The city of Bordeaux, the 6th largest in France, offers a heady mix of a rich history, world-class architecture, excellent gastronomy and of course, fine wines. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, valued as an inhabited historic city and an icon of the Enlightenment era. The beautiful Arcachon Bay offers a classy, classical seaside feel making it a popular summer spot for those in the know. The beautiful sandy beaches, delicious fresh seafood and an excellent network of cycle routes make this one of France's best kept cycling secrets.
Bordeaux City – Its architecture, culture, food and wine. The grand wine chateaux of the Margaux appellation. The sand, sun and seafood of the Arcachon Bay and the spectacular views from the top of Dune du Pilat.
Leave the city behind and take a regional train with your bikes to Arcachon (50 minutes). Arcachon itself is a charming resort town with a Californian feel to it and your day is free to explore it. Take a dip in the sea, treat yourself to fresh local oysters or take a cruise on the bay before checking into your hotel in the afternoon and soaking up the atmosphere on the boardwalk.
Day 5 Optional Round Trip to Dune du Pilat | Distance 16 miles (27 km).
This round trip follows some of the excellent cycle paths in this part of the world to take you to the highest sand dune in Europe, the Dune du Pilat. Park up your bikes in the visitor centre and take a walk up and along the dunes perfect sand for some spectacular panoramas of the Atlantic coast. The route takes you back to Arcachon via the forest on an excellent, smooth cycle path, but you may prefer to retrace your steps along the coast if the wind is favourable.
Hop on the ferry from Arcachon to Andernos to start this ride (payable locally, 5.50€ with a bike). The ride itself is a pleasant cruise across the calm, blue waters of the bay. Upon disembarking you head westwards, following cycle paths out to the coast and down the Cap Ferret peninsula towards its iconic lighthouse. We suggest stopping here for a long lunch and a lazy afternoon before taking the ferry back to Arcachon from Jetée Bélisaire (payable locally, 5.50€ with a bike).
After checking out, take the short spin up to Arcachon station and hop on the train back to Bordeaux. You have the afternoon free to explore the city by bike. We suggest a ride up to the Cité du Vin, a striking piece of architecture and home to an immersive range of exhibits on the past, present and future of the wine world.
Day 8 We say au revoir before a recommended departure from Bordeaux TGV station or airport.
A colourful boutique 4* hotel in the heart of Arcachon and our favourite spot in the town. The hotel is situated walking distance from the beach, shops and restaurants of the town. Rooms are beautifully presented in a colourful yet classical style.
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