Arcachon
The town of Arcachon is situated in the south-east coast of the Arcachon bay, an interior sea of 15000 hectares protected arcachon-shopping.jpgfrom the open ocean by the Cap Ferret peninsular. About 30mins drive south of Bordeaux, Arcachon is the oldest resort of La Cote d’Argent and has always been a popular destination with the French for its many attractions.
There is a huge variety of out-door activities to enjoy :
- The beaches : perfect for sunbathing and relaxing
- Sports: from horse riding to golf to water sports such as surfing, sailing and canoeing. You can also explore the many bike paths.
- Nature reserve : the bassin is a popular birdwatching destination with two main reserves Parc Ornotholiqique du Teich and Ile aux Oiseaux (Bird Island)
- Sightseeing : discover traditional and picturesque oyster-farming villages such as L'Herbe, Le Canon and Piraillan, or take in the breathtaking views from the top of the Cap Ferret light house or the summit of La Dune du Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dune.
- - Trips : There is an old fashioned tramway which takes you on a 2 km trip from “La jetée Bélisaire” bassin side to “La plage de l’Horizon” on the west cost. A great way to discover the area is to go on one of boat rides leaving from Arcachon, Cap Ferret, le Canon or Le Grand Picuey. Aboard this craft you can admire the famous cabanes tchanquées (cabins on stilts), as well as go to the Ile aux Oiseaux (Bird Island)
- - Eating : This area is renowned for its oysters; visit one of the oyster farms that serve them fresh from the bay.
- - Vineyards : Just a short drive inland is the Medoc region here you can visit chateaux such as Margaux, Lafite or Mouton Rothschild.
- - Shopping : Bordeaux is just 45mins drive away
For more information please go to the following web sites : www.arcachon.com