The last town in the Gironde before entering the Landes department, La Teste-de-Buch is a high point on the Gascony tourist route. Numerous holidaymakers choose to stay in one of our Yelloh! Village campsites.

It has to be said, the town boasts an enviable position for visitors keen to discover both departments and admire some breathtaking landscapes. On one side you have the Pyla-sur-Mer district, which encompasses the town’s different beaches. Here, you can look out to the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean, cut into by the Banc d’Arguin, a sandbank and nature reserve home to a multitude of bird species.

Behind you, there are the pines of the Testé Forest, the last remaining “user forest” in the Regional Natural Park of the Landes de Gascogne. On the other side, Lake Cazaux-Sanguinet marks the border between the departments of the Gironde and the Landes, providing holidaymakers with a relaxing setting where they can truly unwind.

THE must-see sight at La Teste-de-Buch, the landmark everyone looks to, is the famous Dune du Pilat. The dune marks at striking contrast with the surrounding forest. The most impressive thing, however, is its height. Its peak culminates at 102.5 metres, making it the highest dune in Europe.

Did you know?

La Teste-de-Buch is big. Very big! In fact, it’s the 5th biggest town in mainland France in terms of surface area (180 km²). Only beaten by Arles, Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and Haguenau! Hiking enthusiasts and cyclists can therefore look forward to some sporty outings in these stunning surroundings.

So, what’s on the agenda?

The list of things to do and see at La Teste-de-Buch is a long one. Which is good news for holidaymakers! Obviously, you’ll want to plan a climb up the Dune du Pilat to enjoy a wonderful panoramic view across the whole of Gascony. Then, change viewpoint to admire the dune itself. The best way to do that is to take a boat trip and to stop off on the Banc d’Arguin sandbank.

And after your efforts, time for some relaxation. Revel in the warmth of the sand on the beaches and of the sunshine at La Corniche or La Lagune. Also worthy of note, there is a handi-beach (for people with reduced mobility), the Petit Nice, an excellent initiative. And if you like a change of scenery, be sure to check out the beaches at Lake Cazaux-Sanguinet.

You simply can’t lie back and do nothing? In that case, head for La Salie Nord, a beach reserved for board sports. Otherwise, hire a bicycle and set off for a ride in the forest. In summer, it’s the best place to find some cooler air.

You should also visit the town centre, which is very lively. It boasts architecture from the past five centuries and its church is definitely worth a visit. Take a trip to one of the largest indoor markets in the region, teeming with local produce. Then stroll down to the oyster port. If you enjoy oysters, you’ll even be able to sample a plateful in one of the huts.

Meanwhile, your children will love spending a day with the animals at the Arcachon Bay Zoo. It is home to over 150 species and stretches some 22 hectares. And if the sunshine is especially hot, cool off at Aqualand. There you’ll find swimming pools, water slides, “The Wave” and “Boomerang” for thrills and spills with the whole family!

And be sure to visit the other towns nearby too. Cap Ferret, Arcachon, Andernos-les Bains, Biscarrosse... The region is bursting with lovely places.

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