Camping near the Dune du Pilat
Located 100 km from the Dune du Pilat, our campsite in Hourtin will help you organize your excursion to this exceptional natural site. From guided hikes in the Arcachon Basin to a romantic sunset overlooking the Côté d’Argent and the Landes de Gascogne, here’s what you need to know about this neo-Aquitaine tourist mecca.
Set course for Europe’s highest dune
La Test-de Buch: seaside resort on the Dune du Pilat
Do you know the Dune du Pilat? No ? Then make the most of your camping vacation in Gironde to discover this natural wonder. It’s a 2-hour drive from our 4-star campsite, heading south on the A10 freeway. More precisely, the Great Dune of Pilat is located in the commune of La Teste de Buch, at the entrance to the Arcachon Basin. It borders the Landes de Gascogne forest and the Atlantic on the Côte d’Argent.
You can cycle from the campsite to Hourtin-Port and discover the beautiful beaches of the port, the Plage de la Banane and also the beaches of Lac d’Hourtin. Surfing and kayaking are widespread in the region.
A sand hill 110 m high
The Dune du Pilat is one of the must-see sites in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, a veritable little desert of exceptional sand. This jewel of the Atlantic coastline covers an area of more than 6,800 hectares, with an altitude of 110.9 meters. In fact, it is the highest dune in Europe. Thanks to this reputation, the Great Dune of Pilat represents an unrivalled tourist attraction for the Gironde department. This asymmetrical natural monument has a gentle slope on the ocean side and a steep slope on the forest side. Between the waves of the Atlantic and the pines of the Gascony moors, it moves 1 to 5 m per year eastwards under the influence of prevailing winds and tides.
Landes traditions and nature walks on the Dune du Pilat
Take advantage of your vacation in Hourtin to discover the dunes and the Arcachon Basin on foot, accompanied by local enthusiasts:
- gemmage (resin harvesting) demonstration by Christian in Lanton
- stroll along the banks of the Leyre with Jean, “raconteur de Pays”.
- walk around the Certes/Graveyron estates
Information and reservations at these 2 tourist offices: Le Teich and Coeur du Bassin
Come and admire this exceptional site shaped by erosion. In fact, over the centuries, the piles of sand grains have been transformed into an immense dune. The walk promises to be a fun one, with young and old alike able to run and play with the sand, then climb to the highest point for a panoramic view of the Atlantic, the Arcachon Basin and the forest massif. Take advantage of this height to have your photo taken as a souvenir of your vacation. Afterwards, take a refreshing break on the beach.
A preserved natural site
The Dune du Pilat is the subject of a preservation program designed to offer you exceptional family outings whatever the season. Its asymmetrical shape gives you a unique view of the ocean and the magnificent greenery that adorns the site. It’s a magical place, perfect for admiring the sunset with your partner, family or friends.
Breathtaking scenery in Gironde
The surrounding landscapes promise a complete change of scenery. The forest is home to exceptional flora and fauna, and you can enjoy a short hike for the whole family. The Dune du Pilat is also an ideal place to try your hand at paragliding. Why not take advantage of this unforgettable experience? You’re sure to love discovering this magnificent panorama from the air!
Sunset on the Dune du Pilat
You can also enjoy a guided tour, during which an experienced guide will reveal the secrets of this exceptional site. What’s more, the tour is free, and you can choose your time of day or sunset. Stay until dusk to enjoy the magical spectacle of nature’s colors. A variety of games and events are on offer all year round, including a treasure hunt, a game of goose, the Fête de la nature, the exhibition “La face cachée de la dune” (“The hidden face of the dune”) and many others.
Things to do in Pilat during your vacation in Hourtin
The area around the Grande Dune du Pilat is ideal for ecotourism. Visit the natural sites of the Bassin d’Arcachon-Val de L’Eyre, the natural spaces of the Gironde and other emblematic sites of the department not far from your vacation rental.