Arcachon
City Tours · Gironde
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On the Atlantic coast near Bordeaux, Arcachon enchants as a favorite for swimmers and active travelers alike. Between soft sandy beaches, the sparkling sea, and the largest shifting sand dune in Europe, a maritime experience awaits you that goes far beyond the typical travel lists.
History & Rise
For a long time, Arcachon was just an insignificant fishing village. Its development into a luxury seaside resort only took place in the 19th century, driven largely by the major investors Émile and Isaac Pereire. Highlights of this era were the Château Deganne beach casino and the magnificent Moorish Casino. In 1857, Arcachon was finally declared an independent municipality by Napoleon III.
The Natural Wonder: Dune du Pilat
South of the villa suburbs of Pyla-sur-Mer towers the Dune du Pilat—at 110 meters high, it is the largest shifting sand dune in Europe. From its ridge, a spectacular 360° view opens up over the Bassin d'Arcachon, the Bank of Arguin, and the Cap Ferret lighthouse. Archaeological finds prove that this magical place was inhabited by humans as early as 2600 years ago.
Access to the dune is either via the forest parking lot with its comfortable staircase (April to November) or via the Corniche staircase at Avenue Louis-Gaume. The latter leads directly to the beach at the foot of the dune and offers small observation platforms for watching the flora and fauna. Especially in the evening, when the sun sinks into the Atlantic, this place unfolds an incomparable magic.
