The Banc d’Arguin, a natural paradise to discover

The Banc d’Arguin Nature Reserve is one of the nuggets of the Arcachon Basin. Located just 30 km from our Au Lac de Biscarrosse campsite, this site is a must for nature lovers and holidaymakers alike.

Banc d’Arguin, white sand and translucent water

Located south of the commune of La Teste-de-Buch, the Banc d’Arguin is a sandbank stretching the length of the Bay of Arcachon. Wind, currents and tides periodically alter its location and dimensions. There’s no other way to get there than by boat. Depart from Lège-Cap-Ferret for a twenty-minute stroll, or from Arcachon’s Thiers jetty for a one-hour excursion. If you’ re a boating enthusiast, you can also hire a boat and cruise for as long as you like. Once you’ve reached the Banc d’Arguin, opposite the Dune du Pilat, you’ll realize just how unusual this magnificent site is. Your visit is an opportunity to take a relaxing break and dive into the crystal-clear azure waters. In the peace and quiet, you can watch paragliders soar over the Dune du Pilat while your toddlers go shell hunting.

An exceptionally well-preserved ornithological site

Both sublime and authentic, the Banc d’Arguin is a place that protects wild birds and their nesting. In spring and summer, you may come across seabirds such as the black-headed and black-legged tern, or shore waders like the oystercatcher. The Sepanso, an association working to protect the environment, keeps a watchful eye on the Banc d’Arguin. It is therefore forbidden to bivouac there or walk your dog. Volunteers are on hand to provide information during the summer season, and offer free tours of the reserve every Wednesday afternoon. They also offer you the chance to contemplate the birds by going to the exhibition hut.