Car hire in Dax positions you in the heart of the Landes region, France’s thermal spa capital. This town, famous for its hot springs and thermal treatments, offers access to the vast Landes forest, Atlantic beaches, and Basque Country. The combination of wellness, nature, and coast makes Dax a versatile base.
Getting Around Dax by Car
Dax’s centre is walkable, with the thermal baths, bullring, and old town within 15 minutes of each other. Street parking is affordable (€1 per hour). The A63 connects to Bayonne (30 minutes south), Bordeaux (90 minutes north), and the Atlantic coast. The D roads head inland through the Landes forest.
Driving in the Landes is easy — flat terrain, straight roads through pine forests. The region is less touristy than the Basque Country but offers easy access to both Atlantic beaches and Spanish border.
Dax is ideally positioned between Bordeaux, Bayonne, and the Pyrenees — a central base for southwestern France.
Day Trips from Dax
Thermal treatments — Dax has 16 thermal establishments. The waters are reputed for rheumatism and skin conditions. Even without treatment, the atmosphere is relaxing.
Landes forest, surrounding Dax, is the largest maritime pine forest in Europe. Drive through endless pine avenues. The D roads are straight and fast — watch for logging trucks.
Hossegor and Capbreton, 40 minutes west, are world-famous surf beaches. Hossegor hosts international competitions. The beaches are sandy, the waves excellent. Continue to Capbreton for the fishing port.
Bayonne and Biarritz, 30-40 minutes south, offer Basque culture and glamour. Bayonne has the old town and chocolate; Biarritz has surf and casinos. The Atlantic coast is less crowded than the Mediterranean.
Pau, 40 minutes southeast, has a château and views of the Pyrenees. The Boulevard des Pyrénées offers mountain views on clear days.
Driving Tips for France
Landes driving: The pine forests mean fast, straight roads. Watch for logging trucks and wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer are common.
Coastal traffic: The beaches at Hossegor and Capbreton fill in July and August. Arrive before 10am for parking. The D roads from Dax are faster than the coast road in summer.
Basque Country: The A63 to Spain is toll-free in parts. The Spanish border is 60 minutes south. Check your rental contract for cross-border permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dax worth visiting beyond the thermal baths?
For surfers, yes — it’s close to Hossegor, one of Europe’s best surf spots. For nature lovers, the Landes forest is unique. For spa-goers, Dax is France’s thermal capital. The town is quieter than Bayonne but well-positioned.
How far are the beaches?
40 minutes to Hossegor/Capbreton. The drive passes through pine forest, then opens to dunes and beaches. Allow extra time in July and August.
Can I combine Dax with the Pyrenees?
Yes — Pau is 40 minutes away. The mountains are visible from Dax on clear days. For serious hiking, drive to Lourdes (60 minutes) or further into the mountains.