Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat – An Active Holiday Guide

Running down the Dune du Pilat | © ACTIVEAZUR.com

Conquer Europe’s tallest sand dune

A natural phenomena drawing in tourists from far and wide, conquering the summit of the Dune du Pilat is an outstanding experience and a serious endurance test! The tallest sand dune in Europe, the spit of sand sits at 114 m above sea level, offering unmatched views out to sea and to the lush pine forests inland. Hike to the top using the purpose built stairway and soak up the panoramic views that stretch for miles in every direction, or test yourself and free climb to the peak, traversing the three km spine. Accessing the Dune du Pilat is free and easily reachable from Arcachon by bike or bus. For those of you wishing to drive, parking is available with the first 30 minutes free and 4 EUR for up to 4 hours (see Parking above).

Go surfing at La Pointe d’Arcachon | Go >

Head south past the dune on the road towards Biscarrosse and the beaches become wilder. This stretch of coastline known as the Côte d’Argent is the start of south-west France’s famous beach breaks and it’s popular with surfers from far and wide. The spot to head to is called La Salie. There’s an info centre called Le Spot where you’ll find all you need to know about renting surfboards and getting lessons. In summer, the waves are quite mellow and suitable for beginners but in the winter the powerful swell and strong currents make it the reserve of experts.

Paragliding the Dune du Pilat

If you’ve climbed the dune and find that casually observing the splendour of the Bassin d’Arcachon doesn’t quite hit the mark, you can join the many paragliders who flock to the Dune du Pilat to fly this unique piece of geography. To take to the skies with an instructor on a tandem paraglider, contact Pyla Parapente. Tandem paragliding on the dune starts from €50 for ten minutes.
Pyla Parapente, Plage du Petit Nice, 33115 Pyla sur Mer.
Tel +33 (0)6 20 91 53 92.

Cycle the Bassin d’Arcachon

Boasting 200km of unadulterated cycling heaven, cruise across the bay of Arcachon using their endless cycle paths. The perfect way to experience the stunning lagoon-like waters across the bay and the shaded pine forests protecting the coastline, choose between a number of cycle routes that range in duration, distance and difficulty. Take a break along the way with cultural pit stops for locally sourced oysters, rustic regional delicacies and friendly Gascon hospitality. Discover the wild and beautiful marshlands of the national bird reserve, breeze along the sun-kissed sand dunes, haggle at local produce markets and clock up the miles through the region’s extensive forest tracks. Push your limits on day circuits of the bay, or take a leisurely ride along the seafront with cycle routes for all levels and abilities.

The Arcachon tourist office has a website dedicated to cycle routes around the bay.

Climb the 258 steps of Cap Ferret’s historic lighthouse

A lazy, sun-kissed spit of sand on the the northern headland, Cap Ferret has become renowned as a luxury hot spot thanks to its secluded seaside sophistication. Not just bling and big money, Cap Ferret is steeped in history, remaining true to its laid-back and authentic maritime roots. Jettied at the furthest point of Cap Ferret’s peninsular sits the region’s only lighthouse. An auspicious landmark offering breath taking 360° views, follow in the footsteps of former lighthouse keepers and climb the winding stairs for a glimpse of the bay in all its glory. During low tide you can look out onto the moored traditional Pinasse boats, exposed oyster farms and golden sand spits that sculpt the region. A firm favourite for families, take a relaxed cycle up the bay to the lighthouse, finishing with a large helping of seafood at the surrounding oyster bars.

Access to the lighthouse is €6, which contributes towards conservation and preservation of the building. Riding up to Cap Ferret from Arcachon is a 77km day-ride, visiting all the ten towns along the way. Alternatively, water taxis run at high tide between the two points and are a quicker way to experience the Cap Ferret peninsula.

Take to the skies for a microlight tour

Flying through the sky with the greatest of ease, microlight tours are a majestic and impressive way of exploring Arcachon. A popular attraction thanks to the region’s unique climate, microlighting experiences are available from a number of spots around the bay. Discover the wide expanse of dense forest and tidal lagoons from the comfort of a professional microlight plane. With a fully qualified pilot in tow, set off from the local aerodrome and enjoy a completely freeing VIP experience; soaring through the piercing blue sky and descending over the Dune du Pilat. Ideal at sunset, glide along the tranquil coastline and circle the lighthouse, passing Ile de Oiseaux as the local birdlife come home to roost. An unforgettable experience, take in the jaw dropping views from local flying school ULM Evasion. Flights start from around €60 and can be reserved for sunrise and sunset depending on availability.

Explore France’s largest Seahorse reserve

Arcachon’s famous flora and fauna is not just resigned to the beautiful forests and seashores, there is a whole different world to explore under the sea. Home to the largest seahorse reserve in France, Arcachon’s PADI certified diving schools offer scuba diving experiences for water sports enthusiasts of all levels; first timers can wade in for a shallow dive, getting to grips with the equipment, whilst more experienced divers can jet out and explore the sunken WW11 bunkers and historic ‘Le Chariot’ shipwreck. Available for individuals and groups of all ages, grab your flippers and experience a vast array of marine life like tropical fish, colourful coral and protected seahorse species. A memorable experience by day, curious individuals can take a dip into the deep blue at night for an other worldly sensation.

Guided tours exploring the area start from €40 per person depending on previous experience and qualifications (not necessary). Plongee Hippo offers a range of diving options including night dives, shipwreck excursions and ‘Bio’ adventures.