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.
Cap Ferret
The most southerly tip of the Lège-Cap-Ferret peninsula
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.
Events in Bordeaux
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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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Sights & Attractions in Bordeaux
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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Tour Pey-Berland (Tower of Pey-Berland), Bordeaux
Views across Bordeaux from the top of the tower
Flanking the Cathédrale Saint-André, this tower (and the square in which it sits) is named after the Archbishop Pey-Berland.
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Musee d'Aquitaine
History museum & heritage centre for Bordeaux & the Aquitaine region
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 Arts Decoratifs, Bordeaux
Decorative arts museum situated in a mansion in the heart of Bordeaux
Housed in the 18th century Hôtel de Lalande, the museum of decorative arts has a collection of sculptures, ceramics, glass and silverware in its panelled rooms.
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Musee des Douanes
History of customs in the old port town of 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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Musee des Beaux-Arts, Bordeaux
Museum of Fine Arts with European paintings and sculptures from the 15th to the 20th century
Located in the centre of Bordeaux, this museum features paintings and sculptures by some of the best European artists, from the Renaissance to the 20th century.
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Porte Cailhau, City of Bordeaux
Medieval city gate in the heart of Bordeaux
This medieval city gate commemorates the French victory in the battle of Fornovo in Italy.
Beaches in Bordeaux
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
Long golden sand beach facing the Atlantic Ocean
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
Close to where the basin of Arcachon meets the Atlantic ocean
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
Running south along the west coast from the Pereire area
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
Around 3km of fine sand looking over to the Cap-Ferret peninsula
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
Dune of Pilat is located at the entrance to the Bay of Arcachon
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
The main beach along the seafront promenade of the town of Arcachon
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 Bordeaux
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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La Grand'Vigne Restaurant, Martillac
Two Michelin starred restaurant among the vineyards overlooking a lake
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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Le Pressoir d'Argent Restaurant
British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s 2-Michelin starred 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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Tante Charlotte Restaurant
Trendy small French restaurant in a central location
This restaurant, with a an attractive modern decor, serves traditional French dishes in a chilled and intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner. It is very well located in the middle of the city centre.
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Raviolon Restaurant
Gourmet bistro in the centre of Bordeaux
This restaurant serves creative French cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. The dining room is simple and elegant.
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Tentazioni Restaurant
Gourmet Italian restaurant in the centre of Bordeaux
This small Italian restaurant serves fresh market cuisine in its modern dining room and terrace. They also have an assortment of Italian wines from various regions.
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Le Bistro du Caillou
Bistro nestled in the heart of the Botanical Gardens of Bordeaux
Set in a large rock shaped building this restaurant is known as Caillou (stone in English) and have views over the Botanical Gardens of the city.
Nightlife in Bordeaux
Bars & Clubs in Bordeaux
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La Conserverie-Converserie Bar
Charming wine bar and delicatessen shop in the Quartier des Chartrons
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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La Ligne Rouge Bar
Wine bar offering international references in the centre of Bordeaux
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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Bar a vin
Bar run by young sommeliers with a vast selection of wines from the Bordeaux region
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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Aux Quatre Coins du Vin Bar
Wine bar in the centre of Bordeaux with a clever self-service system
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.
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Le Caillou
Musical diversity in the heart of the city of Bordeaux
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.
Things to do in Bordeaux
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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Le Petit Train de Bordeaux, City of Bordeaux
Explore this grand city from the comfort of the tourist train
As it passes through the oldest parts of Bordeaux, making the most of the landscape, the train takes you past the most famous places and monuments of the city.
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La Ferme Exotique Animal & Nature Park, South Bordeaux
Wildlife and leisure park close to the city of Bordeaux
With over 1000 animals to meet, from around 75 different species, from the very smallest, all the way up to the largest breeding camels in France.
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Bordeaux City Tour
See the sights of Bordeaux at your own pace by open-top bus
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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Golf du Medoc Golf Courses, Le Pian Medoc
Two of Europe's finest golf courses in the heart of the Medoc
Created in 1989, the Golf du Médoc offers 2 remarkable 18-hole courses: Les Châteaux and Les Vignes.
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Parc Bordelais
Beautiful park not far from the centre of Bordeaux
Designed as a public green space in the 19th-century, this 28-hectare historical park is home to around 3000 trees, 1000 of which are more than a century old.
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Public Garden
Beautiful public garden & green space in the heart of the city
The public garden in the city of Bordeaux houses an arboretum, a library and a Natural History Museum.
Watersports in Bordeaux
Watersports in Bordeaux
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So Nice Surf School, Le Porge
Surf school on the quiet beach of north 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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Magic Surf School, Lacanau
Teaching, coaching & surf lessons that will turn you into a pro
Each session is tailored to the requirements of the participants.
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Estuaire Jet Ski, Le Verdon sur Mer
Jet ski lessons, hire & inflatable fun!
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.
Where to stay in Bordeaux
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.
Holiday Rentals in Bordeaux
Holiday Rentals in Bordeaux
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Marie Villa
3 bedroom Villa in Bordeaux. Sleeps 6
Excellent wines and delicious food are synonymous with South West France and so it is with great pleasure that they include Villa Marie in their portfolio, where gastronomic delights are to be found on the doorstep: the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte are just 1.3km away (a 20 minute walk), with the restaurants of the renowned spa hotel, Les Sources de Caudalie, a few 100 metres further along. Equally enticing is the proximity of the region’s capital, Bordeaux. Easily accessible by both car and public transport, visits to this wonderful city will become an integral part of the holiday.
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Canon Villa, Lege-Cap-Ferret
7 bedroom Villa in Bordeaux. Sleeps 14
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.
Hotels in Bordeaux
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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Les Sources de Caudalie, Martillac
Sense of detail and service of a Palace combined with a warm and family atmosphere
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.
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Le Grand Hotel de Bordeaux
Located opposite the Grand Theatre in the heart of the historic centre of Bordeaux
The majestic hall of the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa designed by Jacques Garcia is impressive. Marble, Bordeaux stone, warm-tone fabrics (plum, mauve, deep red), 18th century-inspired furnishings, original floral creations: an invitation to peace and tranquillity.
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Villa La Tosca Hotel, Andernos-les-Bains
Tucked away in the Bassin d'Arcachon off the Atlantic ocean
This exclusive country estate offers 8 bedrooms, all ensuite. 4 of which still retain their original marble fire places. All rooms have breathtaking views of either the ocean or the pine forest.
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Cabanes de la Romaningue Hotel, East Bordeaux
A unique place to stay in a vineyard dating back to the 16th century
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
Situated among the vineyards in the heart of a hilly landscape
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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Yndo
Located at the heart of Bordeaux’ lively historic centre
A new, sophisticated, relaxed 5 stars refuge has opened in the heart of Bordeaux, where your well-being and comfort are the priority.
Property For Sale in Bordeaux
Property for Sale in Bordeaux
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House For Sale Carbon BLanc, North East Bordeaux - Ref.11107625
6 bedroom house for sale
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.
House For Sale Carbon BLanc, North East Bordeaux - Ref.11107625
€348,000 -
House For Sale, Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac - Ref.04423
3 bedroom house foe sale
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.
House For Sale, Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac - Ref.04423
€249,800 -
XIVth Century Castle, Bordeaux Area
XIVth century castle modified at the XIXth century in Bordeaux Right Bank
A very few kilometres away from Bordeaux, of the Saint John’s Station and Bordeaux Mérignac’s international airport, this property is on 4ha.
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Deluxe House For Sale Carbon Blanc, North East Bordeaux - Ref.04560
15 bedroom house for sale
This house/villa of 1800 m2, built in 1900, on 4 levels, with a land size of 15 ha contains 24 rooms including 15 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 shower rooms and 4 toilets.
Deluxe House For Sale Carbon Blanc, North East Bordeaux - Ref.04560
€4,220,000 -
Gironde Chateau For Sale - REF 2305312, Bordeaux Region (Gironde)
Stunning Chateau with ten bedrooms plus a separate annexe building with ten bedrooms
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.
Gironde Chateau For Sale - REF 2305312, Bordeaux Region (Gironde)
€5,500,000 -
Deluxe House For Sale, Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac - Ref.04202
4 bedroom house with swimming pool for sale
This house/villa of 190 m2, on 2 levels, with a land size of 2216 m2 comprises 9 rooms including 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room and 2 toilets.
Deluxe House For Sale, Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac - Ref.04202
€312,000
































































