Arcachon: A weekend with friends

Arcachon is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the region of Aquitaine. Sea air, ocean waves and endless soft sand beaches await you. Between relaxing, sightseeing and a whole host of other activities, this is the go-to weekend destination for you and your friends. So, grab your chums and let’s get going!

• Go for a stroll along the seafront
• Enjoy a pinnace boat tour
• Daydream your way around the Ville d’Hiver (Winter Town)
• A must see: the Dune du Pilat
• Rent a bike
• Take part in a treasure hunt aboard a canoe
• Stroll around Cap Ferret
• Have a drink at the Co(o)rniche
• Dine at Chez Pierre
• Book your stay in the serenity of La Villa des T

Head to the promenade (la Ville d’Été) and enjoy the sights of Thiers Pier, the port and the long beaches. Each has its own charm: Arcachon Beach for its view of the bay and Pereire Beach for the shade provided by the pine trees which border its western side.

There is nothing better than exploring the Bassin d’Arcachon and its cabanes tchanquées (huts on stilts) from aboard a pinnace. You’ll get to visit the Ile aux Oiseaux (bird island) and the villages of the peninsula. The crew will tell you about the bay and its traditions, or leave you to enjoy the scenery. Several options are available in regards to the route, so choose the duration which suits you, with or without stops. Enjoy!

Wandering through the neighbourhood of Ville d’Hiver is like taking a step back in time, a little away from the bustle of the promenade. The large bourgeois villas of the late 19th and early 20th centuries compete to be the most elegant. On every floor, the fretwork ensures an old-fashioned charm. A lift links this part of the city to the Ville d’Été.

On one side, the ocean; on the other, the forest. Visit the Dune du Pilat for an unparalleled experience. This attraction is remarkably large, standing more than 100 metres high, and is also the only moving dune, shifting slightly towards the east every year. Take off your shoes (soft sand massage guaranteed) and embark on the climb to enjoy a unique view from the top.

>> Discover the Dune du Pilat

The Bassin d’Arcachon (Arcachon Bay) is the ideal place to explore by bike. An abundance of cycle paths run along the sea (more than 200 km in fact!) or, alternatively, you can choose to cycle inland as the altitude difference is very little. As you’re pedalling along the waterfront, be sure to catch a glimpse of the Port of Arcachon. In the lively quartier of Moulleau, stop and do a bit of shopping. Continue to Prés salés, a nature escape where the landscape evolves according to the tides and the seasons.

Want to move a little more? Give this original treasure hunt a go. For adults, this hunt is an enjoyable way to add another dimension to the classic canoe ride. Geography, fauna, flora stimulate your brain while paddling in this protected area: The Vallée de la Leyre (Leyre Valley) and its natural park.

A trip to the more upmarket Cap Ferret is an excursion not to be missed. This area can be easily reached by shuttle. The peninsula gives the impression of being on the edge of the world. Take the time to look around and inhale the pleasant air. The oyster village of l’Herbe is one of many villages related to the oyster industry. The architecture of its small coloured chalets has a charming allure. You won’t be short of choice for an oyster tasting lunch break.

To prolong your evening or on your way back from the Dune du Pilat, treat yourself to a cocktail in the romantic setting of the Co(o)rniche bar. This place is chic and trendy but the ambiance is festive and relaxed.

A dual purpose superb establishment: Café de la plage offers a quick and easy lunch break (Iberian tartine, salad or sushi). Chez Pierre is the more elaborate version. On offer: shellfish and crustaceans, seafood platter, fish (of course!) and a plentiful menu for the meat fans. All this in addition to an incredible sea view.

Just a stone’s throw from Thiers Pier, this very well-situated guest house features three bespoke bedrooms. The cosy terrace and garden, the included breakfast and the location are added bonuses.