This incredible European coastal town south of Bordeaux in France is home to immaculate beaches, Europe’s highest sand dune and a beloved annual oyster festival
Jetting off on holiday offers a blissful escape from the daily grind, and nothing beats the thrill of discovering new places. Tourist hotspots often dominate travel wish lists, but sometimes it’s the lesser-known treasures that truly captivate. This incredible European coastal town is said to be totally worth a visit – and not many people know about it.
Tucked away just south of Bordeaux on the French coast lies an enchanting seaside haven. Arcachon Bay, nestled in Pays de Buch between the Côte d’Argent and the Côte des Landes in Aquitaine, is a stunning coastal town boasting jaw-dropping scenery, pristine beaches and a touch of coastal elegance.
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The Bay is a true gem of France’s natural and cultural heritage, home to by oyster ports and a famous dune. The 10 towns and villages that make it up – Arcachon, La Teste-de-Buch, Gujan-Mestras, Le Teich, Biganos, Audenge, Lanton, Andernos-les-Bains, Arès and Lège-Cap Ferret – offer a wealth of diverse experiences.
Arcachon Bay in particular is shaped by fishing and oyster farming. Some of the finest oysters can be enjoyed in this region, which also hosts its very own Oyster Festival each summer.
The town is brimming with activities, whether you fancy jet skiing, kayaking, cycling, or zipping around on an electric scooter. Shoppers will be charmed by quaint independent boutiques, while foodies can indulge in the delightful local cuisine.
Visitors are also drawn to the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dune, for an unforgettable experience, reports the Express. London-based travel blogger Anna recently explored this gem and was utterly enchanted.
In her TikTok video, Anna showcases the allure of Arcachon, describing it as: “A French coastal town you probably haven’t heard of…but you absolutely have to add to your bucket list…Arcachon.”
She further expressed her love for the town, saying: “This is such a charming town.”
One commenter wrote: “Going in May, we stayed there last year and loved it! PS you can’t take dogs on the beach.” “I was there a few years ago and it is so pretty,” added another commenter. “Adding to my list to visit,” declared another user.
Another TikToker user seconded Anna’s assessment: “I was there in summer, insanely beautiful”. One other visitor also highly recommended a stop at the Dune du Pilat, describing it as “something special”.
How to reach Arcachon
According to Trainline, you can get a high-speed train from London to Arcachon in as little as 6 hours and 6 minutes on the fastest services from Eurostar, Ouigo and TGV.
Alternatively, you can catch a flight to Bordeaux Airport. From there, it’s roughly an hour’s drive to Arcachon. You also have the option to catch a train from the airport which takes approximately an hour and a half.