Local towns and villages

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12 highlights but only 1 Bay

It’s difficult to make a choice among all the must-do activities for your holidays. There are 1,001 different ways to discover the Arcachon Bay, and here is a selection of 12 must-sees.

The Pilat Dune

Without doubt the most famous sand dune in the world, you need to climb to the top to appreciate its size! The Dune of Le Pilat is definitely the must-see of any first visit, and can be seen in a…

The Pilat Dune

Cabanes Tchanquées

People are fascinated by them, and you will find out why when you discover the famous Cabanes Tchanquées huts on the Île aux Oiseaux. See them close up in a sea kayak or during a boat trip.

Cabanes Tchanquées

The Banc d’Arguin

A great family day out awaits you on the Banc d’Arguin. This nature reserve sits between the waters of Arcachon Bay and the Ocean, with a 360°-degree view for admiring local sights such as the famous Dune of Le Pilat.

The Banc d’Arguin

Take a break and taste local products on the Bay.

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Villages and oyster-farming ports

Gujan-Mestras, Andernos, L’Aiguillon, Cap Ferret, L’Herbe, Le Canon or Biganos… some of these names might sound familiar to you. Come for a stroll, enjoy a couple of oysters and meet the oyster farmers who will gladly share their passion with…

Villages and oyster-farming ports

Beaches

You will be spoilt for choice for relaxing on a beach. Jump into the waves of the Atlantic Ocean in Lège-Cap Ferret and La Teste de Buch, or enjoy calmer waters in Arcachon Bay or at Cazaux Lake. Come and…

Beaches

Arcachon Bay Markets

Each town has its own market with its own ambiance, colours and flavours… and they are in full swing all year round! Produce from the sea is, of course, the most popular in Arcachon Bay, but you will also find…

Arcachon Bay Markets

Be tempted by a nautical activity: canoe, paddle, ...

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The Winter City

Far from the bustling beaches, wander around the streets in search of the most attractive villas and saunter through the Parc Mauresque up to the Sainte-Cécile Observatory.

The Winter City

The Ornithological Reserve

In some years, more than 300,000 birds stop off at the Le Teich Ornithological Reserve in Arcachon Bay. Marshes, reed beds, meadows and lagoons all await you on a bucolic trip to the Ornithological Reserve.

The Ornithological Reserve

Boat trips

Round off the outing in the perfect way with a platter of oysters and glass of wine at sunset!

Boat trips

Make an exit around the "Cabanes Chanquées".

Who can bring me?

The piers

Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Arcachon Bay piers are the place to be! Discover them in summer and winter, while breathing in the salty air of the Bay.

The piers

Cap Ferret Lighthouse and Point

Whatever the season, this is a visit you won’t want to miss out on in Lège-Cap Ferret. Admire one of the finest panoramic views of the Bay of Arcachon from the top of the Lighthouse or at the very tip…

Cap Ferret Lighthouse and Point

The Salt Meadows of Arès-Lège

Savannah-like in summer and forest-like in winter, the salt meadows change appearance with the passing seasons. Enjoy the unspoilt nature of the Bay and set out to discover a multitude of bird species and plenty of other wildlife!

The Salt Meadows of Arès-Lège