THE DUNE OF PILAT

Is it still necessary to introduce Europe's highest and most majestic dune, located at the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon? And did you know that "Pilat" means heap or mound in Gascon? On foot, by bike, by bus or even by boat, there are many ways to reach the Dune du Pilat. Above all, you must dare to climb this mountain of sand to enjoy the sublime view of the ocean, the forest, the Arcachon Basin, the Cap-Ferret peninsula and the famous Banc d'Arguin. Before you lie 55 million^m3 of sand, witness to 4,000 years of history. This fragile, mobile masterpiece of nature shifts irregularly over the forest, from 1 to 5 metres per year. Grain by grain, the Dune du Pilat advances, burying everything in its path... When the tide is out, you can see magnificent, heavenly-colored sandbanks, including the Banc d'Arguin National Nature Reserve. The landscape of the Grand Site de la Dune du Pilat was profoundly affected by the disaster that ravaged the forest in the commune of La Teste-de-Buch in the summer of 2022. Access to the forest remains strictly forbidden. Both the Dune and the forest are nationally protected areas. Before coming, it's best to prepare for your visit by consulting the regulations, so that you can approach these wild natural spaces with peace of mind! In summer 2023, the Dune reception area will undergo a complete overhaul. Major works to improve year-round visiting conditions and better integrate the landscape were also on the agenda. There is a new bicycle path at the entrance to the site, and the pedestrian axis has been designed as a large promenade crossing the reception area. The cultural and catering outlets have also been accessible again since summer 2023. From April to October, the staircase is installed to facilitate and protect the ascent/descent of the dune. To climb the dune, remember to bring water, a hat, sunglasses and sun cream. In summer, given the high number of visitors to the site, it's best to visit early in the morning (sunrise) or later in the evening (sunset walk). Throughout the year, fun, themed guided tours are organized for everyone (families, children, hikers, holidaymakers, etc.). Another must: the sunset stroll, accompanied by a nature guide, which takes place every Wednesday evening from July to September. Allow another 1 hour. And what else? Hikes, storytelling walks... Like the cliffs of Etretat, the Puy-de-Dôme and the Marais Poitevin, the Dune du Pilat is a member of the Réseau des Grands Sites de France. The Syndicat Mixte de la Grande Dune du Pilat manages the lands of the Grand Site, notably those entrusted to it by the Conservatoire du Littoral. Alongside its partners, it works on a daily basis to preserve and promote these fragile environments, and to ensure that visitors can enjoy them in the best possible conditions. All parking revenues go back into site management: waste collection in natural areas, naturalist monitoring, free environmental education tools... Don't forget the annual pass! But above all, don't miss this great lady of sand overlooking the Arcachon basin.