on foot or by bike). As for the surrounding area, the Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1) lets you cycle safely and car-free to Vieux-Boucau and its marine lake, Moliets, Léon, and Azur—bike rentals, bike trailers, and child seats are available on-site or nearby, plus summer shuttle services. To get here from Bordeaux without a car, the best option is a door-to-door service: you’ll be picked up at the airport, train station, or hotel and dropped off directly at the campground entrance with all your luggage; on the way back, the driver will come to pick you up. This saves you the cost and hassle of renting a car for the entire week.
Can I book a chauffeured transfer from Bordeaux to Le Vieux Port campground?
Yes. We offer transfers from Bordeaux to Camping Le Vieux Port in Messanges (approximately 154 km, about 1 hour and 50 minutes via the A63) at a fixed rate starting at approximately 302 € one way, in a Mercedes sedan or a van seating up to 8 passengers, with a professional driver. The trip is direct, door-to-door: pickup at the airport, Saint-Jean train station, or your hotel in Bordeaux, and drop-off directly at the campground entrance on Route de la Plage Sud, with all your luggage (suitcases, stroller, surfboards). Ideal for families (child seats available upon request; no need to rent a car for the week), with a schedule tailored to your flight or train, both on the way there and back. The fixed-price quote is provided and confirmed in writing before departure, with no surprise charges—a real advantage given the summer traffic along the coast. For groups, it’s often more cost-effective than renting a car.
Further Reading
- Camping in the Périgord Noir: see the Guide to Camping Le Moulin de Paulhiac (Daglan, Dordogne)
- The surfing capital: see the Biarritz Guide (surfing, the Rocher de la Vierge, the Basque Country)
- Chocolate and Festivals: see the Bayonne Guide (chocolate, ham, festivals)
- The Pays d'Orthe: see the Orthevielle Guide (the Landes, the gaves)
- Plan your trip: book a chauffeured transfer from Bordeaux to Le Vieux Port campground or explore all our destinations
Sources and References
- Camping Le Vieux Port — official website — 5★, Messanges, 35 ha of pine forest, water park (14 slides, 5 pools), beach access 500 m away
- Wikipedia — Messanges (Landes) — Marensin, Côte d'Argent, two lifeguard-patrolled beaches, a decommissioned train station
- Boatmen of the Courant d'Huchet — nature reserve since 1981, Chalet de Pichelebe boat dock (Moliets), galupes
- Landes Atlantique Sud — tourist office — Vieux-Boucau lagoon, beaches, surfing, markets, Vélodyssée
- The Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1) — coastal greenway, Léon–Vieux-Boucau through the pine forest
- Wikipedia — A63 Highway — Bordeaux–Bayonne, Exit 11 Magescq toward Messanges/Soustons
Article updated in July 2026.
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Heading to the Landes Coast
Direct transfer from Bordeaux (~1 hour 50 minutes) to your campground in Messanges—from the airport, train station, or hotel right to the campground entrance, including luggage. Fixed, written quote—no unexpected meter charges.