The secrets of oyster farming on the Bay of Arcachon
With dozens of harbors spread from Cap-Ferret to Gujan-Mestras, the oyster-fishing atmosphere is a must during your visit. Each commune along the Bassin d’Arcachon has one or more oyster-fishing ports. While there are many specialties on the Bay, oyster farming is probably the best known. Let’s delve into the history and origins of oyster and oyster farming in the Bassin d’Arcachon. Discoveries guaranteed!
A little history
Before they started growing oysters, the local fishermen had been fishing and gathering oysters since ancient times. In the 17th century, the monarchy, aristocracy and bourgeoisie became infatuated with the mollusc, and oysters became a highly sought-after luxury delicacy. Its profitability, however, led to the depletion of its natural deposits. The arrival of the railroads in the 1840s condemned the last oysters, which had once been endemic to the area, but were now becoming increasingly rare. With the development of the oyster trade came the unprecedented growth of a number of industries: shippers, janitors, but also loggers to meet the need to build infrastructure such as pinnaces and huts. These professions are intimately linked to the development and advent of the oyster on the Bay of Arcachon. Many made their fortunes, and the local communities reaped the benefits.
In 1859, Victor Coste, commissioned by Napoleon III to develop the production of marine species on the Atlantic coast, created the very first oyster beds, which he called “parcs impériaux”. However, the spat, the young oysters, were damaged during detaching, resulting in significant losses. In 1865, Jean Michelet, a mason living in Arcachon, innovated by creating a natural catchment technique called chaulage: submerged hollow tiles, coated with a water-resistant product, which allowed the spat and oysters to develop.
Oyster villages and huts, symbols of oyster farming on the Bay of Arcachon
Oyster farming is deeply rooted in the Bay of Arcachon. This is reflected not only in its gastronomy, but also in its architecture. Tasting delicious oysters is great, but enjoying them in or in front of one of the many oyster huts that make up the Arcachon environment is even better. That’s what many of our oyster huts have to offer, depending on what’s available. After tourism, oyster farming is the dominant economic activity on the Bay of Arcachon. By combining the two, you can enjoy a tasty break in an idyllic, timeless setting.
The “Maison de l’Huître” museum on the Bay of Arcachon
If you’re passing through the Port de Larros in Gujan-Mestras, a visit to the“Maison de l’Huître” oyster museum is a must. It offers an educational and entertaining tour of the origins of oyster farming, from its infancy to its advent. Go to the source, to the origins, and follow the guide. The visit to La Maison de L’Huître is divided into 3 stages:
- You start by watching a film on the history ofoyster farming.
- This is followed by a guided tour of the different rooms that make up the Maison de l’Huître.
- Your visit ends with a self-guided discovery of the outdoor trail.
Allow around 1 hour for a complete tour of the site.
Where to taste and buy oysters in the Arcachon basin?
From Cap Ferret to Arcachon, you’ll find one oyster hut after another. Eating oysters directly from the producer in an oyster hut on the water’s edge is a convivial and authentic experience, not to be missed during your camping vacation in the Arcachon basin. We present some of them here…
Oysters at Cap Ferret
At 28 avenue de la Conche, you can enjoy oysters on the water, in a romantic setting overlooking the Dune du Pilat.
In this cabin, owner Sylvie will introduce you to the fascinating world of oyster farming. Cabane 57 is located at 40 rue du Littoral.
Tasting oysters elsewhere around the Arcachon basin
Located just over 2km from Les Écureuils campsite in Arès, this shack on the Arès oyster port is a veritable institution in the Arcachon Basin. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have about the oyster-farming profession, and the staff will be happy to help!
Another great address in Arès! A pleasant terrace and a warm welcome. Would you like to discover the Bassin on your next vacation? Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the superb facilities offered by Camping Les Écureuils, a 3-star campsite in Arès on the Bassin d’Arcachon.
