Cap Ferret
The most southerly tip of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsulaAbout
This 'spit' separates the Altlantic Ocean from the Arcachon Bay & basin. Best known perhaps for its lighthouse, it is 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 is 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 aroung 25 km. The waves provide the show. here! And on the east coastline there are 15 km of beaches, punctuated here and there by small coves, harbors 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 Cap-Ferret
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.
Beaches in Cap-Ferret
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.
Events in Cap-Ferret
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.
Things to Do in Cap-Ferret
A trip over to the west coast to see the Atlantic Ocean is a must whilst you are 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 is 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.
Dining in Cap-Ferret
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 are in the area. For example the Chai Bertrand Restaurant which serves the freshest of oysters and has a wonderful terrace overlooking the bay,
Where to Stay in Cap-Ferret
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!
Hotels in Cap-Ferret
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.
