Lacanau walks

An unmissable walk for nature-loving locals. The Étang de Cousseau Nature Reserve is a haven of tranquillity accessible all year round and features three viewing points (including two towers) from which to enjoy the landscape, wildlife and flora.

Most of the route consists of forest paths with a few sections on the road and cycle path. The hard surfaces are welcome as walking in the sand is tiring. You can enjoy views of the Étang du Cousseau and the Marais de Talaris with its flora and fauna. Le Moutchic and its calm waters, sailing boats, picnic spots and swimming areas. Finally, the ocean, with its rough waters that are perfect for surfers.

Walk to La Jenny via the beach, then return via the fire track and the cycle path through the pine trees.

The Atlantic Wall (Atlantikwall in German) is an extensive system of coastal fortifications built by the Third Reich during the Second World War along the western coast of Europe to prevent an invasion of the continent by the Allies from Great Britain. This walking trail follows the concrete road that served the blockhouses, which were used as forward posts.

In all seasons, Lac de Carcans Hourtin (the largest natural lake in France, 18 km long and 5 km wide) inspires tranquillity. We take the old La Gracieuse cycle path, which is unfortunately now in poor condition. It runs alongside theGR®8, the Way of St James, and leads from the Bombannes base to the tip of La Gracieuse on the western shore of the lake.

Walk along an old concrete track, 50 cm wide but clear, leading to the Étang de Langouarde and the Canal des Étangs. On the return journey, there are several options depending on the water level in the canal to reach the car park, as a marshy area has formed following the construction of the new lock.

Randonnée le long du Canal des Étangs qui dans cette partie ressemble à une petite rivière plutôt qu'à un canal. Balade effectuée en janvier avec un niveau d'eau très élevé, en été l'eau très basse laisse apparaitre des berges sableuses et des formations d'alios (mélange de grès et de fer).

This is a short, flat walk along the Canal des Étangs, between the D106E5 bridge and the Pas du Bouc bridge. On this section, the canal takes on the appearance and flow of a small river full of charm and wildness, a sort of miniature Amazon with orange-coloured waters. North of Pas du Bouc, it is still a canal, while south of the D106E5, it takes the name Courant de Lège and prepares to flow into the salt meadows of the Bassin d'Arcachon.

An easy hike through the woods on forest tracks.

Circular in Arès via the Tower, Dame Océane and the oyster port, then a route through the salt meadows. ⚠️ Dogs and bicycles are prohibited on the site of the Arès and Lège-Cap Ferret salt marsh nature reserve.

The second stage of the tour of the Arcachon Basin is very varied: crossing villages, walking along wild shores, arriving at the Domaine de Certes and Graveyron, where other hikes can be done, and the pleasant town of Audenge. If you only do one stage, this is the one to choose.

A round trip along the gulf, starting from an oyster farming village, followed by a short circular route in Andernos to enjoy a pretty wood and a small river. On the way back, to extend the hike, I suggest a round trip through the salt marshes.The Visorando app is highly recommended in the woods of Andernos.

This easy circular route through the vineyards with little tarmac road takes you past Château Lestage, a ruined windmill and Château Fonréaud.

A pleasant family walk offering the chance to discover the beautiful fountain at Bernos and the magnificent church at Benon, as well as the pretty houses in Bernos and Benon.

Hiking in the Contaut lagoon via trails through the dunes, marshes and forests. Beautiful views of the Étang de Contaut and Lac de Hourtin. Discover the flora and fauna, paths and trails with some elevation changes and some sandy sections.

A lovely family walk near Saint-Laurent-Médoc. The farm tracks are lined with small water channels, including a larger one, the Jalle du Nord. This walk passes through an area of significant ecological importance: the marshes in the eastern section. This area is designated as a Natura 2000 site. The ecological balance is under threat due to the abandonment of extensive wetland management in favour of the development of intensive poplar cultivation.

Known for its vineyards and wines, the Médoc is a land steeped in history dating back to ancient times. This hike allows you to discover the medieval fortresses of this region. From the commune of Saint-Sauveur, you will cross the Médoc vineyards to reach the châteaux of Breuil, Lamothe-Cissac and Fontesteau. These three properties date back to the Middle Ages and even further.