Dune de Pilat
Weekend trips are the best. While the weather forecast wasn’t looking great, we have taken the pups to see the biggest dune Europe can offer. And while it was a bit of a workout for everyone to get to the top, the wind was very unexpected, but the views were truly amazing! Letting them go on the beach and exploring, dipping their paws into the Atlantic ocean and regretting their decision, life is too short and this is their favourite thing to do! Beach fun!
Dune de Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe. It is located in the Arcachon Bay area, southwest of Bordeaux along Atlantic coastlines.The protected area spreads over 6000 hectares. The coast line’s highest dune peaks can reach around 100 – 115m (depends where the wind blows) and is the highest one in Europe and even during most reasonable conditions, you should expect the unexpected. It’s not a beach, it is a mountain and little by little. When the weather is good, expect some heavy traffic and the number of visitors to rise. Choose visiting outside of the peak periods, avoid summer. But if you are visiting during the summer season, visit in the morning/ at sunrise or later in the day during evening/sunset. But always check the weather forecast. During summer, a set of wooden steps is installed for easier/ faster access to the top of the dune. Few restaurants and coffee shops are open all year round.
While parking is limited and it’s advised to check their parking tool for availability, there are 4 different carparks within the area. The parking fees vary between low and high season (be aware of any school holidays, even in March – parking costs 7 Euros for 4 hours) and there is a penalty for overnight parking (50 Euros). The cheapest and free option is by foot or bike. Dogs are free. You contribute to the preservation of the Grand Site. Wild parking, along the road and in the forest is strictly prohibited.
Most guarded beaches in France implement a dog ban during summertime (mid June through September). However when it comes to the dog friendly beaches, there are quite a few to choose from, especially during the winter months. There are more options – generally all unattended beaches can be visited during the off-peak season with your pets.
- Plage du Pin Sec – Great dog-friendly beach, long strand of beach that is never too crowded. Plenty of free car parking (can be hit and miss during busier times). Some bunkers on the beach provide a reminder of the wartime past. Expect it to be busy with campers during the summer/high season.
- Salie South Beach (Pyla sur Mer) – This beach does not have a great reputation but it’s never crowded. Dogs are allowed on this beach. In general, a good beach for dogs but more frequented by surfers.
- Le Porge Ocean – white sandy beach with decent surf, parking nearby with a short walk through the forest of pine trees. Dogs are allowed but can be a little more crowded during summertime.
Puppies miss the beach dearly and we cannot wait to explore some closer to us during summer breaks. Only a few more weeks till they get to run and spend a Weekend in Holland.