Dominating the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon, the Dune du Pilat is the highest dune in Europe. Rising to a height of over 100 metres, it offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, the Landes forest and the Banc d’Arguin. For the more courageous, climbing the Dune du Pilat is an experience not to be missed. Once at the summit, the view is breathtaking. This natural Arcachon Basin attracts visitors from all over France.
Arcachon Basin, prepare your stay
The Bassin d’Arcachon is a popular destination on the west coast of France. Around 60 kilometers west of Bordeaux, it’s part of the Côte d’Argent, the area bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Your 4-star campsite on the Bassin d’Arcachon, La Fontaine Vieille, offers you a list of things to do during your stay on the Bassin d’Arcachon, so follow the guide!
How to get to the Bassin d’Arcachon?
Looking for what to do on your vacation in the Bay of Arcachon ? Between the town of Arcachon and villages such as La Teste-de-Buch, Lège-Cap-Ferret, Andernos and Gujan-Mestras, there’s no shortage of activities. Accessible by car, train or boat, the Bassin d’Arcachon is an attractive area for visitors wishing to explore France’s Atlantic coastline.
To get to the Arcachon Basinhere are the main transport options:
- Visit train Take the TGV to Bordeaux (approx. 2h15), then the TER to Arcachon (approx. 50 minutes).
- On plane The Bordeaux-Mérignac airport is about 45 minutes’ drive from Arcachon. Shuttles, cabs and car rentals are available at the airport.
- By by car from Bordeaux Approx. 50 minutes via the A63 freeway, then take the Arcachon exit (A660).
- By by car from Paris Approximately 6 hours via the A10 freeway.
La Dune du Pilat
The tip of Cap Ferret
Located at the tip of the Bay of Arcachon, the Pointe du Cap Ferret is an emblematic place to visit during your vacation. Accessible via a sandy path and surrounded by maritime pines, it offers a breathtaking view of the Dune du Pilatthe Arcachon Basin and the ocean. Visitors can discover the Cap Ferret lighthousethe symbol of the region, and enjoy a stroll along the wild beaches. This unspoilt setting is ideal for a family or romantic getaway.
Visit the oyster ports
The Arcachon Basin is famous for its oysters. Visiting the oyster ports is a real immersion in the region’s traditional activity. These small oyster-farming villages, such as Gujan-Mestras, Andernos-les-Bains or L’Herbe, let you discover the ancestral know-how of the oyster farmers of the Bassin d’Arcachon. If you’re looking for an authentic experience on the Arcachon Basinvisit an oyster port.
Relax on one of Andernos-les-Bains’ beaches
Andernos-les-Bains, a charming seaside resort on the Arcachon Basinis renowned for its family-friendly beaches. The beaches are ideal for relaxing, swimming and water sports. Soak up the sun on the fine sand and stroll along the jetty. Our campsite offers quick access to the Andernos beachtake advantage!
Cycling around the Bay of Arcachon
The tour of the Bay of Arcachon by bike is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. Thanks to a network of well-developed cycle paths, you can discover the varied landscapes of the Bassin d’Arcachon at your own pace, passing through pine forests, oyster-farming villages and unspoilt beaches. The Vélodyssée circuit, in particular, offers a loop of more than 80 kilometers that allows you to discover the main sites of the Arcachon Basin. Arcachon Basin while enjoying a pleasant sporting activity.
Admire the Le Teich bird sanctuary
For nature and ornithology enthusiasts, the Le Teich ornithological reserve is a must-see. This protected site, located on the southern shore of the Bay of Arcachon, is home to a wide variety of migratory, sedentary and breeding birds. The reserve offers marked trails and observatories to enable visitors to observe birds in their natural habitat, while respecting their tranquility. It’s an ideal place to immerse yourself in the heart of the Arcachon Basin.
Take a boat trip
Explore the Arcachon Basin from the sea is another activity not to be missed. Numerous companies offer boat excursions to places inaccessible from land, such as the île aux Oiseaux and its famous cabanes tchanquées, or the Banc d’Arguin, a nature reserve opposite the Dune du Pilat. A boat trip is also an opportunity to appreciate the unique landscape of the Arcachon Basin and enjoy a relaxing moment on the water.
Watching the sun set over the Bay of Arcachon
End your day admiring the sunset over the Arcachon Basin. Rendez-vous sur la plage du Moulleau, la jetée de la Chapelle à Cap Ferret, ou encore depuis un bateau, pour admirer le soleil se coucher sur le Bassin d’Arcachon.
The Arcachon Basin is a destination rich in discoveries, so don’t wait any longer and book your stay at the 4-star Fontaine Vieille campsite in Andernos to enjoy an exceptional setting during your vacation.