Explore the Arcachon Basin
Less than an hour from our hotel in Mérignac, the Arcachon Basin unfolds spectacular landscapes, from authentic villages and seascapes to iconic natural sites!
From the Hôtel du Phare***, easily explore this unmissable region of the Atlantic coast, ideal for a getaway combining ocean, heritage, and the art of living.
It's impossible to talk about the Basin without mentioning the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe.
At over 100 meters high and nearly 3 kilometers long, this natural monument impresses as much by its size as by the landscapes it reveals.
Once at the top, the panorama is breathtaking: the Banc d'Arguin Nature Reserve, the ocean, the Landes forest, and the Pointe du Cap Ferret stretch as far as the eye can see.
At its base, the Corniche beach extends the experience with a relaxing break by the water.
Symbols of the Arcachon Basin, the famous stilted cabins are among the most iconic sites to discover.
Perched on stilts in the heart of Île aux Oiseaux, they are best viewed from the water.
Embark from Arcachon aboard a pinasse (traditional boat) or a tour boat to get close to this unique setting.
For a more immersive experience, sea kayaking will allow you to get up close, especially at high tide.
For a more heritage-focused experience, head to the Winter Town, one of Arcachon's most charming districts.
Its shaded alleyways reveal superb 19th-century villas with sometimes extravagant architecture.
Continue your stroll through Parc Mauresque, a verdant haven overlooking the town, then on to the Sainte-Cécile Observatory, whose viewpoint offers a remarkable view of the Bay.
Facing Arcachon, Cap Ferret reveals another facet of the Bay. Climb the 258 steps of the lighthouse to admire a 360° panorama of the oyster beds, the Dune du Pilat, and the Mimbeau.
Offshore, the Banc d’Arguin is one of the area's natural gems.
Accessible by boat, this shifting reserve between sand and ocean is an exceptional site for observing seabirds and unspoiled landscapes.
The Arcachon Bay can also be discovered through its ports and oyster-farming villages, veritable living postcards.
Gujan-Mestras, Andernos, Arès, and Biganos reveal their colorful beach huts, peaceful harbors, and authentic atmosphere.
On the peninsula, the village of L'Herbe is a must-see, as is Mimbeau, perfect for a stroll with your feet practically in the water.
Here, you can take the time to wander, sample oysters at a producer's farm, and savor the spirit of the Arcachon Basin.
The Hôtel du Phare, located just outside Bordeaux, welcomes you year-round to explore the Arcachon Basin at your own pace.
Book one of our 50 fully renovated rooms, and once you return from your excursions, you can enjoy the seasonal bistro-style cuisine of our restaurant!
From the Hôtel du Phare***, easily explore this unmissable region of the Atlantic coast, ideal for a getaway combining ocean, heritage, and the art of living.
Climb the Dune du Pilat
It's impossible to talk about the Basin without mentioning the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe.
At over 100 meters high and nearly 3 kilometers long, this natural monument impresses as much by its size as by the landscapes it reveals.
Once at the top, the panorama is breathtaking: the Banc d'Arguin Nature Reserve, the ocean, the Landes forest, and the Pointe du Cap Ferret stretch as far as the eye can see.
At its base, the Corniche beach extends the experience with a relaxing break by the water.
Admire the stilted cabins of Île aux Oiseaux
Symbols of the Arcachon Basin, the famous stilted cabins are among the most iconic sites to discover.
Perched on stilts in the heart of Île aux Oiseaux, they are best viewed from the water.
Embark from Arcachon aboard a pinasse (traditional boat) or a tour boat to get close to this unique setting.
For a more immersive experience, sea kayaking will allow you to get up close, especially at high tide.
Stroll through Arcachon's Winter Town
For a more heritage-focused experience, head to the Winter Town, one of Arcachon's most charming districts.
Its shaded alleyways reveal superb 19th-century villas with sometimes extravagant architecture.
Continue your stroll through Parc Mauresque, a verdant haven overlooking the town, then on to the Sainte-Cécile Observatory, whose viewpoint offers a remarkable view of the Bay.
Discover Cap Ferret and the Banc d’Arguin
Facing Arcachon, Cap Ferret reveals another facet of the Bay. Climb the 258 steps of the lighthouse to admire a 360° panorama of the oyster beds, the Dune du Pilat, and the Mimbeau.
Offshore, the Banc d’Arguin is one of the area's natural gems.
Accessible by boat, this shifting reserve between sand and ocean is an exceptional site for observing seabirds and unspoiled landscapes.
Explore the oyster-farming villages of the Bay
The Arcachon Bay can also be discovered through its ports and oyster-farming villages, veritable living postcards.
Gujan-Mestras, Andernos, Arès, and Biganos reveal their colorful beach huts, peaceful harbors, and authentic atmosphere.
On the peninsula, the village of L'Herbe is a must-see, as is Mimbeau, perfect for a stroll with your feet practically in the water.
Here, you can take the time to wander, sample oysters at a producer's farm, and savor the spirit of the Arcachon Basin.
The Hôtel du Phare, located just outside Bordeaux, welcomes you year-round to explore the Arcachon Basin at your own pace.
Book one of our 50 fully renovated rooms, and once you return from your excursions, you can enjoy the seasonal bistro-style cuisine of our restaurant!
