Skip to main content

Dune du Pilat Beach

Dune of Pilat is located at the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon

featured in Beaches Updated

Belonging to the coastal dunes of Aquitaine, it's a single dune that is always moving and is in fact the tallest sand dune in Europe.

Between ocean and forest, it moves from between one and five metres towards the east per year under the influence of prevailing winds and tides, gradually covering the adjoining forest.

Consisting of about 60million m3 of sand, the Dune du Pilat measures between 100 - 115m high, depending on the year. The dune is 2.7km in length and 500m wide.

There is an information point where you can discover more about the area which also hosts free events and exhibitions and offers guided tours. A picnic area with benches, water fountains and litter bins is also available.

During the summer months from April until early November there is also a staircase (160 steps) installed to allow easier access to the summit.

Access to the dune is free. You can park here but parking is paid.

The reception area is available for people with reduced mobility. There are eight disabled parking spaces, toilets, a reception building and tourist information which have all been adapted for disabled access.

Location

Map of the surrounding area

News

  • La Bataille de Castillon

    July in Bordeaux: What's on and weather

  • Ky-Mani Marley at Nuits du Sud, Vence

    August in Bordeaux: What's on and weather

  • outdoor music concert in bordeaux

    September in Bordeaux: What's on and weather

  • Estivales du Rhone, Avignon

    June in Bordeaux: What's on and weather

  • the ocean waves at l'horizon beach cap ferret

    Best bathing spots in Bordeaux

Events

  • Dansons sur les Quais dance event, City of Bordeaux

    Dansons sur les Quais dance event, Bordeaux

  • Les Estivales de Musique en Medoc

    Les Estivales de Musique en Médoc

  • La Bataille de Castillon

    La Bataille de Castillon

  • Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion, Saint Emilion

    Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion

  • town square with market stalls

    Markets in the Bordeaux region

  • Reggae Sun Ska Festival, Bordeaux

    Reggae SunSka Festival, Bordeaux