Arcachon

Overview of Arcachon

Arcachon is the premier seaside resort of its namesake basin and its largest locality. Renowned for over a century, it features elegant villas and fisherman’s cottages set against a backdrop of pine forests.

Key facts

• Type de lieu: small town.

• Intérêt touristique: ★★ (worth seeing).

• Localisation: in Gironde, on the southern shore of its namesake basin.

• Distances: Bayonne (185 km), Bordeaux (72 km).

• Heure locale: Heure : Arcachon.

• Population: 10,370 inhabitants (2014).

• Superficie: 7.6 km².

• Altitude: sea level.

• Site internet: http://www.arcachon.com

History of Arcachon

What to see and do in Arcachon

Arcachon Mariners' Chapel ★★
This is a place of worship whose walls are covered with ex-votos from sailors saved from the waters.

Winter Town ★★
Perched on the heights, it is home to opulent late 19th-century residences, nestled in greenery and typical of the seaside architecture of that era. In the same style, the Château Deganne (mid-19th century) now houses the town’s casino and convention centre.

In the surrounding area

Arcachon Basin ★★★★
One of the main attractions of Aquitaine, featuring its small seaside resorts, the Île aux Oiseaux, the Dune of Pyla, and the Teich Ornithological Park.

Climate and weather in Arcachon

Arcachon and the Basin enjoy a mild climate with significant sunshine throughout the year. Winters are rainy but rarely harsh, sometimes bringing violent storms. Summers are dry and warm, though rarely scorching (thanks to the wind and sea), with occasional fierce thunderstorms rolling in from the Bay of Biscay.

Sea temperatures throughout the year

Transport

Getting there

Getting around

Accommodation

Food

Useful addresses

Further information