Several themes come together in Uza, each of which can shape a trip in a different way: the history of iron and steelworking, remembrance of the First World War, and a cycle path through pine forests. There is also the Church of Saint-Louis and Lac d’Uza, considered a peaceful place for a shady break. Visitors to Uza can therefore focus on industrial heritage, local history, cycling, or a quiet rest.
Blacksmithing History and Hydropower
The Uza forges were founded in 1759 by Henri-Hercule-Joseph de Lur Saluces to develop a craft activity in the iron and steel industry. The operation included hammers and bellows, powered by the Vignacq stream via a dam. This means the industrial history can be understood not only through the purpose of the enterprise but also through its energy source: water powered the equipment used for forging.
The forge complex has been classified as a historic monument since May 3, 2004. The two dates mark distinct periods: 1759 represents the start of the craft activity, and 2004 the classification of the complex as a historic monument.
War Memorial and Church of Saint-Louis
The First World War memorial was erected in 1926 by Bertrand de Lur-Saluces on the shore of Lac de la Forge. It takes the form of a sculpted lantern of the dead, topped by a statue of Saint Louis. The memorial thus provides a separate historical focus alongside the industrial history: here, remembrance of the war is central, while the forges tell the story of the area’s earlier ironworking.
The Church of Saint-Louis adds another chapter to the history of the area. It was built to plans by Bordeaux architect Louis Michel Garros and was intended to provide the workers at the local forges with a place to pray. A wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, known as Notre-Dame de Contis, was transferred to the church around 1850. By prefectural decree dated July 18, 2003, the church was listed as a historic monument.
For practical planning, the current access restriction is important: the church is currently closed to the public. A temporary closure was ordered because stones were falling from the façade. Check access in advance if visiting the church is important to your plans; for now, do not plan an interior visit.
Cycle Path, Lake and Agriculture
For an outdoor activity, the Piste cyclable du Vignac cycle path leads from Uza through pine forests toward Contis-Plage or Cap de l’Homy. These two destinations offer a choice of focus for the outing. Those who prefer a more leisurely day will find a contrast at Lac d’Uza: the lake is a peaceful place to linger and take a shady break. The cycle route and the lake therefore suit different needs—being on the move or deliberately making time to rest.
Another local focus is cultivation at Domaine d’Uza. Organic asparagus is currently grown there on sandy soils. Agricultural details may change: white or purple asparagus is harvested without chemical inputs across an area of more than 18 hectares. This agricultural perspective complements the architectural and industrial history with current local production.
Discover more destinations: Mées, Hinx, Orx, Biarrotte, Pontenx-Les-Forges, Contis-Plage, Saint-Gor, Saint-Cricq-Chalosse.
For the regional travel overview: Landes.
