Dax is one of France's top spa towns, with its hot springs and mud baths, and has held this position since Roman times, when, according to legend, the Emperor Augustus brought his daughter Julia here for a rheumatic cure; such eminent custom assured Dax's reputation.
Whether the legend is true or not, there has been a settlement there since long before the Romans got there, a lake village built on stilts, but as recent archaeological discoveries have proved, the Romans developed it into a city. Along with much of Aquitaine it belonged to Britain between the 12th and 15th centuries, and has grown in to an important commercial and agricultural centre - resin from the pine forest of the Landes is one significant product.
Dax lies on the border between the Chalosse area and the pine forests of the Landes and has played a pivotal role in the turbulent history of France. For some 15 centuries the town was a fortress until the last century, when most of the 1,465m fortified wall and a strong castle, thought to have been built by Richard the Lionheart, were demolished to make way for expansion in more peaceful times.
Now riverside walks along the banks of the Adour, colourful public gardens and Dax's long history make this city a popular stop on the tourist trail.
The famous mudbaths of Dax come from mixing the alluvial deposits of the Adour with the hot spring water. Water from the hot spring in the centre emerges into the fountain at a constant 64 degrees Centigrade (147 degrees Farenheit)
Dax's cathedral was started in the 17th century in the classical style to replace a Gothic church which had collapsed. All that remains of the latter is a doorway, incorporated into the cathedral. The cathedral itself took 275 years to build!
The birthplace of a remarkable French saint who did much in the 17th century to help the poor and the sick, a virtual fore-runner of modern social services
The hotel Caliceo is directly connected with the spa. Book online now Price: From €100 No of rooms: 157 Cards: Visa/Mcard Child rate: No Garden Ratings:
Le Petit Pedebosq is situated south-east of Dax in the beautiful and quiet countryside of Chalosse. This early 18th century farmhouse, now fully restored has a private swimming-pool. Book online now Price: From €63 No of rooms: 4 Cards: Child rate: Yes Garden Ratings:
Kyriad, come and discover new horizons. Kyriad aims to offer you the ideal balance between guarenteed quality and charming diversity. Book online now Price: From €62 No of rooms: 42 Cards: Visa/Mcard Switch Child rate: No Ratings:
Campanile Saint-Paul-les-Dax is ideally situated close to the city centre of Dax. Part of the Campanile group, our hotel has a unique environment making you feel relaxed and peaceful. Book online now Price: From €39 No of rooms: 46 Cards: Visa/Mcard Switch Child rate: Yes Ratings:
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The hotel Caliceo is directly connected with the spa. 
Le Petit Pedebosq is situated south-east of Dax in the beautiful and quiet countryside of Chalosse. This early 18th century farmhouse, now fully restored has a private swimming-pool.
Kyriad, come and discover new horizons. Kyriad aims to offer you the ideal balance between guarenteed quality and charming diversity.
Campanile Saint-Paul-les-Dax is ideally situated close to the city centre of Dax. Part of the Campanile group, our hotel has a unique environment making you feel relaxed and peaceful.