Cap Ferret
The most southerly tip of the Lège-Cap-Ferret peninsula
This 'spit' separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Arcachon bay and basin. Best known perhaps for its lighthouse, it's also an upmarket resort with many of France's rich and famous having holiday homes here.
The area is accessible either by road from the north or by a passenger ferry from Arcachon. Still very much a holiday resort for high French society, it's a trendy destination for summer holidays and great place for people watching.
Between sea and forest, there are plenty of hiking trails, bike paths and villages to explore.
On the west coast of the peninsula, sheltered by dunes, the ocean beaches run along a stretch of around 25km. The waves provide the show here!
And on the east coastline there are 15km of beaches, punctuated here and there by small coves, harbours and oyster villages, bordering the Bay of Arcachon.
If you love swimming, sailing, rowing and kayaking, then you are sure to be at home here.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
One of the most spectacular views in Cap-Ferret is from the top of the lighthouse, a mere 258 steps up and it will take your breath away...quite literally.
Slightly north of Cap-Ferret town itself on the Arcachon Bay coast is the some town of l'Herbe, and here you will find the bizarre but beautiful La Chapelle de la Villa Algérienne, a Moorish-style catholic church.
Sights in Bordeaux
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Place des Quinconces Square, City of Bordeaux
Situated in approximately 31 acres, the Place des Quinconces is in the heart of the city of Bordeaux at the edge of river Garonne.
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Musee d'Aquitaine
This excellent museum recounts the history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region from prehistoric times through to the 20th century.
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Musee des Douanes, Bordeaux
Sitting on the stunning Place de la Bourse, the museum of customs is located in the former customs house and presents the history of the customs administration.
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Grotte Celestine Cave, Rauzan
These limestone caves run under the town of Rauzan and feature an underground river which has had many uses over the last two centuries.
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Museum of Art and Archeology, Soulac-sur-Mer
A great place to get to grips with the history and modern culture of the area in one hit. Well laid out and a great space for a family trip.
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Memorial de la Fortresse du Nord Medoc Museum
The association "Memorial de la Forteresse du Nord-Medoc" wants to remember to future generations the history of men during the Second World War, and the efforts of French forces to destroy this German fortress.
Beaches in [locality]
This area is blessed with having both ocean front beaches with incredible surf and dramatic waves, plus on the east coast the tranquil beaches and waters of the Arcachon Bay.
Beaches in Bordeaux
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Plage Oceane de l'Horizon Beach
This beach is actually supervised during the busy summer months, although you will find that most of the Atlantic beaches are not.
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Plage du Moulleau Beach, Arcachon
This area offers great views further down the west coast to the nature reserve of banc d'Arguin and the Great Dune of Pyla.
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Plage des Abatilles Beach, Arcachon
A wide walkway and promenade borders this beautiful beach. There are numerous things to do including games for children, surfing, beach volleyball and of course it's a great setting near the doors to the Atlantic ocean.
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Plage Pereire Beach, Arcachon
This is by far the largest and better known of the Arcachon beaches, stretching some 3km in length with wonderful views over to the chic town of Cap-Ferret and the peninsula beaches.
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Dune du Pilat Beach
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.
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Plage d'Arcachon Beach, Arcahon
An 800m strip of white sand situated between the Theirs and Eyrac piers this beach is very much in the Arcachon basin and sheltered from the strong Altlantic winds on the coast.
Dining in [locality]
As you can imagine there are a whole host of seafood restaurants along the coast, however there are a few that really stand out and that are a 'must visit' if you're in the area.
Restaurants in Bordeaux
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Hostellerie de Plaisance Restaurant, Saint Emilion
This elegant and sophisticated two Michelin star restaurant offers creative dishes designed by chef Cédric Béchade, who plays with colours and textures in his cuisine.
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Le Pressoir d'Argent Restaurant
Situated in the luxurious surroundings of Le Grand Hotel de Bordeaux, this restaurant offers diners an elegant yet intimate restaurant styled in a palette of mauve and orange with a handcrafted marquetry floor.
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La Grand'Vigne Restaurant, Martillac
Chef Nicolas Masse offers in this restaurant a combination of traditional French cuisine, made with fresh seasonal ingredients from the southwest sourced from local producers, with unusual influences from all around the world. His creations can be paired with a large selection of wines, by the counsel of head sommelier Aurélien Farouil.
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Pierre Gagnaire Restaurant
Situated in a gorgeous white stone townhouse built in the classical style of the late 19th century, this restaurant is part of the joint project of Bernard Magrez, owner of various wineries in the Bordeaux area, and Pierre Gagnaire.
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Chateau de Sanse Restaurant, Sainte-Radegonde
This restaurant is located in the Chateau de Sanse, a beautiful hotel among the vineyards. They serve modern French cuisine in their elegant dining room which has stunning panoramic views of the countryside thanks to its high standpoint.
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Le Bistrot d'Aurelie Restaurant
This restaurant offers a choice of traditional French dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Its modern decor provides a warm atmosphere.
Events in [locality]
The best time to visit Cap Ferret is on Wednesdays and Saturdays as markets are held on these days all through the year.
Seasonal markets also take place in the smaller villages of Piraillan and Claouey every day during the summer months.
Events in Bordeaux
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Markets in the Bordeaux region
Read our guide to Bordeaux markets page to find out which market to visit when. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a typical French market is an absolute must for anyone exploring everything French.
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Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc
Every September, runners gather for the Médoc marathon which winds its way through over 50 vineyards of this special region.
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Climax Festival
Bringing together music, urban cultures and issues around climate change, this festival aims to bring together people from different sectors of Bordeaux for a truly unique set of events.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Bordeaux, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion
The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.
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Ban des Vendanges, Jurade de Saint Emilion
The Autumn festival in Saint-Emilion celebrates the wine and heritage of this medieval city. The 'Jurade' are the Saint-Emilion wine brotherhood who historically had administrative rights over the town. As part of the festival they parade through the town in their traditional crimson robes, reminiscent of the all-powerful aldermen of centuries past.
Things to do in [locality]
A trip over to the west coast to see the Atlantic Ocean is a must whilst you're on this small peninsula. The waves here are a sight to behold. You can reach the beaches easily by popping on the small train that runs between Plage de l'horizon on the Atlantic coast with the jetty at Jetée de Bélisaire on the Arcachon Bay.
The oyster villages along the eastern coast of Cap Ferret are small, colourful and charming, and most have traditional village centre based around a cluster of small brightly painted cabins. These would originally have been the homes of workers from the oyster industry. And with oysters come great seafood restaurants.
As with most parts of this coastline, cycling is a very popular activity and the easiest and best way to get around too. It's worth hiring a bike for the day and exploring a bit to find some of the more hidden coves and beaches. And being a beach side resort all forms of watersports are of course popular, from kayaking to kitesurfing and deep sea fishing to boating.
Things To Do in Bordeaux
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Bordeaux City Tour
Take in Bordeaux’s historic landmarks and modern highlights on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour with panoramic views and audio commentary for all ages.
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So Nice Surf School, Le Porge
Whether it's your first time on a board or you've been surfing for years, So Nice Surf School will give you the guidance you need to get started or to improve your tricks in a cool, laid-back atmosphere.
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Margaux Garden Golf Course, Margaux
Situated within the ground of the hotel Relais de Margaux Golf & Spa this beautiful course sits on the banks of the Gironde estuary.
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Estuaire Jet Ski, Le Verdon sur Mer
You will be able to hire and learn how to drive a jet ski, with the assistance of qualified instructors, you can be on the water within 15 minutes.
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Le Train des Grands Vignobles (Vineyard Train) Tour, Saint Emilion
After discovering the city of Saint Emilion this train tour takes you out into the countryside and surrounding vineyards to discover more about the history and culture of wine in this region.
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Arcachon International Golf Course, Arcachon
The course, whose tree lined fairways are set in natural forests of maritime pines, mimosas, oaks and evergreen strawberry bushes, is hilly on the front nine and flatter over the back nine with several water hazards.
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Bordeaux
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Le Caillou
A diverse music programming that showcases some of the best local and national talent in jazz, music of the World, blues and many other expressions.
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La Ligne Rouge Bar
Situated at the foot of the historical Porte Cailhau, this bar has a list of more than 100 wines. They are focused on international products as well as some lesser-known wines from Bordeaux.
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Casino d'Arcachon, Arcachon
The beautiful building of Chateau Deganne was converted in 1904 into a casino. In the early twentieth century Paris and Bordeaux bourgeoisie came to spend the summer in Arcachon. Thus the town had to create distractions - a casino.
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Bar a vin
One of the best places to taste wines from the Bordeaux region. Located on the ground floor of the headquarters of the Conseil Interprofessionel du Vin de Bordeaux, the bar's team is very knowledgeable and passionate. They give tasting advice, extensive information on the grapes and suggestions for matching food and wine.
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La Conserverie-Converserie Bar
This bar has an old-fashioned decoration that creates a very warm atmosphere. Their wine list includes many French references, as well as from other parts of the world. They can be enjoyed in their cosy interior or the patio, accompanied by selections of local delicatessen.
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Aux Quatre Coins du Vin Bar
Centrally located, this bar offers a large selection of wines, especially French but also from other parts of the world. Customers can taste them through a self-service method, and they can be accompanied by regional delicatessen.
Where to stay in [locality]
Alongside the hotels, guest houses and numerous holiday homes in the area there are also a few really good campsites, perfect for a family holiday.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Bordeaux
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Gaume Villa, Pyla-sur-Mer
Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.
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Le Brame Villa
Situated on the border between Dordogne and Lot et Garonne, Le Brame’s location allows easy exploration of the towns, chȃteaux and landscapes that these two stunning regions offer. Within a 10 to 15 minute drive there are three lovely bastide towns, Villeréal, Monpazier and Monflanquin, to explore, as well as the Chȃteau de Biron which during the summer hosts concerts and light shows. Standing proudly atop a hill, this impressive castle can be seen from the terrace at Le Brame.
Price: £994
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Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Large and pleasant independent villa of 160m2 situated in the pine forest(enclosed garden) 800 metres from the beach, 1 km from shopping, 2.5 km from the golf and 5 km from the lake.
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Canon Villa, Lege-Cap-Ferret
Beautiful villa of 300m2 living space located on the heights of the Canon in the heart of Cap Ferret with a nice view of Arcachon Bay.
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La Brugère Villa, Baleyssagues
A fine example of the French ‘Maison de Maitre’, La Brugère is an impressive and elegant property, surrounded by a spacious, attractive garden with an eye catching pool area, and only a 5 minute drive from the charming town of Duras, home to cafes, restaurants, and shops. In short, La Brugère is a superb haven for groups of any size to reunite and enjoy a memorable holiday.
Price: £3,812
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Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Bordeaux
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La Brugère Villa, Baleyssagues
A fine example of the French ‘Maison de Maitre’, La Brugère is an impressive and elegant property, surrounded by a spacious, attractive garden with an eye catching pool area, and only a 5 minute drive from the charming town of Duras, home to cafes, restaurants, and shops. In short, La Brugère is a superb haven for groups of any size to reunite and enjoy a memorable holiday.
Price: £3,812
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Residence Les Oyats Ref.02366 Apartment, Lacanau
This apartment is located in Residence Les Oyats with lift on the 1st floor, 100 metres from the beach and 50 metres from the shopping area.
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Canon Villa, Lege-Cap-Ferret
Beautiful villa of 300m2 living space located on the heights of the Canon in the heart of Cap Ferret with a nice view of Arcachon Bay.
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Le Brame Villa
Situated on the border between Dordogne and Lot et Garonne, Le Brame’s location allows easy exploration of the towns, chȃteaux and landscapes that these two stunning regions offer. Within a 10 to 15 minute drive there are three lovely bastide towns, Villeréal, Monpazier and Monflanquin, to explore, as well as the Chȃteau de Biron which during the summer hosts concerts and light shows. Standing proudly atop a hill, this impressive castle can be seen from the terrace at Le Brame.
Price: £994
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Lacanau Ocean Villa, Lacanau
Close to city centre this villa is located 600 metres from the beach and shopping area and 3 km from the golf.
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Gaume Villa, Pyla-sur-Mer
Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.
Hotels in [locality]
There are a range of hotels and delightful B&B's along the peninsula, mostly small and with a very seaside, Liberty style charm that suits the area. Much of the area feels a little like New England or part of the Hamptons and the accommodation here reflects that too.
Hotels in Bordeaux
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Chateau Rigaud Hotel, East Bordeaux
This rural chateau set in the heart of the Bordeaux vines. With a passionate, attentive team running this working French country estate. Most bookings are for the chateau as a whole, group holidays, birthdays, parties and weddings. Or you can book just a room and join in the party.
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Yndo
A new, sophisticated, relaxed 5 stars refuge has opened in the heart of Bordeaux, where your well-being and comfort are the priority.
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Les Sources de Caudalie, Martillac
Les Sources de Caudalie, located among the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a Graves great growth, was established in 1999. Between vineyards and forests, at only 20 minutes from Bordeaux centre, the architect Yves Collet created from scratch contemporary buildings from recycled local materials in tune with the surroundings.
Price: €3,338
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Cabanes de la Romaningue Hotel, East Bordeaux
You can either stay in one of the comfortable tree-houses in the forest canapé 9 metres off the ground. Or one of the cosy bubbles which in a unique modern form of logging in your own little private clearing in the woods.
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Clos Marcamps, Prignac-et-Marcamps
In the heart of the vineyards of Bordeaux, half an hour from Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion, or also one hour and half from the Arcachon Bay, Clos Marcamps welcomes you in a chartreuse of the 19th century, entirely renovated with the charm and the comfort of today.
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Chateau de Mirambeau, Bordeaux Area
A Renaissance-style castle located in a peaceful park recently reopened following refurbishment in 2016.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Bordeaux
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Residentiel Villa For Sale - Ref.12765, Blaye
This house/villa of 121 m2, built in 2005, with a land size of 815 m2 contains 5 rooms including 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 1 toilet.
Price: €207,000
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Architect House, Lacanau - Ref.11084126
This house/villa of 165 m2, built in 1994, on 2 levels, with a land size of 1115 m2 has 8 rooms including 7 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room and 2 toilets.
Price: €560,000
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House For Sale, Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac - Ref.04423
In a quiet environment , this house/villa of 106,98 m2, built in 1980, with a land size of 2000 m2 comprises 6 rooms including 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 1 toilet.
Price: €249,800
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Chateau near Bordeaux, Bordeaux Area - Ref.506
Only 20 minutes from Bordeaux airport and 15 minutes from the station, this beautiful XVIIth Century chateau with large outbuildings is set on 50 hectares.
Price: €1,890,000
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Gironde Chateau For Sale - REF 2305312, Bordeaux Region (Gironde)
One of the most extraordinary Chateaux in the Gironde located in the countryside within half an hour of the beautiful city of Bordeaux with its international airport and TGV links. Twenty minutes to Saint Emilion and close to a charming town with a range of shops and restaurants.
Price: €5,500,000
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House For Sale Carbon BLanc, North East Bordeaux - Ref.11107625
This house/villa of 200 m2, built in 1975, on 2 levels, with a land size of 1227 m2 contains 7 rooms including 6 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room and 2 toilets.
Price: €348,000