Just 20 km as the crow flies from the campsite, nestled in the middle of the Bassin d’Arcachon, the Banc d’Arguin is a stunning lagoon-like sand island, 4 km long and 2 km wide at low tide. To go there is to find yourself at the end of the world, away from the hustle and bustle of the Dune du Pilat and the bustle of Cap-Ferret.
How do I get to the Banc d’Arguin?
The Banc d’Arguin is located between the Dune du Pilat and the tip of Cap-Ferret. There’s no easy way to get there: take a boat. You can choose between the pinasse, emblematic of the Bassin d’Arcachon; the comfortable barge, the oyster boat par excellence; the water cab for those in a hurry; or the maritime shuttle departing from the Thiers jetty in Arcachon or Cap Ferret.
What to do on the Banc d’Arguin?
Classified as a national nature reserve since 1972, the Banc d’Arguin will delight nature lovers and budding ornithologists in particular. In the sky, the birds follow closely the paragliders flying over the Dune du Pilat. And with good reason: the Banc d’Arguin is located on one of the world’s largest migratory corridors. It is also a major breeding site for many species, including the common tern, the oystercatcher and the ring-necked grebe.
In July and August, guided tours (every Wednesday afternoon) and guided walks with a naturalist guide enable you to observe birds with a spyglass. It’s also an opportunity to discover the secrets of the basin’s flora and fauna. See you at the exhibition hut!
If you’re looking for sun and relaxation, take advantage of your camping holiday on the Banc d’Arguin to organize a “beach & picnic” day. Imagine swimming in turquoise waters reminiscent of Polynesian atolls, against the backdrop of Dune du Pilat, Europe’s highest dune. Simply pa-ra-di-siaque! A word of advice for the road: don’t forget your cap and tube of sun cream, as the sun beats down hard during the hottest hours of the summer, with no trees to provide shade!
After a swim, spread out the tablecloth and lay back on the warm sand to share a picnic with family and friends in an idyllic setting. Then, lulled by the melody of the waves and caressed by a gentle sea breeze, you can enjoy a little siesta before getting back on the boat. If you remember the film “Les petits mouchoirs”, you’ll have the images in your head! So please leave the beach as you found it. The Banc d’Arguin is a fragile natural site that needs to be protected.
Did you know?
The Banc d’Arguin is constantly changing shape and moving with the winds, tides and currents.
photo : © JM Planchon