Darricau
A natural history
Enjoy one of the most beautiful estates in the Landes and its exceptional reserve of space and nature. Ideally situated on the edge of Lake Aureilhan, nine kilometres from the beaches of Mimizan, the Darricau estate is an old Landes estate built in the 18th century. Fifty hectares of wooded parkland, gardens and horse meadows surround the manor house of one of Napoleon’s generals. Surrounding the manor house are a number of former farm buildings that have been converted into modern, comfortable accommodation.
Fifty hectares of Natura 2000 classified forest
As well as a flora made up of dozens of different species of trees and mushrooms, the estate is home to many wild animals, which you may be lucky enough to spot on your walks. Hunting is prohibited, so take your camera instead.
The gites
Our gîtes, which are listed historic buildings that have been completely renovated, offer a warm, traditional welcome with all the modern comforts you would expect.
Each gîte has a large terrace or garden where you can enjoy the peace and greenery of the property.
Pets are welcome.
La Vigne
- 2 to 4 people in semi-detached house
- A 60m2 ground floor flat
- 1 bedroom
- 1 living room with 2-seater sofa bed
- 1 bathroom
- 1 kitchen / dining room
2 west/east terraces with uninterrupted views of the forest
Le Grenier
- 6 people
- A 90 m2 flat on the first floor
- 1 parents’ bedroom
- 1 bedroom with double bed and 2 bunk beds
- Reversible air conditioning
- A 26m2 terrace
L’Atelier
- 6 people
- A ground floor flat of 140m2
- 2 parents’ bedrooms
- 1 children’s bedroom (2 beds and bathroom)
- 2 outdoor terraces, one of which is 52m2
- Reversible air conditioning
Wheelchair accessible
La Serre
12 people – 1 flat + 2 adjoining bedrooms
- A single-storey flat 100 m2
- 2 parents’ bedrooms
- 1 children’s bedroom with 4 beds (2x 2 bunk beds)
- 2 bathrooms
- 1 living room
- 1 dining room
- An apartment
- 2 double bedrooms
- 1 bathroom
- A 180 m² garden
- Wheelchair accessible
Activities galore
Explore the Landes forest on horseback or by bike, thanks to an extensive network of bike paths and quiet roads. Soak up the sun and sea on the magnificent Atlantic beaches, such as Mimizan or the wild Lespecier beach in Bias. From Darricau, walk along the lake in summer to the colorful symphony that is the flower-lined promenade of Mimizan, and on to the fairytale castle where the Duke of Westminster welcomed Coco Chanel, Charlie Chaplin, and Salvador Dali. In autumn, come and pick the porcini mushrooms that abound in our park, under the russet ferns, and enjoy the peace of the late season.
Swimming, windsurfing, paddle-boarding, canoeing, rowing, pedal-boating – the Lac d’Aureilhan is ideal for safe family activities …
At the end of Darricau Park
Swimming, surfing, kitesurfing, beach volleyball, fishing, sunbathing or sandcastles, the dozens of kilometres of beach …
Mimizan beaches 8 km away, Dune du Pilat 67 km away
Horse or pony rides in the Darricau park, walks to the ocean, or riding lessons.
Lous Chivaus, at the entrance to Darricau Park
Mountain biking in the forest or visiting the surrounding area, dozens of kilometres of cycle paths allow you to criss-cross the Pays de Born all the way to the ocean.
The Mimizan aerodrome offers parachute jumps (4200m), microlight flights to the Dune du Pilat and flying lessons.
4000m, Mimizan aerodrome, 10 minutes from Darricau
The largest karting circuit in southwestern France (1,400 meters), technical and fast, run by a very friendly team. Remember to make a reservation.
Kart Landes 40, in Escources, a 25-minute drive away.
This municipal club offers 9 holes between pine trees and dunes, over 2835 metres of Par 36.
Golf Club de Mimizan, 8 minutes from Darricau
A very pleasant forest acrobatic park, with different courses of varying levels, for all the family.
Landes-aventures, 8 minutes from Darricau
Situated on the shores of Lake Aureilhan, the Mimizan Flower Promenade is an enchantment of colour and fragrance in all seasons.
Promenade fleurie de Mimizan, 10 minutes walking from Darricau.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Domaine Darricau located?
Domaine Darricau is in Aureilhan, in the Landes region of south-west France, on the shore of Lake Aureilhan, within 50 hectares of forest and meadow. It is 3 km from the centre of Mimizan and 8 km from the Atlantic beaches.
How long is the drive from major cities?
About 1h20 from Bordeaux, 1h20 from Biarritz or Hossegor, 1 hour from the Dune du Pilat and 35 minutes from Biscarrosse.
Is a car necessary?
A car is recommended to make the most of the area (beaches, activities, shops beyond Mimizan). The shops of Mimizan and a bakery remain reachable on foot or a few minutes' drive away.
How many gîtes are available to rent?
The estate has 4 independent gîtes: La Vigne (2 to 4 guests), Le Grenier (6 guests), L'Atelier (6 guests) and La Serre (12 guests). L'Atelier and Le Grenier are adjoining and can be rented together for up to 12 guests.
How do I book?
Booking is made directly online on the website. It becomes effective once all or part of the rental amount is paid.
Why book direct rather than through a platform?
Booking directly on the website guarantees the best rate, with no platform commission, and direct contact with your hosts.
Is there a security deposit?
Yes. A security deposit, the amount of which is stated in the contract, is requested on arrival. It is returned within one month of departure at the latest, less any justified repair costs.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-out is before 10:30 am, after an inventory check. Check-in time is agreed with your hosts. An inventory is carried out on arrival and departure with the owner or their representative.
Are cleaning and linen included?
Yes. In every gîte, cleaning is included and bed linen and towels are provided.
What is the cancellation policy?
For cancellations more than 30 days before arrival, a 30% deposit is retained (70% refunded). Less than 30 days before arrival, no refund is possible. Any cancellation must be sent by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are welcome in every gîte, dogs in particular. Please state the type and number of animals when booking. Pets must not roam the estate alone or climb on beds and sofas.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in the gîtes. Coverage may be weaker in rooms far from the main building.
Are the kitchens equipped?
Yes. Each gîte has a fully equipped kitchen: dishwasher, fan oven, microwave, fridge/freezer, coffee makers, kettle and toaster.
Is there a terrace or garden?
Yes. Each gîte has a large terrace or garden, most fitted with a gas plancha and sun loungers.
Are any gîtes wheelchair accessible?
Yes. La Serre is single-storey and has bathrooms fitted for wheelchair users (grab bars, shower seat, raised toilet, walk-in shower). Contact your hosts to check it suits your needs.
What activities are there around the estate?
Lake Aureilhan (swimming, paddle, canoe, sailing) is very close, the Mimizan beaches are 8 km away (surf, fishing), with a riding centre at the park entrance, cycle paths, Mimizan golf course, a treetop adventure park and an airfield a few minutes away.
Are the lake and beaches far?
Lake Aureilhan is reachable on foot (about 10 min through the forest). The Mimizan beaches are 8 km away, a 10-15 minute drive or by cycle path.
