Southern Atlantic Coast

The Bassin d’Arcachon is unique: a protected area running from the giant Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, at one end to Cap Ferret at the other. Its entrance is marked by the ever-changing Arguin Sandbank and at its heart lie the Île aux Oiseaux with its characteristic wooden huts built on stilts and acres of oyster beds. On shore, explore the architectural splendours of the Ville d’Hiver and the restaurants, boutiques of this elegant seaside town, or take a drive around the Bassin, sampling the local oysters, crabs and grilled fish in the picturesque oyster farming villages as you go. And whatever you do, don’t forget the never-ending pine-fringed beaches.