Day Trip to Arcachon Bay and the Majestic Dune of Pilat

Explore Arcachon, Climb the Dune du Pilat, and Taste the Bay’s Famous Oysters

Escape the bustle of Bordeaux and breathe in the Atlantic air on this full-day private tour to Arcachon Bay, a beloved seaside retreat just an hour away. From its golden beaches and 19th-century villas to its celebrated oyster farms and towering sand dunes, Arcachon is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and coastal charm.

Travel in comfort with your English-speaking guide as you journey through pine forests to reach the historic town of Arcachon, known for its belle époque architecture and serene atmosphere. On arrival, explore the authentic oyster sheds along the waterfront and enjoy a tasting of fresh local oysters paired with a crisp white wine, an experience any seafood lover will cherish.

Enjoy a relaxed seaside lunch at a local seafood restaurant, where your guide can recommend some of the best tables with sweeping views over the bay.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to climb the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Take the chance to ascend the 170 steps to the summit and take in breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding pine forests. Otherwise, you can choose to set sail on a private “Pinasse” boat tour, the traditional wooden vessel of the bay. Cruise past oyster farms, Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island), and the whimsical Tchanqué huts, with the option to add a picnic and more oyster tasting onboard.

Return to Bordeaux in the late afternoon with the fresh scent of the sea in your memory and the taste of Arcachon on your palate.