Travel Guide Arcachon

Arcachon is the emblematic destination of southwest France. It captivates visitors with its natural beauty and serene ambience. Nestled in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, this seaside town is famous for the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe! It offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes forest. Arcachon is divided into four districts, known as the four seasons, each with its own unique charm. The summer district, with its magnificent beaches and lively nightlife, is particularly popular with young people and families. Its beaches and lively downtown area are also very appealing. The Ville d'Hiver, accessible from the Parc Mauresque, hides architectural treasures, including sumptuous ^19th-century villas and the Sainte-Cécile observatory, which boasts a breathtaking view of the city. The Ville d'Automne takes you to the Aiguillon fishermen's quarter and the port, while the Ville de Printemps features Plage Pereire and the Source des Abatilles. Arcachon's jetties, notably Eyrac and Moulleau, offer exceptional scenery. Excursions to Île aux Oiseaux and charming oyster-farming villages such as Cap Ferret and Cabanes Tchanquées enrich the Arcachon experience. The Bassin d'Arcachon boasts an exceptional ecosystem, making it a paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. It's also famous for its oyster beds, where adventurers can discover the secrets of oyster farming and taste freshly harvested oysters.

The Aiguillon district, with its colorful huts, the Pereire and Moulleau beaches offer relaxation and magnificent views of the Dune du Pilat. Arcachon's evenings are alive with the Olympia Theatre, concerts and trendy bars, especially in the Moulleau district. Visit theChurch of Notre-Dame des Passes, a spiritual and historical landmark in the heart of Arcachon.

The Basilique Notre-Dame d'Arcachon is a must-see for its stained glass windows and fascinating history. Le Belvédère, meanwhile, unveils a breathtaking panoramic view of Arcachon and the Bassin, and is the ideal place to capture the beauty of the region and the Côte d'Argent that stretches along the coastline. It's famous for its golden beaches and surfers' favorite waves. Also discover the Cadences dance festival, which celebrates art in all its forms, with lively, captivating performances by the sea. And the Fête d'Arcachon showcases local culture and traditions with fireworks, concerts and markets. Then, for a fascinating journey under the sea, the Musée-Aquarium d'Arcachon presents the marine biodiversity and natural history of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on the Passant III for a memorable cruise through the Bay of Arcachon, discovering its secrets and beauty. Pinasses, the superb traditional boats of the Basin, offer an elegant and authentic way to explore the tranquil waters of the basin. Last but not least, for an exhaustive discovery of Arcachon, nothing beats the guided tours offered by the Tourist Office: they reveal the town's hidden treasures!

On land, the 315 km of cycle paths invite you to discover the region in a unique way. The local gastronomy, a blend of maritime and land-based flavors, offers memorable culinary discoveries, including specialties such as grey shrimp and cannelé bordelais. To complete your stay in Arcachon, discover the best restaurant addresses, exploreaccommodation options for a well-deserved rest and be sure to visit points of interest to enrich your experience! Ready to go?