On the Arcachon Bay, the ports and oyster-farming villages are part of the scenery!
And each one has its own charm and personality. Explore them on foot, by bike, or even by boat to experience a true vacation moment! People come here to savor fresh oysters with their feet in the water at the local oyster farmer’s cabin. Stroll along the colorful cabins, or admire the coming and going of the fishing boats.
Exploring the oyster-farming villages
Many of us enjoy a walk among the oyster-farming cabins, both in summer and winter. Just a few rays of sunshine are enough to make us want to breathe in the sea air of the Arcachon Bay. All around the Bay, you have oyster-farming ports and villages such as La Teste de Buch, Gujan-Mestras, Biganos, Andernos, Ares…
Don't miss the Village de l'Herbe , which is Lege-Cap Ferret. Famous for its wooden cabins with bright colors and its Villa Algérienne Chapel, this village has a picturesque charm that resembles a postcard.
In addition to being an ideal place for leisurely walks, the oyster-farming village of Mimbeau (Cap Ferret) is one of those with the Dune du Pilat in the background! Not far away, the Bélisaire pier is the starting point for "pinasses" (traditional boats), boats, and flat-bottomed boats to discover the Banc d'Arguin, the cabins on stilts and the coast of the Peninsula.
Bassin smart : in summer, remember to bring your swimsuits, as the small beaches near the oyster-farming villages will tempt you. Once in the water, the 360° view of the colorful cabins and the Dune du Pilat is just perfect. Oyster tastings are, of course, part of the experience.
Discovering the oyster-farming ports of the Arcachon Bay and their activities
Visiting the oyster-farming ports of the Arcachon Bay is also an opportunity to meet the professionals of oyster farming and fishing. The colorful cabins that line the ports often house the equipment necessary for oyster cultivation and fishing.
A genuine hub of activity, settle by the water edge at the ports ofAres orAndernos les Bains to admire the coming and going of the fishing boats returning laden with oyster bags. And for a bucolic atmosphere, let yourself be carried away to the port of Biganos.
Enjoy the magnificent sunsets of the Arcachon Bay in every season!
Bassin smart tip : while exploring the ports, don't miss Gujan-Mestrasthe town with seven ports and the oyster capital of the Arcachon Bay.
To learn all about the history of oysters, visit the "Maison de l'huître" (Oyster House) on the Port of Larros. Now a must-visit in Gujan-Mestras, you will understand the breeding techniques and the work of oyster farming through the centuries. This oyster museum is open all year round.