Climb Dune du Pilat / Pyla during the holidays

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There are places that you visit during your holiday, that leave a lasting impression and for which you do not mind leaving the holiday park for a couple of hours. The Dune du Pilat, also known as Dune du Pyla, is one such place. It is sometimes called the golden giant or the dancing dune on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The moment you put your feet in the soft sand and climb up, you feel the power of nature and the insignificance of man. But at the top, something spectacular awaits: a view that will take your breath away. The ascent is not easy. Every step forward sometimes seems like half a step back through the sinking sand. But with every meter you gain, the expectation grows. The scent of pine forests mixes with the salty air of the Atlantic Ocean. And then, when you finally reach the top, a panorama unfolds that makes you silent. In front of you lies an endless horizon, the deep blue Atlantic Ocean on one side, the vast green forest of Les Landes on the other.

Dune du Pilat: The Highest Sand Dune in Europe

Located in the south-west of France near Arcachon, the Dune du Pilat is the highest sand dune of Europe. Dune du Pyla is located in the vicinity of the holiday park Château de Salles and has an enormous size: from west to east, so inland, this sand dune is more than 600 meters wide. From north to south, the length is almost 3 km. The height is about 110 meters. Every sandstorm changes the dune. It is estimated that all together the dune is made of around 55 million cubic meters of sand. This impressive natural phenomenon attracts many visitors every year. The dune is constantly in movement due to wind and tides, which means that the landscape is constantly changing. This largest dune in Europe moves 4.5 meters to the east every year. Trees, an intersection and even a hotel have now disappeared under the sand. Dune du Pyla originated in the 18th and 19th centuries. Due to the current of the water of the Atlantic Ocean, a sandbank known as Arguin was created. At low tide it often dried up. The wind then blew the sand to the coast. Over the course of a century, the existing sand dune has grown by dozens of meters. In addition, it is said that sand from the Sahara has ensured that the dune has continued to grow.

Close to your holiday park

The Dune du Pyla is just a short drive away from the holidaypark. When driving on the D 218, the coastal road that runs from Arcachon to Biscarosse, you can see the high dune from afar. The paid car park can be crowded unless you go very early. The last part you walk past restaurants, souvenir shops and other tourist services. Long stairs lead you to the top of the dune. In search of more of a challenge? Climb the dune without the stairs! Once you are at the top, you will quickly forget about the treacherous hike. Every year, more than 2 million people come to Dune du Pyla, which is located near to your holiday home in the Aquitaine - Gironde.

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Holiday parks and holiday homes near Dune du Pyla

Dune du Pyla is located near Pyla-sur-Mer. The popularity of these stunning dunes is reflected in the large number of holiday parks and holiday homes that are located near Dune du Pilat.
✅ Dune du Pilat – A must-see! Climb the sand dune for a breathtaking view of the ocean and the Landes forests.
✅ Beaches – Wide sandy beaches, popular among surfers
✅ Water sports – Surfing, kite surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and boat trips on the Bassin d'Arcachon.
✅ Villages & gastronomy – Enjoy fresh oysters in the port of Arcachon or explore Cap Ferret.
✅ Nature & adventure – Cycling routes, hiking trails and boat excursions to Île aux Oiseaux.

Activities on and around the Dune du Pilat

Visit Dune du Pyla from your holiday home, and discover the activities you can do there:

  • Paragliding: Thanks to the favorable wind conditions and steep slopes, the Dune du Pilat on the Atlantic coast is a popular location for paragliding. There are local schools and instructors that offer tandem flights and courses for both beginners and advanced paragliders. Experience the ultimate feeling of freedom as you float over the dune with breathtaking views over the ocean
  • Picnic: Go for a picnic on Dune du Pyla whilst taking in the beautiful panoramic views.
  • Sandsurfing: Have you already tried out the different forms of surfing on sea? Take on the challenge of going sand surfing! It is an adventurous way to  descend the dune on a board.
  • Hiking and cycling: Explore the nearby forests. The area around Pyla-sur-Mer has several hiking and cycling trails that run through the vast pine forests of the Landes de Gascogne Nature Reserve and along the coastline. These routes vary in difficulty and offer opportunities for both leisurely walks and more intensive bike rides.
  • Water Sports: Its proximity to both the ocean and the Bassin d'Arcachon makes Pyla-sur-Mer ideal for various water sports. Activities such as surfing, kite surfing and sailing are popular. There are local providers who offer lessons and equipment rentals. Descend the dune and take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean or rent a kayak to explore the coastline.
  • Visit the Banc d'Arguin: Off the coast of the Dune du Pilat, you’ll find the Banc d'Arguin which is a sandbank that is a protected nature reserve. The area is accessible by boat and is known for its large bird population and unique ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and admiring nature.

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Beaches & Swimming Spots

  • Plage de la Corniche – A beautiful beach near the Dune du Pilat.
  • Plage du Petit Nice – Quieter and family-friendly beach.
  • Plage de la Lagune – Beautiful and less crowded place for swimming and sunbathing.

Food & Drink

  • Restaurant La Co(o)rniche – Luxury dining with panoramic views over the ocean.
  • Le Panorama – Cozy restaurant with fresh fish and seafood.
  • Oyster Huts in Arcachon or Cap Ferret – For the best local oysters and white wine.

Sights & Activities

  • Dune du Pilat – Climb the highest dune in Europe and enjoy the view over the ocean, the Landes forest and the Banc d'Arguin.
  • Banc d'Arguin – Take a boat trip to this nature reserve, a sandbank in the Bay of Arcachon, perfect for bird watching.
  • Cap Ferret – Visit this charming headland with beautiful beaches, lighthouses and oyster farms.
  • Arcachon Bay – Ideal for water sports, fishing or a boat trip to Île aux Oiseaux and its stilt houses (Cabanes Tchanquées).
  • Oyster tasting – Try fresh oysters at one of the many oyster huts in Gujan-Mestras or Cap Ferret.

Practical Tips for a great day

  • Visit in the early morning or towards sunset for the most beautiful colors and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes or go barefoot to feel connected to nature.
  • Bring water and a small snack, as the climb can be strenuous. And once at the top, you don't want to get off right away.
  • Respect nature, leave no rubbish behind and let the dune retain its beauty. Stay on designated trails to minimize erosion.
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