Lacanau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lacanau
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Country | France | |
Region | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | |
Department | Gironde | |
Area
1
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214.02 km2 (82.63 sq mi) | |
Population
(2012)
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4,493 | |
• Density | 20.9934/km2 (54.373/sq mi) | |
Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
• Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
INSEE/Postal code |
33214 /33680
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Elevation | 0–66 m (0–217 ft) (avg. 18 m or 59 ft) |
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1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. |
Lacanau is a charming town located on the Atlantic Ocean coast in southwestern France. It is well-known for its beautiful beaches and vast pine forests. This area is a popular spot for both tourists and locals who love nature and outdoor activities.
Contents
Discovering Lacanau's Location
Lacanau is part of the Gironde department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. It sits right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. This special location means it has both a long coastline and large inland lakes.
Ocean and Beaches
The town is famous for its long sandy beaches. These beaches stretch for many kilometers along the coast. They are perfect for relaxing, building sandcastles, or just enjoying the sun.
Lakes and Forests
Beyond the ocean, Lacanau is surrounded by a huge pine forest. This forest is part of the Landes Forest, one of the largest planted forests in Europe. There are also big freshwater lakes nearby, like Lacanau Lake. These lakes offer different kinds of water fun.
Fun Things to Do in Lacanau
Lacanau is a great place for outdoor adventures. There are many activities for young people to enjoy. The town is especially famous for its water sports.
Surfing and Water Sports
Lacanau's ocean waves make it a top spot for surfing. Many surf schools offer lessons for beginners. You can also try other water sports like paddleboarding, kitesurfing, or bodyboarding. The annual Lacanau Pro surfing competition attracts surfers from all over the world.
Cycling and Nature Trails
The pine forests around Lacanau have many safe cycling paths. You can rent a bike and explore the beautiful nature. These trails are flat and easy, perfect for a family ride. You can cycle through the forest or along the lake shores.
Lake Activities
Lacanau Lake is calmer than the ocean. It is ideal for swimming, sailing, and kayaking. You can also try windsurfing on the lake. The lake has sandy beaches too, which are great for a quieter day out.
Lacanau's Community Life
Lacanau is home to about 4,500 people. This number grows a lot during the summer months when tourists arrive. The town has a friendly atmosphere and offers various shops and restaurants.
Local Events
Throughout the year, Lacanau hosts different events. The surfing competition is a big one, but there are also local markets and music festivals. These events bring the community together and entertain visitors.
Protecting Nature
The people of Lacanau care a lot about their natural environment. Efforts are made to protect the beaches, forests, and lakes. This helps keep the area beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
See also
In Spanish: Lacanau para niños