France’s second largest freshwater lake, bordered by pine trees, marinas and fine sand, Lac de Cazaux is a small, sheltered corner of the Arcachon Basin, some twenty kilometers from your campsite in Gironde. A peaceful spot surrounded by forest, where swimming, water sports, fishing, picnics and walks refresh summer days.
A wonderful base for families
Linked to the Bassin d’Arcachon by the Canal des Landes, Lac de Cazaux covers 5,800 hectares, making it France’s second largest freshwater lake afterHourtin-Carcans.
Renowned for its tranquility and popular with holidaymakers for its sandy beaches and wild coves, Lac de Cazaux is ideal for sailing, fishing and family bathing. To complete the picture, a number of restaurants stand alongside straw huts where you can have lunch or cool off with your feet in the sand.
A lively family lake with sandy beaches and wild coves
Protected from the wind by its forest, Lac de Cazaux has plenty to tempt holidaymakers: the water is soft and clear, with no waves, calmer and warmer than the ocean. You can walk quite a distance from the shore, which is very reassuring for small children. In summer, the beach is supervised, so you can swim in complete safety.
You can choose between Plage Laouga, Plage de La Gemeyre and a whole host of small, secluded sandy coves fringed by pine trees. It’s up to you to discover them! Around the lake, several sailing schools offer catamaran, windsurf, paddle and kayak rentals, with or without an instructor. For the less sporty, you can also take it easy on a pedalo.
Summer activities for the whole family give the beach a festive air: music, pétanque tournaments, volleyball, scuba diving, fireworks (August 15)…. In short, everything you need to have a wonderful time. And to top it all off, the sunsets are simply magnificent!
On the practical side, there’s disabled beach access, ample (free!) parking and shaded picnic tables. A short footpath leads along the lake in the pine forest. The road alongside the lake allows you to extend your walk as far as Biscarrosse.
Ideal for families… And fishermen!
Anglers also love Lac de Cazaux for its exceptional natural setting, where they can find excellent perch, carp, pike and roach… Boat fishing (boat, kayak, float-tube…) is permitted.
Did you know?
Certain parts of Lac de Cazaux are off-limits to visitors, as they are classified as military zones. Indeed, Base aérienne 120 “Commandant Marzac” is located just a stone’s throw from the village of Cazaux. So don’t be surprised to see fighter planes flying over the lake! Aerobatic training is a great spectacle, but it can be a nuisance for some.
Access: Take the route de la Teste (D112), towards Cazaux (south of the village).