Arcachon town
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Arcachon - by Claude Richard on Google
Description
Arcachon is a seaside town on the Atlantic Coast, 55km southwest of Bordeaux. It is surrounded by the Landes Forest and Arcachon Bay with the Dune du Pilat, Europe tallest sand dune, located immediately south of the commune. The town initially developed in the mid-19th century when sea bathing became fashionable. It was popular for its mild climate and many wealthy people came to spend the winter there, in a district that is still known to this day as the "winter city" with its famous "Arcachonnaise" villas. Nowadays, tourists come for the beach, sailing and for the regional food (oysters in particular).
Access & Transport
There are regional trains (TER) from Bordeaux Gare Saint Jean to Arcachon station (located in the city centre). The ride takes exactly 1h. By car from Bordeaux, take the expressway A63 southbound and then the A660 towards La Teste. Coming from the south, head north on the A63 (tolls) and then the A660.
Instructions & Recommendations
Traffic really is an issue around Arcachon Bay so try to avoid the peak tourist season and long weekends (with public holidays) and try driving early morning rather than in the afternoons or evenings. For those in a leisurely or slow travel mood, there is enough to see and do to stay more than 1 day.
Environmental & Social
The area is quite built-up but, besides motorboats, the main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is the main source of revenues for the local economy, with the usual caveats relating to over-commercialization.
Conclusion
The town of Arcachon has everything going for it with beautiful natural surroundings, a pleasant beach and Bordeaux less than 60km away. In our opinion, there is no single highlight that makes it an unmissable destination, but it is an excellent option for 2-3 days of beach time with some exploration of the area and leisurely lunch and dinners.
Key positive
Safe beach for families
Some good shopping and restaurants
Plenty to discover around Arcachon Bay and the Dune du Pilat
Key negative
Traffic is a killer in peak season
Quite expensive to stay
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:7h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo