Walks Around the Villa
For our guests, everything at the Villa is designed so that you do not need a car during your stay. Whether you arrive by train, car or plane, cycling is undoubtedly the best way to explore and get around Arcachon Bay.
Here are a few ideas for walks and bike rides around the Villa.
Architectural Walk Around Le Moulleau – 1 hour on foot
From the Villa, set off to discover the charming neighbourhood of Le Moulleau. Walk to Notre-Dame-des-Passes Church and its pleasant square, then head down towards the jetty and the beach. Several remarkable villas, clearly visible from the beach along the seafront, are well worth seeing: Casa Sylva, Kypris and Thetys (designed by architect Roger-Henri Expert in the 1930s), Saint-Dominique (where Gabriele d’Annunzio stayed between 1910 and 1915), as well as Babord and Tribord, two distinctive twin villas.
Dune du Pilat & La Co(o)rniche – 2 hours by bike
Set off by bike from the Villa and follow the cycle path towards Pyla. Along the way, you will pass the iconic Ha(a)ïtza and La Co(o)rniche, both designed by Philippe Starck. Around 300 metres after La Co(o)rniche, leave your bike at the foot of the Dune du Pilat and continue on foot. Once at the top (approximately a 15-minute climb), enjoy an exceptional panoramic view over the Banc d’Arguin, Cap Ferret, the Atlantic Ocean and the channels leading into the Bay. On your way back, stop at La Co(o)rniche or Ha(a)ïtza for a drink.
La Ville d’Hiver – 2 hours by bike
Discover one of Arcachon’s most iconic neighbourhoods, famous for its magnificent 19th-century villas. Wander through its leafy streets to Parc Mauresque, then continue towards the Sainte-Cécile Observatory and enjoy a 360° view over Arcachon Bay (ideally at high tide). A delightful ride combining architecture, history and lush vegetation. Villas particularly worth seeing include Alexandre Dumas, Toledo, Trocadéro, Saint-Dominique, Térésa and Brémontier.
Arcachon Town Centre & Seafront – 2 hours by bike
Follow the cycle path towards the centre of Arcachon. As you ride along the Bay, discover Casa Sylva (the largest property on the seafront, designed by architect Roger Expert), Pereire Beach and enjoy magnificent views across to Cap Ferret. Continue through the pedestrian streets of the town centre and discover Arcachon’s lively market, particularly bustling in the morning. Then head towards the seafront, with its 19th-century Thiers Jetty, its “Deauville-style” boardwalk and the landing area for traditional sailing ships at the harbour. Continue along the beach towards the Aiguillon neighbourhood. On your way back, stop for a drink at one of the many seafront terraces.
Arcachon & La Teste Oyster-Farming Villages – 2 hours by bike
Follow the cycle path towards the Arcachon equestrian centre. Pass by the foot of the former ski slope (which once used pine needles instead of snow!) and continue towards the Aiguillon neighbourhood and its oyster-farming village. Crossing the salt marshes, you will discover a natural landscape typical of Arcachon Bay, leading you towards the port of La Teste. An ideal opportunity to enjoy an oyster tasting at one of the many local oyster farms. The route offers a lovely contrast with Arcachon’s beaches and provides an authentic insight into the world of traditional oyster huts and oyster farming.
Tour of Arcachon Bay – Full day by bike (70 km)
For the more athletic, set off on a full-day cycling adventure around Arcachon Bay. The route takes you successively through La Teste-de-Buch, Gujan-Mestras, Le Teich, Audenge, Lanton, Andernos-les-Bains, Arès and finally Lège-Cap-Ferret. Finish your tour on one of Cap Ferret’s terraces before taking the maritime shuttle back to Le Moulleau. Allow a full day and plan several stops along the way to enjoy the oyster-farming ports and charming villages.