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Travel Guide of Pyla sur Mer in France by Influencers and Travelers


The Dune of Pilat, also called Grande Dune du Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe. It is located in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay area, France, 60 km from Bordeaux.


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How to visit Pyla sur Mer ?

To get to Pyla sur Mer, you can fly into Bordeaux-Merignac Airport, which is approximately 60 km away. From there, you can rent a car or take a train to Arcachon, followed by a bus (line 1) to Pyla sur Mer directly. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris to Bordeaux, and then continue to Arcachon.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the high season (June to September). It is essential to book accommodations and any specific activities like paragliding, boat tours, or guided hikes. You may also want to book a table at popular restaurants to ensure you get a dining spot.

Costs in Pyla sur Mer can vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodations you choose. On average, expect to spend around €100-€150 per night for a mid-range hotel. Dining can range from €10-€30 per person for a meal at a moderately priced restaurant. Activities such as paragliding or boat tours can cost around €50-€100 per person.

The best things to do in Pyla sur Mer include exploring the Dune of Pilat, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the ocean, forest, and surrounding landscapes. You can also visit the nearby Banc d'Arguin National Park, a fantastic spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Pyla, or enjoy water sports such as sailing, surfing, or paddleboarding. For a unique experience, try paragliding above the dune for an unforgettable perspective.

For dining, consider the highly-rated La Co(o)rniche, which offers fantastic seafood and local cuisine with breathtaking views of the Dune of Pilat. Another excellent choice is Chez Pépé, a beachfront restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes and laid-back atmosphere. For a more casual option, try the Pyla Beach Café, which serves a variety of sandwiches and salads.

When it comes to accommodations, La Guitoune is a stylish boutique hotel offering a cozy and comfortable stay. For a more luxurious option, consider the Hotel Ha(a)ïtza, which boasts modern amenities and beautiful views. For budget travelers, Camping Panorama du Pyla offers affordable camping and mobile home rentals with easy access to Dune of Pilat and the beach.

Off the beaten path: A lesser-known activity in Pyla sur Mer is exploring the nearby forest trails on a bike or on foot. The vast Landes forest offers a peaceful and serene experience away from the crowds, where you can discover wildlife, hidden paths, and beautiful landscapes. Additionally, consider visiting the Cap Ferret peninsula by boat, where you can discover charming fishing villages, oyster farms, and secluded beaches for a more authentic and local experience.



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Learn More about Pyla sur Mer

Pyla-sur-Mer is a seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, in Gironde, in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine, 65 km southwest of Bordeaux.

Located on the territory of La Teste-de-Buch, the resort extends from the entrance of the Arcachon basin, a city it borders, to the Pilat dune, famous for being the highest in Europe.

The resort includes several neighborhoods and its beaches follow one another for more than 10 kilometers.
Pyla-sur-Mer and its dune are definitely worth a visit, and the environment as well as the cultural and leisure activities in summer legitimately attract tens of thousands of holidaymakers.

The exceptional site of the Dune du Pilat (110 m high, about 3 km long, 600 m wide) attracts more than one and a half million visitors per year. 
It is a natural monument of 135 hectares formed by the accumulation of sand from the sea. 

Almost devoid of vegetation, the dune offers at its summit an exceptional panoramic view on the coast, the sea as well as on the land.

Opposite the dune, in the open sea, you can see the Arguin bank, a sand bank 4 km long and 2 km wide, which seems to mark the entrance of the Arcachon basin. 
Protected area for its fauna (birds) and its dune flora, it is accessible by boat (shuttles)

Pyla-sur-Mer has many beaches, which over the decades have become the seafronts of districts as such.
At the level of the historic heart of the resort and the Figuier traffic circle, the main beach is located, known as Pilat-Plage. 
To the north, there are the beaches of Pyla and Moulleau, and to the south, we distinguish the Petit Nice, the Lagoon, the Salie Nord and the Arbousiers.

Swimming and water sports are easily practiced on each of them.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Pyla sur Mer

Are there any events during the year in Pyla sur Mer?

Various events take place during the year in Pyla-sur-mer.

- In mid-April, regional kite-surfing cup.

- At the end of April, the Pyla in bloom exhibition.

- In mid-May, nature festival (workshops, fun activities, exhibitions).

- Every Sunday afternoon in July and August, art exhibitions on the Place Meller.

- On the first Wednesday of August, on the Place Meller, Les élégantes du Pyla revive the past of the resort with a fashion show and vintage cars.

- For the 15th of August festival, fireworks.













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