Hourtin

A protected natural reserve with wild marshes, sand dunes and pine forests, this huge body of water is perfect for outdoor activities such as sailing, swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, canoeing, fishing, kite surfing, paddle boarding, or walking and biking along the trails and cycle paths that line the shores of the lake.

Just 12km away from the town of Hourtin, the beach of Hourtin Plage sits on the Atlantic ocean and offers a wide range of watersports for all levels.

Backed by the small town of Carcans Océan, this white sand beach on the western Atlantic coast is a popular surf spot.

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.

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.

The beaches extend to 7km of fine-sand beaches along the Atlantic coast; Centre Beach, South Beach and Amelie Beach making up the most popular and closest to the town.

Read our guide to Bordeaux markets page to find out which market to visit when. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a typical French market is an absolute must for anyone exploring everything French.

Exceptional locations around France, including Bordeaux, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.

The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.

The Autumn festival in Saint-Emilion celebrates the wine and heritage of this medieval city. The 'Jurade' are the Saint-Emilion wine brotherhood who historically had administrative rights over the town. As part of the festival they parade through the town in their traditional crimson robes, reminiscent of the all-powerful aldermen of centuries past.

At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.

From the last week of November and throughout December, Bordeaux holds its great Christmas market in the Allées de Tourny. A festive event and a good place to pick up an original Christmas gift, or see Santa Claus and let him have your list.

Nice villa for 10 persons located 4.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the shopping street.

Large and pleasant independent villa of 160m2 situated in the pine forest(enclosed garden) 800 metres from the beach, 1 km from shopping, 2.5 km from the golf and 5 km from the lake.

Close to city centre this villa is located 600 metres from the beach and shopping area and 3 km from the golf.

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.

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.

Villa Gaume is located on the front line a few steps from the famous Dune du Pyla and the Corniche.

Atlantic Villa is located on a quiet private road just a 2 minute walk from the centre of Hourtin where you will find all the local amenities and shops, 800 metres from the Hourtin lake.