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HomeRoad TripsEuropeWest EuropeFranceBay of Arcachon Panoramic Road
File:DunePyla.JPG - Wikipedia

Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road

Cap Ferret - Arcachon - Biscarrosse

Expect on your itinerary

Comfort Comfort
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Security Security
Beach Beach
Road conditions Road conditions
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road ACTIVATE MAP Stages2 km105 h/stage1.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road in France?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 45EUR drive & more 13EUR sleep & more 77EUR eat & more 96EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 186EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 231EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 63EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 132EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 301EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 364EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 126EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 209EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 426EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 552EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 225EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 55EUR eat & more 96EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 176EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 401EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road Itinerary

The Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road is a scenic route that takes travelers from the seaside town of Cap Ferret in France to the town of Biscarrosse, also in France. Covering a distance of 104km, the route is best enjoyed in one day and is best experienced in the warmer months of the year. The route takes travelers through the beautiful coastal town of Arcachon, with its stunning beaches and breathtaking views of the bay. Along the way, travelers will be treated to lush countryside, quaint fishing villages, and a variety of natural attractions. The roads, while partly narrow in places, are generally in good condition and make for an enjoyable journey. This road trip provides a very high level of experience and memories, and is suitable for all drivers. However, it should be noted that it can be managed on a high budget only. If you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, then this is the perfect choice.
number of days 1 number of days
route length 105 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Cap Ferret

Distance 105 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: slow 24.2 kWh Airports BOD
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Cap Ferret, located on the Atlantic coast of France, is the perfect starting point for the Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road. This picturesque village is the ideal place to begin your journey around the stunning Bay of Arcachon, with its stunning beaches and rolling dunes. The best way to explore the area is by car, as there are plenty of car rental services available at Bordeaux-Merignac International Airport (BOD). A short drive from the airport will take you to the charming village of Cap Ferret. Once you arrive in Cap Ferret, be sure to visit the lighthouse and the stunning beaches. There is also the renowned seafood market, where you can sample the locally caught seafood. Cap Ferret is also home to the famous Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe. This awe-inspiring sight is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the bay. The nearby oyster farms are also worth a visit, where you can try the delicious local seafood. Cap Ferret is the perfect place to start your journey around the Bay of Arcachon. With its stunning beaches, lighthouse, and oyster farms, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to take advantage of the car rental services available at Bordeaux-Merignac International Airport (BOD) so you can explore this beautiful area at your own pace.

1 Cap Ferret - Arcachon

Distance 66 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: slow 15.1 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road attractive landscape accommodation options junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip through the French Atlantic Coast! Starting in Cap Ferret, you will drive 65 km in less than two hours to reach Andernos les Bains. Along the way, take in the stunning views of the countryside and be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and picturesque landscapes. The road will be narrow in sections, so keep your eyes on the road! Once you arrive in Andernos les Bains, take a break and explore this charming town. Finally, the road will take you to Arcachon, the final destination of this stage of your journey. Here, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

2 Arcachon - Biscarrosse

Distance 40 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: slow 9.1 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road accommodation options junction of road trips attractive landscape camping sites
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Start your journey in Arcachon, France, and take a 39km drive to Pyla sur Mer. Along the way, be sure to take in the stunning scenery of the road, with its narrow sections winding through the countryside. You'll reach Pyla sur Mer in less than an hour. Here you can explore the beaches, dunes, and forests, as well as the famous Pyla Dune, the tallest sand dune in Europe. From here, you'll continue your journey to Biscarrosse, where you can find the beautiful Lake Biscarrosse and the nearby Biscarrosse-Plage. Don't forget to check out the nearby Biscarrosse Zoo for a fun day out! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

  Biscarrosse

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Biscarrosse, located in the South of France, is the perfect ending point of a road trip named "Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road". This small town offers plenty of interesting things to do. The main attraction of Biscarrosse is its long sandy beach, which stretches 8 km along the Atlantic Coast. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and even kitesurfing. There are also several other beaches nearby, such as the beaches of Parentis-en-Born and Vieux-Boucau. The town is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Jardin des Oiseaux, a bird-watching park with a variety of exotic species. There are also several historical monuments, including the 16th-century Château de Biscarrosse. The closest international airport to Biscarrosse is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), located about 90 km away. From there, you can rent a car and take the scenic drive to the Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road, ending in Biscarrosse. In Biscarrosse, you can enjoy the local cuisine, explore the surrounding nature, and relax on the beach. With its beautiful beaches, picturesque parks, and historical monuments, Biscarrosse is the perfect place to end your journey along the Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road.

Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road at a glance

Before you set off

The scenic Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road stretches 104km along the southwest coast of France, from the quaint Cap Ferret to the vibrant town of Biscarrosse. This coastal route is an exceptional choice for a day Trip, offering travelers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, idyllic villages, and diverse natural environments including pine forests and sand dunes.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Cap Ferret: This tranquil peninsula is not only known for its iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views but also for its oyster farms and chic atmosphere. Visitors can relish in the serene ambiance of its beaches, which are considered some of the most beautiful along the Atlantic coast.
  • Arcachon: A sophisticated town known for its Belle Époque architecture, Arcachon also boasts the incredible Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe reaching up to 110 meters in height. It provides a unique natural spectacle and panoramic vistas of the surrounding Landes forest, the Atlantic Ocean, and the inlet of the bay.
  • Biscarrosse: This area is renowned for its extensive sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation or engaging in a variety of water sports. Biscarrosse is also famous for its lakes, making it a haven for those interested in fishing, boating, or swimming in calmer waters.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time to embark on this coastal journey is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the weather allows for the full enjoyment of the beachside activities and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak.

Potential Risks:

  • Some stretches of the Road may be narrow and winding, which calls for careful driving.
  • Be prepared for potentially high expenses, as the region is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • The Bay of Arcachon is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, as it is a key stopover point for migratory birds.
  • The area around the bay is renowned for its oyster cultivation, and visitors can indulge in fresh oysters and seafood.
  • The Road conditions along this route are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.
  • The panoramic Road caters to drivers of all skill levels, with many opportunities to stop and savor the local culture and scenery.
  • It's advisable to plan for regular stops to immerse in the diverse experiences available, from tasting regional culinary delights to exploring hidden coves and nature reserves.

A good choice for:

The Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road offers an enchanting escape for those who seek a memorable Road Trip filled with stunning landscapes and cultural richness. While budgeting for the Trip is important, the experiences and sights that await are truly priceless.

Facts for safer driving in France

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 90 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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