You already know that we at Travel in Pink adore Europe as it is – beyond the mainstream touristic brochures and shiny advertisements. That’s why today we are taking you to one of the most atmospheric natural retreats in France – the Cap Ferret headland.

Check out our little guide and prepare yourself for a private off-beat voyage.

What is Cap Ferret?

Cap Ferret is an 11-mile-long thin spit, covered with golden sands and lush pines. The place is rather virgin and uncivilized – it has a few places to stay or grab a meal, but still, it offers a somewhat naturalistic atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city centers.

The slim tongue of Cap Ferret divides the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Arcachon Bay to the east. These rural lands have traditionally been a romantic getaway from the locals – with their vintage yachts, wooden cottages, and fishers boats.

Location and getting there

Cap Ferret is located in the southern part of the Lège-Cap-Ferret commune, in the department of Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It is established west of Bordeaux, and you will need about an hour to take the drive between them.

Cap Ferret is approachable by road, by a passenger ferry from Arcachon, or by a charming narrow-gauge railway called Petit train du Cap-Ferret.

What to see and do around

As we already mentioned, Cap Ferret is a place to enjoy the stillness of the wastelands, the virgin nature, and the authentic Gallican vibe.

Some of the most enjoyable things to do around the headland include:

• Go birdwatching at the “Bird Island”
• Kayak, surf, or sail in the turquoise waters
• Sunbathe at the golden virgin beaches
• Visit the emblematic local lighthouse
• Climb the Dune of Pilat
• Stroll or ride a bike around the beaches and the forests of the headland
• Visit one of the local taste huts and terraces to enjoy freshly picked oysters, whelks, and shrimp
• Sail on the boats of oyster farmers and get to know the local fishing traditions
• Visit the vivid Cap Ferret market to supply yourself with some local food picks and unique little treasures
  
  

Are you not ready to leave yet? You can always stay at one of the small family-ran hotels, huts, and cottages around and prolong your delightful oblivion for as long as you’d like to.