Hotel du Porge, Le Porge

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.

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.

Whatever your age or level of riding, you will be welcome at the equestrian centre to share their passion for horses.

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.

Created in 1989, the Golf du Médoc offers 2 remarkable 18-hole courses: Les Châteaux and Les Vignes.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This restaurant is part of the Hotel La Co(o)rniche which dominates the Pilat-Plage area, a neighbourhood based around the dune of Pilat. It is located in an old Basque-style hunting lodge and oyster farming house from the 1930s, which have been renovated by the famous designer Philippe Starck.

This restaurant is beautifully located by the sea, overlooking the Bassin d'Arcachon and the Great Dune of Pilat. Their menu is focused on seafood and fish, although there are other choices.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Le Porge beach is also known for its large waves and strong undertow, even if the rescuers are not far away, you must remain cautious as you would for many of the ocean beaches.

Beach Grand Crohot Lege is accessible by walkways throughout the year, and is supervised by lifeguards from mid June to mid September.

Over time, the wind and ocean currents have gradually created a wall of sand dunes, behind which streams and rivers have allowed the formation of lakes and freshwater ponds.

The Truc Vert ocean beach is accessible by walkways April to October, and supervised by lifeguards from mid June to mid September. In the absence of monitoring an emergency call station is on site.

A small, peaceful and tranquil beach that is situated at the entrance to the marina and is the most sheltered of all the beaches around Arcachon due to its location within the basin.

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.

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.

This small museum was established in 1975 by local people who wanted to preserve and remember their local heritage and the history of the Medoc / Bordeaux area.

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.

Situated close to the Port of Arcachon this beautiful church is in the heart of the old town and fishing village area.

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.

Located in Gujan-Mestras, capital of oyster of Arcachon Bay, Oyster House invites you to discover the art of oyster farming, production techniques and the history of the oyster over centuries.

Le Porge Ocean becomes a 'local' beach for the Bordeaux summer holidayers.

As well as being a surfers paradise, Lacanau is also a golfers paradise, with three golf courses in the beautiful setting of the forest close to the sea and to the lake.

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.

Part of the Médoc's Lakes which is made up of the municipalities of Lacanau, Carcans, and Hourtin.

Traditionally the town of Arcachon was popular weekend retreat for those needing to escape the big city of Bordeaux. It has also been associated with a place of health and recovery where people were sent to 'take the air' and recuperate from various ailments at the turn of the 19th century.

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.