Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park
About
The Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park is located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region of southwestern France, spanning the Gironde and Landes departments. It encompasses a large portion of the Landes de Gascogne pine forest, stretching from the Bassin d’Arcachon to the southern Grande Lande. This diverse ecological territory is a hub for biodiversity, innovation, sustainable development, and governance. It is shaped by three rivers—the Leyre, Ciron, and Midouze—and features a variety of landscapes such as wetlands, deltas, lagoons, moors, dunes, beaches, and gallery forests. These areas are home to valuable flora and fauna, some of which are protected by various environmental designations like Natura 2000 and the Ramsar Convention.
In its efforts to protect the site’s core, the Reserve has assisted municipalities in addressing light pollution by upgrading public lighting and considering the importance of dark areas for nocturnal biodiversity. In 2019, a comprehensive study led to the development of a strategic plan to sustainably reduce light pollution in the region. Concurrently, 12 municipalities received national awards, and the Park organized numerous awareness campaigns, including astronomy evenings, nighttime events, and educational projects.
The initiative includes comprehensive monitoring of night sky quality using various photographic techniques, such as panoramic imagery, to observe light domes on the horizon at different locations. Maps have been created to visualize the baseline results. Since 2019, residents have actively participated in monitoring night sky quality through the Star Watchers program.
This certification will be a key attraction for eco- and astrotourism in the region and represents a shared commitment to preserving a unique natural heritage, benefiting the local community and nocturnal species.
Designated
2025
Category
International Dark Sky Reserve
Address
Maison du Parc
33 route de Bayonne
33830 Belin-Béliet,
France
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Land area
4763 sq km
Documents
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Announcement
Annual Reports
Weather
Click here to find ideal environmental conditions for enjoying dark skies near Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park (44.4960, -0.7898).
