Local towns and villages

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La Teste de Buch, jewel of the Bay

Famous for the majestic Dune du Pilat, La Teste de Buch offers a number of activities all year round. Here, you will find all the Bay’s different facets in a single town… looks like the holidays will be packed with fun!

Climb the tallest dune in Europe: the Dune of Le Pilat

Climbing the Dune of Le Pilat will take you to one of the most spectacular views in France! Venture beyond the top of the stairs… you wouldn’t think to look at it that it is a natural monument in constant movement and an outdoor history book. From the top, at a height of 110m, you can admire a magnificent, unobstructed view of the Banc d’Arguin, while on the other side the pine forest stretches as far as the eye can see. You can visit the dune at any time of year, so don’t hesitate to come and discover it in different seasons!

After your adventure, take some time out on one of the large ocean beaches in La Teste de Buch (Le Petit Nice, La Lagune…) for a refreshing swim.

Before coming, check out the parking attendance in real time below:

A day out on the Banc d’Arguin

Pack your beach towels and picnic and set off to the Banc d’Arguin for the day in July or August. During the boat trip you will see oyster farmers tending their stock, before you touch ground on the hot sand and enjoy playing at Robinson Crusoe or bathing on this seemingly endless sandy island.
Arguin is only accessible by boat for the day with UBA. Part of the island is cordoned off by a rope with panels reading “Zone de protection intégrale” (preservation zone), please do not cross over (major ornithological site). Wild camping and dogs are not permitted.

Take a trip around the Île aux Oiseaux

Don’t miss out on a trip by boat or sea kayak from Arcachon or the peninsula around this island situated in the middle of the Bay. Sea kayak is the best mode of transport, but if you go by boat, aim to go at high tide to get a closer view of the Cabanes Tchanquées. There are a number of different outings available, from a simple discovery (2hrs), to longer trips (3hrs) or an excursion between land and sea (4 to 5hrs). For reasons of accessibility, the Île aux Oiseaux cannot be visited.

Wander through the market and pick up a few goodies

The market in the centre of La Teste de Buch is one of the largest in Gironde. In summer, there are numerous different stalls with plenty of choice for treating yourself or buying presents for friends and family back home, and afterwards, if you like oysters, go to the oyster port where a number of places provide tastings.

Admire the West Salt Meadows

Set out from the oyster port to discover the Salt Meadows and freshwater marshes on foot or by bike. Follow the interpretation path to admire the different views, and don’t forget your binoculars for a closer look at the migratory birds which stop off here!

Laze (or not!) at Cazaux Lake

Time for a break on the banks of Cazaux Lake! With its water activities, two fine sandy beaches and unspoilt coves, Cazaux Lake has plenty of surprises in store for you. For those who like water activities, take the opportunity to try out sailing, stand-up paddle boarding or diving in one of the biggest freshwater lakes in France!

Take a trip to the zoo for a day out with the children!