The awe-inspiring Dune du Pilat, located near Arcachon in southwest France, is an extraordinary natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the globe. As Europe’s tallest sand dune, it stretches over 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles) in length, stands at an impressive 110 meters (360 feet) high, and continues to grow each year.
A must-see attraction along the Atlantic coast, the Dune of Pilat offers panoramic views of the picturesque Landes forest, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and the stunning Arcachon Bay. This unique landscape provides an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Whether you choose to climb the dune by foot or take advantage of the stairs provided, reaching the summit is a rewarding feat. Here, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking scenery, indulge in paragliding, or simply relax and watch the sunset paint the sky in mesmerizing colors. The Dune of Pilat is a testament to nature’s beauty and power, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Why is it so big?
The Dune of Pilat’s remarkable size is due to the interplay of natural factors like local geology, wind patterns, and ocean currents. Sand from the eroded Pyrenees and continental shelf is carried northward by ocean currents and trapped by the Landes forest. Westward winds and tidal patterns deposit sand at the dune’s base, contributing to its continuous growth and making it an ever-evolving natural wonder.
Getting There:
Reaching the Dune of Pilat is relatively straightforward, as it is well-connected and easily accessible from nearby towns and cities.
By car: If you are driving from Bordeaux, take the A63 motorway towards Arcachon, then follow the D803 and D218 roads towards La Teste-de-Buch. From there, follow signs to the Dune du Pilat. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, covering a distance of around 60 kilometers (37 miles). There is a paid parking area close to the dune, where you can leave your car and walk to the site.
By public transportation: From Bordeaux, take a train to Arcachon. The ride takes about 50 minutes. Once in Arcachon, you can catch the Baïa bus (line 1) directly to the Dune of Pilat, which takes about 30 minutes. This option is convenient and allows you to avoid driving and parking.
By bike: For the more adventurous, there is a network of cycling paths connecting Arcachon to the Dune of Pilat. The ride is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) and takes you through scenic landscapes and coastal areas.
