South West Atlantic Coast

The south west Atlantic coast is a popular region stretching from the Charentes as far as the Pyrenees and the Spanish border. It is characterised by endless sandy beaches, offshore fishing and a broad band of rich marsh and farmland. The region produces excellent seafood, particularly oysters, whilst inland there are famous vineyards producing a wide range of wines that include some of the best in the world. There are towns of great historical interest like La Rochelle and Bordeaux. South west of the historic city of Bordeaux you will find Les Landes, the largest continuously forested area in western Europe. Towards the Spanish border you enter the vibrant Basque country and the stylish resorts of Biarritz and St Jean-de-Luz. Just south of Arcachon is the spectacular Dune du Pilat, at 110 m high, it is the highest sand dune in Europe!