Cycling the Arcachon Bay: Oyster Villages and Pine Forests

Day 1: Arrival in Arcachon
You will arrive in Arcachon, the elegant seaside town born from the imagination of 19th-century pioneers who believed in the magic of ocean bathing. Stroll through the Winter Town with its sumptuous Second Empire villas, wander along the waterfront, and breathe in the salt air of the Bay.
Night and breakfast in hotel.

Day 2: Arcachon – Biganos – Andernos-les-Bains (25–30 km; +20 m)
You will take the train from Arcachon to Biganos, then begin your ride along the eastern shore of the Bay. The path leads past the Port des Tuiles and through the fish reservoirs of the Domaine de Certes, where migrating birds gather in impressive numbers. You will follow the dykes with splendid views over the water before gliding into Andernos-les-Bains, a charming seaside town with a lively waterfront.
Night and breakfast in hotel.

Day 3: Andernos-les-Bains – Le Grand Crohot – Andernos-les-Bains (37 km; +30 m)
You will pedal into the vast pine forest of Cap Ferret, where the scent of resin fills the warm air and cicadas provide the soundtrack. The route leads to the wild Atlantic beaches of Le Grand Crohot, where the ocean breaks in magnificent rollers. After a swim, you will ride back through the national forest, past the oyster port of Arès and the tranquil natural banks of Saint-Brice.
Night and breakfast in hotel.

Day 4: Andernos-les-Bains – Cap Ferret – Arcachon (30 km; +20 m)
You will ride along the peninsula to the hamlet of Jane de Boy and discover the famous oyster villages of L'Herbe and Canon, where nature is beautifully preserved. The panoramic views across the Bay to the Dune du Pilat and Bird Island are simply breathtaking. At Cap Ferret, you will board a boat to cross the Bay back to Arcachon, passing the sandbanks and the iconic wooden cabins on stilts.
Night and breakfast in hotel.

Day 5: Arcachon – Le Teich – Arcachon (40 km; +10 m)
You will cycle along the shore past the seven oyster ports of Gujan-Mestras, the capital of oyster farming, where flat-bottomed boats and colourful cabins line the channels. The route continues to Le Teich bird reserve, a haven for swans, grey herons, storks, and countless migrating species. The varied landscapes of forest, prairie, and lagoon make this a peaceful and memorable final ride.
Night and breakfast in hotel.

Day 6: Departure
Departure from Arcachon.