La Teste-de-Buch, the jewel in the Arcachon Bassin crown
Well known for its majestic Dune du Pilat, La Teste-de-Buch offers a wide range of activities in all seasons.
Here, you will find all facets of Bassin in the same city. Holidays promises to be lively!
La Teste de Buch has several neighborhoods: Pyla sur Mer, Cazaux and the town center of La Teste with its oyster port and its large market.
Climbing the highest sand dune in Europe: the Dune du Pilat
Ascending the Dune du PilatPilat is like obtaining a ticket to admire one of the most beautiful views in France! Be sure to venture beyond the stairs. By observing the Dune, one may not realize that it is a natural monument in constant motion and an open-air history book. From 110 meters high, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the Banc d'Arguin, the forest and in Cap Ferret. On the other side, a vast pine forest stretches as far as the eye can see. The Dune isn't just worth visiting in the summer; don't hesitate to discover it under different colors throughout the year!
After the climb, treat yourself to a break on one of the large ocean beaches La Teste-de-Buch (le Petit Nice, la Lagune...) for a refreshing swim.
A day on the Banc d'Arguin
With beach towels and a picnic in hand, set off for a day on the Banc d'Arguin. Enjoy the boat ride while observing oyster farmers at work in the oyster beds before stepping onto the warm sand and playing Robinson Crusoe.
Arguin can only be accessed by boat for the day. Part of the sandbank is surrounded by a rope marked with signs "integral protection zone"; please do not cross it (it's a highly significant bird area). Camping and dogs are not allowed on the Banc d'Arguin.
Take a tour around the Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island)
Departing from Arcachon or the Lège-Cap Ferret peninsula, whether by boat or sea kayak, exploring this island in the middle of the Bay is a must.
When taking a boat, opt for high tide to get a closer look at the "Cabanes Tchanquées". A sea kayak is the ideal vessel! There are various routes available, from a simple discovery tour (2 hours), a longer tour (3 hours) or the extensive tour between land and sea (4 to 5 hours).Please note that for accessibility reasons, the Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island) is not open for visits.
Stroll through the aisles of the market for some shopping
The market in the centre of La Teste-de-Buch is one of the largest markets in Gironde ! In summer as in winter, there are many different stalls, enough to treat yourself or spoil your loved ones when you return from vacation. If you like oysters, go to the oyster port after the market, where several oyster huts offer tastings.
Contemplate the landscape of the Prés Salés Ouest
Departing from the oyster port, explore the West Salt Meadows on foot or by bicycle. A landscape that changes with the seasons and tides… sure to delight all nature lovers.
A nature trail with numerous educational panels allows one to visit this natural site. Don't forget your binoculars to get a closer look at the migratory birds!
Relax (or not) on Lake Cazaux
Time to unwind on the shores of Lake Cazaux ! With its nautical activities, its two fine sandy beaches and its wild creeks, Lac de Cazaux has some lovely surprises in store for you.
For water sports enthusiasts, this is the perfect time to try your hand at sailing, paddling or canoeing on one of France's largest freshwater lakes!
