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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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La Grand'Vigne Restaurant, Martillac
Located in 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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Bar a vin
Located in Bordeaux
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
Located in Bordeaux
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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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]
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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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Maison de la Cote Villa
Located in Bordeaux
Beaches and ocean, forest and lakes meet in perfect harmony in this much sought after area south of Bordeaux, known as ‘Bisca Grands Lacs’. Golden sandy beaches line the Atlantic coast as far as the eye can see, walking and cycling trails criss-cross the tranquil verdant pine forests whilst the three ‘Grands Lacs’ offer that tantalising combination of water sports, beaches and swimming alongside vibrant villages and small marinas.
Price: £1,450
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Le Clos des Chenes Villa
Located in Bordeaux
Nestled in the picturesque countryside not far from the pretty bastide of Lalinde on the banks of the River Dordogne, Le Clos des Chênes is one of the most beautifully restored farmhouses and its setting one of the most restful we have come across.
Price: £2,090
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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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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.
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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.