Running from the ferry terminal at Belisaire on the Arcachon Bay side of the peninsula this small train link passengers to the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast.
Tourist Train
Narrow gauge railway that connects the Arcachon basin with the west coast
The train is set on a 600mm narrow gauge track and was first operated in 1879 and was originally pulled by a horse. It became engine powered in 1925 and service was stopped in 1935. It was reinstated once more in 1952 and eventually in 1989 the train was acquired by the commune and has been run by them ever since.
It travels a distance of 2km and takes around 12 minutes for each journey between Plage de l'horizon on the Atlantic coast with the jetty at Jetée de Bélisaire on the Arcachon Bay.
It operates during the summer months between April and early November and runs around every 30 minutes or so. Generally the service is only run in the afternoons, however during peak times the trains are more frequent and there are some morning services.
Although the line is largely situated along the road side, the trains are operated by open-sided coaches hauled by diesel locomotives, so it feels like a real treat and a fun way to travel across the peninsula.
What to see
Sights in Bordeaux
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Le Phare du Cap-Ferret Museum
Lighthouse that ensures safe passage into Bay of Arcachon
Situated a little inland on the peninsula to protect the building from erosion, it was placed there to monitor and protect the numerous vessels entering the basin from the strong ocean currents.
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La Chapelle de la Villa Algerienne, l'Herbe
A Moorish style church nestled on the coast of the Arcachon Bay
In 1863 Leo Lesca and his brother bought a large estate on the edge of Arcachon basin. When they returned from Algeria, they built a fabulous home, the "Villa Algerian" which was surrounded by a park with the most exotic flora.
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Notre-Dame des Passes, Arcachon
Beautiful Byzantine and Tuscan style church above Moulleau
Founded in 1864 this stunning church was built in a Byzantine and Tuscan style and it houses one of the rarest statues of the Virgin of the Advent (the pregnant Virgin) in France.
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Notre Dame Basilica - La Chapelle des Marins, Arcachon
Known as the Chapel of the Sailors, built in 1722
The Shrine of Our Lady of Arcachon was founded by a Franciscan, Father Thomas Illyricus. On January 16, 1624, the chapel Thomas Illyricus was overthrown by a storm.
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Ile aux Ouiseax
A small island in the centre of the Arcachon basin
During low tide the island stretches to 16km in circumference but is a mere 5km at high tide. Known for its birds, (hence the name) and also the presence of 'Les Cabanes Tchanquées' - houses on stilts.
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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.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Bordeaux
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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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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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Hostellerie de Plaisance Restaurant, Saint Emilion
Michelin starred gourmet restaurant overlooking 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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Solena Restaurant
A restaurant that uses sustainable ingredients for a mix of French cuisine with multi-cultural influences
This restaurant produces French classic dishes combined with inspiration drawn from other parts of the world. The ingredients they use are fresh, local, sustainable and organic when possible.
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Le Bo Site Restaurant, Arcachon
Chilled restaurant right on the beach by the lake of Cazaux
This restaurant enjoys a wonderful location by the beautiful Lac de Cazaux. There is a very pleasant terrace on the beach where they serve local delicacies, as well as tapas and snacks.
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Le Saint-James Restaurant, Bouliac
Michelin starred restaurant with panoramic views over Bordeaux
Chef Nicolas Magie draws inspiration from the region of Aquitaine and its seasonal produce for his inventive cuisine based on French classic dishes. Surrounded by nature, this gourmet restaurant has a light and airy dining room created by famous architect Jean Nouvel, who also designed the terraced garden.
What to do
Things To Do in Bordeaux
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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.
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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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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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Les Petits Chevaux Horse Riding, Soulac-sur-Mer
Equestrian centre in the north of the Medoc that is open all year
Whatever your age or level of riding, you will be welcome at the equestrian centre to share their passion for horses.
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Arcachon International Golf Course, Arcachon
Situated close to the highest dune in Europe, it enjoys an exceptional location
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.
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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.



























