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Côte d’Argent |
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Beginning at the Gironde Estuary to the north and travelling as far south as Biarritz, the Côte d’Argent (‘Silver Coast’) boasts almost 300 km of glorious coastline, incredible beaches and an amazing array of outdoor activities. To top it all off, the area is also home to some of the finest French cuisine and world famous wines.
Travelling north to south, you have a vast choice of things to see and do, depending on your personal preferences. Médoc Bleu, the first of four areas along the Côte d’Argent is ideally suited to travellers looking to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of city living and re-discover the great outdoors. Coloured by the blue ocean, gold sand dunes and green forests, this area contains the quiet seaside town of Soulac-sur-Mer and family orientated settlements such as Montalivet-les-Bains and Lacanau-Océan. In the latter two; expect to find numerous outdoor activities such as golf, surfing, watersports, horse-riding and cycling, while just a short drive away - the Médoc Rouge is home to some of the world’s most famous châteaux and wine-tasting, notably Château Margaux, Château Lafite and Château Mouton-Rothschild.
 Médoc Bleu also boasts 100km of coastline, with the aforementioned towns offering ample supervised beach and bathing areas. Should they appear too busy, alternatives are never far away. For ultimate tranquillity hire a bicycle and head for the beaches at one of the local lakes or ‘étangs’ as they are known locally. Some great étangs can be found close to Lacanau and d’Hourtin-Carcans and are perfect for youngsters to paddle in.
The next coastal area south - and arguably the most popular with tourists - is the Bassin d’Arcachon. Catering for those out just to relax and take it easy, catch the sun or partake in outdoor activities, Arcachon has it all.
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Bay of Arcachon |
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Head for the Bay of Arcachon and enjoy a spot of sailing, where you can hire a boat or take one of the tours out of the bay. Marvel at the wondrous Ile aux Oiseaux and look at the unusual ‘maisions tchanquées’ - which are literally houses on stilts! It is in the mouth of the bay however, where you will be able to see one of the true wonders of Arcachon; the famous Great Dune of Pyla. This, the largest sand dune in Europe, can be found in the Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay and is also reachable by car. Standing at over 100 metres in height, you are able to climb to its summit via a staircase and if your timing is right; enjoy one of the most incredible sunsets you are ever likely to see.
 Watersports are popular in this area and should your stay allow, why not go on one of the short surfing courses for beginners and the more advanced alike? With good surf available all year round, head to le Truc Vert and le Grand Crohot on the nearby Cap Ferret coast. If that’s not your bag, try your arm at canoeing, which provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the Bassin’s fantastic environment. Le Cap Ferret itself is where you will find one of the more ‘cosmopolitan’ spots in the area. Upmarket boutiques, cafes and restaurants vie for the tourist’s attention in a relaxed, ambient setting.
Should you be looking to go beyond the beaches and more physically demanding activities, Arcachon also provides for those looking to take some time out and simply breathe some air into their lungs. Birdwatchers and nature lovers alike should head to the Parc Ornotholiqique du Teich which is accessible by boat from one of the many Arcachon jetties, whilst equally as close are even more of the area’s fine vineyards including Margaux, Mouton Rothschild and Lafite. |
This webpage is intended to be used as a source of information only. Traveljigsaw gives no warranty or guarantee whatsoever regarding the accuracy, currency, reliability or completeness of the information provided for these events and attractions. Any warranties regarding such information which may be implied by law, statute or otherwise are hereby excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law. Visitors are advised to check the accuracy of the information provided here for themselves, including dates, fees and times, with the attractions or event providers themselves |
