Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat from Bordeaux: a day trip without a car

Lunch by the bay with oysters, then a climb up the Dune du Pilat at sunset: it is a beautiful day, but it quickly gets complicated by car, between summer traffic and parking. Here is how to organise it from Bordeaux, and why a driver makes everything simpler.

How long does it take to get there?

Arcachon is about an hour from Bordeaux by road in normal conditions, a little more at weekends and in summer. The Dune du Pilat is about twenty minutes from Arcachon. Allow more time if you leave late in the morning on a July Saturday: a margin saves you from rushing all day.

An itinerary for the day

• Morning, departure from Bordeaux. Your driver picks you up at your hotel, your address, the airport or Saint-Jean station.
• Late morning, Arcachon. A walk through the Winter Town, the seafront and the pier, or the market depending on the day.
• Lunch. A table in Arcachon or at an oyster farmer’s on the bay. Book ahead in season.
• Afternoon, the bay. Depending on the season, a boat trip or the crossing to Cap Ferret.
• End of the day, the Dune du Pilat. You climb on foot, in the sand: bring water and good shoes. The sunset is worth it.
• Back to Bordeaux. You return relaxed, without driving or looking for a parking space.

Why go with a driver

• No parking to find, which is often full near the dune and in the centre of Arcachon in summer.
• You enjoy the meal without wondering who will drive back.
• You keep your own pace: the driver drops you off and picks you up at the agreed time.
• Groups or families: our van takes up to 8 passengers.

The options

For a simple round trip, the price is given before departure. For a full day with several stops, a driver at your disposal is the most flexible option, on quote. See our services in English.

Our tips

1. Leave early in summer: roads and car parks fill up from late morning.
2. Book lunch in advance, especially at weekends.
3. Bring something warm for the evening: it quickly gets cool on the dune.
4. If you have a train or a flight the same evening, keep a margin for the return.

To ask for a price, use the booking form. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pick-up.