The Arcachon Basin : The Arcachon Basin

Real vacations are here !! In the Bassin d'Arcachon. Come and discover this magnificent mesotidal lagoon of 150 km² at high tide and 40 km² at low tide, in the Landes de Gascogne which is home to the Bassin Natural Park. Just 50 km from Bordeaux, the Bassin d'Arcachon benefits from a mild climate and a high rate of sunshine. It is an area very rich in marine and terrestrial biodiversity, with a large number of species of birds and mammals.

The Bassin d'Arcachon is made up of sand and salt marshes, and is bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The region is rich in aquatic flora and fauna, making it a prime location for fishing, canoeing and nautical activities. In addition to nautical activities, the basin also offers several possibilities for hiking, biking and horseback riding.

From the Dune du Pilat to the tip of Cap Ferret, go around a world apart!

The peninsula of Lège-Cap-Ferret

The peninsula of Lège-Cap-Ferret is known for its magnificent landscapes composed of dunes, lagoons, fine sandy beaches and pine woods.

11 villages all intimately linked to the Bassin d'Arcachon
9 oyster ports
25 km of ocean beaches along the dunes
7000 ha of forest

The peninsula of Lège-Cap-Ferret is a place rich in history and culture. It was populated in medieval times and has been a favorite haunt for artists and writers since the 19th century. Today, it is a favorite place for vacationers looking for a quiet and relaxing place to spend their holidays.

It is undoubtedly from the top of the Cap-Ferret lighthouse (258 steps) that you can best admire the breathtaking 360° view of this preserved peninsula, the Dune du Pilat and the entire Bassin d'Arcachon. Indeed, the Cap-Ferret lighthouse is the largest lighthouse on the French Atlantic coast. It is almost 70 meters high and its lantern is visible from 35 km around.

The Dune of Pilat

The highest sand dune in Europe

Classified as a major national site
109 meters high
3000 meters long
500 meters wide
More than 1,200,000 visitors per year

This natural dune was formed by the wind and the sand which are transported by the waves and the sea currents. It sits on a wild beach and is surrounded by pine groves and forests. It is a favorite spot for walkers, who can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding area.

Finally, the Dune du Pilat is a classified and protected site, and a center for research and protection of biodiversity. Measures are taken to preserve the dune and its surroundings, and so that visitors can enjoy it in complete safety.

At the top, panoramic view of the wonders of the Basin: the Banc d'Arguin, l'Île Aux Oiseaux !

Bird Island

Symbol of the Arcachon Basin

5 kms in circumference at high tide
16kms at low tide
165 ha at high tide
1700 ha at low tide

A listed natural site, the Ile aux Oiseaux is known for its two stilt-mounted huts, which are the symbol of the Bay.

Wild and preserved, the island is inhabited by a multitude of birds (egrets, sandpipers, larks, ducks, etc.).

Come and visit the island by boat. Guided tour with the UBA (Union des Bateliers Arcachonnais), or a lover of the Basin on board a pinasse.

Finally, the Île aux Oiseaux is a must for anyone visiting the Bassin d'Arcachon. You can spend unforgettable moments in an exceptional natural setting.

As our campsite is a family-run, intimate establishment, with the emphasis on calm and relaxation, we are unable to accept groups.
Thank you for your understanding.

But also...

The reserve of the salt meadows of Arès

Classified as a nature reserve in 1983 – 495 ha of natural areas – Nearly 150 species of birds

You can access the Prés Salés in two ways. From the oyster port of Arès or from the Résinier cabin in Lège-Cap Ferret.

The salt meadows reserve and the rich fauna and flora of the Arcachon Bay

Discover the rich fauna and flora during a walk to the nature reserve of the salt meadows which are full of protected natural sites.

Looking like savannah in summer and forest in winter, the Prés Salés of Arès-Lège change in appearance with the seasons and with each tide.

In spring, the birds settle there to nest, the spectacle becomes auditory! In autumn, the lights play with the vegetation, a real pleasure for the eyes. In winter, we observe wintering water birds in the Bassin d'Arcachon such as the brant goose.

Guided tours are offered to discover the biodiversity of this nature reserve as well as entertainment for children.

Information and booking at the Arès Tourist Office website.

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