The highest dune in Europe
On the edge of the Landes de Gascogne forest on the Silver coast, at the entrance of the Arcachon basin in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is located the highest dune in Europe.
With its 110 meters high and 3 kilometers long, the dune is an exceptional natural monument which is among the most beautiful and most visited natural sites in France.
A unique landscape
Once you reach the summit, you will discover a breathtaking view!
You can admire the Banc d’Arguin nature reserve, the forest and the tip of Cap Ferret.
While strolling around, you will discover endemic plants such as « the immortal of the sands » which perfume the ambient air.
Pilat, pila or pyla… What is the correct spelling?
In all official documents, we find the spelling « pilat ». However, we still see a lot the word « pyla », which is used both in France and abroad.
« Pilat » is derived from the Gascon word « pilàt » whose meaning is « pile ». The Pyla sur Mer seaside resort, created in 1920, adjoins the north of the dune. This proximity is undoubtedly at the origin of the use of the name Dune du Pyla.
When driving towards the Arcachon basin, you will see panels indicating the direction of the Dune du Pilat and the Dune du Pyla. It is even possible to find the name « Dune de Pyla ».
You can also find Pila or Pylat on the internet.
But the official name is Dune du Pilat.
Free entertainments on the dune
- Commented walks of the Grand Site (duration: 1 hour). At dusk, join a nature animator and attend a magical and ephemeral show where the colors change at every moment.
- Guided hikes on the Dune du Pilat and the Banc d’Arguin (duration: 1 day). Set off for the day to explore the Dune du Pilat and the Banc d’Arguin. A beautiful hike awaits you! Bring your picnic.
- Interpretation trail: This trail invites you to discover the Grand Site with another look, during a walk on the forest edge to discover its ecosystem. (in autonomy)
- This reception aims at informing visitors about the dune and its characteristics, and to allow the observation of the many components of its landscape thanks to a longview.
- Permanent exhibition « The hidden face of the dune »: Discover the exhibition « The hidden face of the dune » which traces to the dune evolution and its hidden treasures full of history.
How to get there?
- By car :
A63 –> Bayonne or A63 –> Bordeaux
A660 –> Arcachon
N250 –> La Teste de Buch
D259 –> Dune du Pilat
- By train :
TGV or TER to go to Arcachon and then take the bus
Train Bordeaux-Arcachon
or TGV Paris-Arcachon (direct ride: 2h48)
Bus Arcachon station-Dune du Pilat (Line 1)
- By plane :
Bordeaux airport
Shuttle to Bordeaux St Jean station, TGV or TER to Arcachon
More information on the official website: https://www.ladunedupilat.com/