Looking for an exceptional place to visit during your vacation in New Aquitaine? The Dune du Pilat is a must see! It is the highest dune in Europe, reaching a height of 106.6 m, with a length of 2,915 m, a width of 616 m and 550 million m3 of sand. Located a few kilometers from Biscarrosse on the Atlantic coast, the Dune du Pilat is considered as the Sahara of France, the Everest of the Landes region.
A condensed history for the Dune du Pilat
Between ocean and forest, the Dune du Pilat (which means “heap” in Gascon) is a goldmine for the history of the region. It is located in France, on the silver coast, on the edge of the Lande de Gascogne and at the entrance of the basin of Arcachon. This part of the southwest is known for its coastline of sandy dunes and large pine forests along the beach. These were constructed to protect the interior from the mobile sand that had exerted damage on many coastal towns prior to the beginnings of these works in the eighteenthᵉ century. The Dune du Pilat is one of the greatest examples of the movement of sand from the arguin bank to the coast. More than 5,000 years old, the dune moves 1 to 5 m per year under the effect of winds and tides, covering the trees on the eastern side. The current location of the dune was the seat of activities related to the exploitation of sea salt. There are several paleosols (ancient fossilized soils), the oldest of which dates from 8,000 to 2,000 BC. J.C.
An exceptional tourist site to see during your stay in the Landes
The Dune du Pilat has been attracting visitors for centuries because of its beauty and uniqueness, making it one of the biggest tourist attractions in southwest France. By taking the famous staircase with 160 steps on the parking side, you will have access to the top of the dune where a breathtaking panorama on the basin of Arcachonawaits you. It offers a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and the pine forest of the Landes de Gascogne. The more athletic can also walk over the dune on one side or the other. Once there, enjoy the fresh air and sunshine at your leisure. Let yourself be seduced by the colors of nature, the blue of the ocean, the green of the pines and the white of the Banc d’Arguin nature reserve. In this beautiful and enchanting place, with its sandy hills and clear blue sky in the background.
Activities in camping near Dune du Pilat
By going to these lands, you can also enjoy the sea or air activities that are often organized there. Paragliding, hiking, boat tripsor even a visit to the Banc d’Arguin are all activities that will make your stay unforgettable in camping near the Dune du Pilat. Take advantage of the animators for a little history lesson: when, how and why was the Dune du Pilat formed? Take part in nature activities, organize picnics… everything is beautiful. Will you be there with your fiancé(e)? Well, you could also propose in this idyllic setting during an otherworldly sunset; these moments will be unforgettable. Only 40 minutes by car from our family campsite in the Landes, take advantage of this proximity to the sea to bask in every opportunity or explore the Bassin d’Arcachon.
A walk near Biscarrosse
Accessible to all
The dune is located at 1 hour drive from Bordeaux and has parking lots for the security of the means of transport. Free access, it is accessible by bus, car, bicycle and even on foot for the most enduring. If you are in the Gironde or in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the Dune du Pilat is the site to visit, during your camping vacations in the Landes, in Biscarrosse. And don’t forget to go and relax on one of the most beautiful beaches of the southwest, near Biscarrosse.
The Dune of Pilat
