Discover the Arcachon Bay
The Bassin d’Arcachon, in the heart of the Landes de Gascogne, is a little corner of paradise forecotourism enthusiasts in France.
This vast lagoon embracing the Atlantic Ocean is made up of a large number of fragile and impressive natural sites that are well worth a visit. The Bassin d’Arcachon is located in the south-west of the Gironde, around 50 km from Bordeaux. It is triangular in shape, with over 80 km of mostly wooded coastline. Forests are generous and abundant in this area, which is also dotted with dunes,ponds, rivers and clearings.
One of the attractions of the Bassin d’Arcachon is, of course, the Dune du Pilat. This dune is impressive not only for its size (the highest in Europe), but also for its location (on the edge of an equally fascinating forest massif). Listed as an exceptional natural monument, it reaches a height of over 103 m. What’s also interesting is that the Dune du Pilat (Pilat Dune) is always on the move. In fact, it moves eastwards by 1 m to 5 m per year under the influence of winds and tides. Its dimensions therefore vary from year to year. Climbing its slopes is a real feat, with a reward in store: once you reach the summit, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking views it offers.
Bird Island
Accessible only by boat, this enchanting islet seems to have risen out of the water. Its dimensions vary with the tide. Its circumference can range from 5 km to 16 km, and it is surrounded by oyster beds.
Ile aux Oiseaux is also home to over 300 species of birds , which come to feed in the waters teeming with small fish and crustaceans. It’s here that you’ll discover the famous “cabanes tchanquées“, or stilt houses, the unmistakable symbols of the Arcachon Basin and Ile aux Oiseaux.
Discover the Le Teich bird sanctuary
This protected natural park is a popular place for adventure and exploration in the Bay of Arcachon. With a surface area of 496 ha, it is one of the largest parks in the region. The Prés Salés nature reserve is home to an impressive concentration of perfectly preserved flora. The perpetual metamorphosis of this park, which alternates between mudflats and land depending on the tide, never fails to fascinate visitors. The Teich ornithological reserve is also a wintering and breeding ground for wetland bird species, which is why it’s so important to keep it in its original, wild state. A great nature walk for all the family.
The Arguin Bank
It’s one of the most beautiful bird sanctuaries in the Bay of Arcachon. This immense sandbank is an exceptional place, accessible only by boat. Relax for a day on the Banc d’Arguin, surrounded by the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Bassin d’Arcachon, with a good picnic and a splendid view of the Dune du Pilat. After a short stroll across the island, you’ll come to the ocean, where you can dive into the waves. A magical place not to be missed during your vacation at our campsite in the Bassin d’Arcachon.
Take a break from everyday life and set off on an adventure during your holiday in the Bay of Arcachon and explore the 10 picturesque towns in the area.
