Explore holidays in Cap Ferret & The Arcachon Bay
Chic Cap Ferret alone would be enough to satisfy the most discerning beach seeker, but there’s so much more to unwrap. An afternoon wandering the enchanting oyster villages, marvelling at the opulence of Arcachon’s Ville d’Hiver or treating little ones to an afternoon at the aquapark make this a uniquely unforgettable holiday experience. Take in a sunrise from the top of the magnificent Dune du Pilat or add a boat trip around the bay and the routine of normal life will seem far, far away.
Visit our collection of handpicked villas in Cap Ferret and Arcachon Bay to complete your luxury holiday on the Aquitaine Coast.
A selection of our holidays in Cap Ferret & The Arcachon Bay
*Prices shown are for a seven-night stay at the lowest accommodation-only rate
Our guide to Cap Ferret & The Arcachon Bay
Overview
Introduction to Cap Ferret & The Arcachon Bay
The lie of the land
The Cap Ferret Peninsula is the epitome of carefree elegance, from its quaint oyster-farming villages to chic Cap Ferret village – and with all the unspoilt coastlines and fragrant pine forests in between. On its west side, a 22km sweep of pale golden sand catches the tumbling surf of the Atlantic, whilst its east coast, with more inviting beaches to explore, forms one side of the triangular-shaped Bassin d’Arcachon: a large tidal bay famous for its oyster beds. Arcachon swells out into the base of this triangle, a sprawling town that blossomed in the 19th century under the appreciative eye of Napoleon III who fell in love with it. Two wheel transport is by far the best way to get around; there are hire shops everywhere, and the slower pace adds to the wonderfully relaxed feel that pervades the entire area.
Two sides of the sea
At low tide, the Bassin d’Arcachon is reduced to just a quarter of its original volume and, as the waters recede, they reveal an expanse of tranquil sand banks, mud flats and salt meadows, where boats lie quietly slumbering on their sides, migratory sea birds like itinerant dreams floating above them. The beaches around the bassin are perfect for little ones. They have none of the white horses of the Atlantic coast, although even on the peninsula’s wilder side, when the tide goes out, it often leaves shallow lagoons perfect for paddling. And wherever you lay your towel, east or west, the sand is as smooth as silk.
A delicacy that changes everything
Without oysters, the Cap Ferret peninsula could be considered just another upmarket beach destination, but with them, it stands apart. From humble beginnings in the 1860s, the local oyster farms now produce up to 10,000 tonnes a year and villages ostréicoles such as Claouey, L’Herbe and Le Canon grew up to accommodate the farmers, their families – and curious visitors. Their narrow streets invite exploration: tiny wooden cottages sitting shoulder to shoulder, terraces draped with vines and bougainvillea, and, between them, glimpses of blue sea and the spindly wooden stakes marking out the oyster beds. And there are plenty of opportunities for dégustation (tastings) too, with views across the bay.
The City of Four Seasons
Founded by imperial decree in 1857, Arcachon soon became a wellbeing centre for the well-to-do, thanks to its therapeutic, pine-scented air, 7km of lovely beaches (including the much-photographed Pereire) and the glitterati’s new-found fondness for sea swimming – and, as it grew, it evolved into four distinct areas. The aptly named Spring Town is home to the source of Abatilles mineral water and Autumn Town, made up of Saint-Ferdinand and Aiguillon, is best known for yachting and fishing. But it’s La Ville d’Éte (Summer Town) embracing the seafront and newly-rebuilt town centre, and La Ville d’Hiver, an opulent architectural showcase of immaculate villas, that will vie for your attention.
For tots, teens and in betweens
The coast is a playground that starts with sandcastles and vintage carousels and ends with surfing lessons. There are beach clubs too, such as Cap Ferret’s Club Mickey du Phare, with trampolines and supervised fun for ages three to 12. A gentle bike ride through pine forests with a picnic is everything a family holiday should be or rest your legs and take the ‘little trains’ of Cap Ferret and Arcachon. The local tourist offices are excellent with special rates when you book through them, making attractions such as the Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon, the waterslides of Aqualand or the Bassin Aventures adventure park even more appealing.
