Hossegor Spirit {Look Around}

The Quicksilver Pro France taking place in the South West of France was just an excuse to meet up with old friends in a new place for us all: we all moved out of the Paris area to the Gironde department within the last month or so. It was a coincidence and a very happy one too. Amid all things new, good friends deciding to move in the same area as us is a blessing, a sign from above, the promise of strong feelings, invigorating encounters and never ending exchanges in a new environment. The best of both worlds? 

Soorts-Hossegor - commonly referred to as Hossegor - in the Landes area, just north of Biarritz, turned out to be our meeting point. The small commune is located between sandy beaches, clean waves, clear skies, green carpets of ferns and towering pine trees where once lay the marshlands. Nature at its best was sending positively vibrant vibes to every pore of our bodies. The energy was palpable as the surf competition drew aficionados from all over the world; we heard Spanish, Swedish, Italian, English and Dutch during our stroll in the lively streets and our leisurely beach retreat with the kids. Laid back surf vibes seemed to permeate the behaviour of drivers and pedestrians alike: although the contest clearly drew zillions of people, there was no tension in the air, no fights for parking spots, no stress around the packed restaurant tables despite the erratic service of waiters. 

Between the brute force of the ocean and the quiet surrounding the salt-water lake ideal for SUP lovers, there is a spot for everyone. Locals may complain that during the competition too many people take over the world-renown spot, with ensuing noise, and some reckless behaviors, but it is clear that businesses thrive and that competitions as such are the driving energy behind the scenes. Local nature calls for sheer sports, efforts and awe. What makes Hossegor so appealing and unique is the fact that human settlements and nature are intertwined in what appears to be beneficial cooperation: the harmonious architecture of the houses is complimented by pine and cork trees, the forest is clearly well tended, the dunes are well preserved and every local is proud of the beauty of this exceptional place. 

During our wander, we stopped at a lovely bar I’d like to share a few details about since it fits so perfectly into the Hossegor spirit - and despite the fact that it is now closed until the next spring/summer season: the Mango Tree is a juice and smoothie bar infused with a nomadic spirit also serving deliciously healthy dishes from morning til evening. This is one of the very few places in France where I have found açai based drinks… Two lovely sisters are busy behind the counter and serve vegetarian bowls and cold chai tea lattes among other delicious home-made dishes and beverages. They grow their own herbs and bake their own bread. A dream come true, on a peaceful spot: you can sit down by the pier or on the beach, literally, while admiring the SUP riders passing by and the exoticism of the surroundings under the benevolent eye of the Hossegor spirit.

Now, if you would excuse, me, I am going to take the plunge and daydream about the glorious day spent in Hossegor… You are welcome to join me, dear friends…

Credits: TheDaydreamer