Arcachon, FranceDiscovering the Best of Arcachon
Summary: Exploring the Best of Arcachon: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.
Welcome to Arcachon! If you're planning to move to Arcachon, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Arcachon has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Arcachon.
Arcachon, a charming seaside town in southwestern France, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. One of the most iconic sites in Arcachon is the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Arcachon Bay, and the surrounding pine forest. Another must-see is the Winter Town (Ville d'Hiver), a residential area known for its beautiful 19th-century villas and the Sainte-Cécile observatory, offering panoramic views of the town. The Summer Town (Ville d'Été) is the commercial and touristic heart of Arcachon, with its beach, marina, and numerous shops and restaurants. The Notre-Dame Basilica is another notable site, a neo-Gothic church dating back to the 19th century. For nature lovers, the Bird Island and its traditional oyster huts is a must-visit, as well as the Mauresque Park, a beautiful city park with exotic plants and a stunning view over the bay.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Arcachon is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. Seafood lovers should not miss Chez Pierre, a renowned restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting. For a more upscale dining experience, La Co(o)rniche offers gourmet dishes with a stunning view of the Dune du Pilat. Le Patio is another popular choice, known for its creative cuisine and charming outdoor seating area. For those looking to enjoy the nightlife, Le Six Club is a trendy nightclub with a lively atmosphere and regular DJ sets. The Casino d'Arcachon is not only a place for gambling but also a venue for concerts and shows. For a more relaxed evening, many visitors enjoy a sunset drink at one of the beach bars like Club Plage Pereire or Corniche Café.
Recreational activities in Arcachon are largely centered around its beautiful natural surroundings. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as surfing and sailing. The Arcachon Yacht Club offers sailing courses and boat rentals for those interested. Hiking and cycling are also popular activities, with numerous trails in the surrounding forest and along the coastline. The Velodyssee, a long-distance cycling route, passes through Arcachon, making it a popular stop for cyclists. For those interested in golf, the Golf d'Arcachon is a beautiful 18-hole course located in the heart of the pine forest. Bird watching is another popular activity, especially on the Bird Island. For a more leisurely activity, visitors can take a boat tour of the bay, with several companies like Union des Bateliers Arcachonnais offering various tours. Finally, oyster tasting is a must-do in Arcachon, with many oyster farms like Chez Boulan offering tastings and tours.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Arcachon: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Arcachon, often join local clubs and organizations to meet people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These can include sports clubs, such as sailing or tennis clubs, as well as cultural organizations like local theater groups or art clubs. There are also language exchange groups where expats can practice their French while helping locals improve their English.In addition to joining clubs, expats often meet people through community events and festivals. Arcachon is known for its oyster festivals, summer concerts, and other local celebrations that bring the community together. These events provide a great opportunity for expats to mingle with locals and other expats.Expats can also meet people through volunteering. Many local charities and organizations welcome the help of expats, and this can be a rewarding way to give back to the community while making new friends.Another popular way for expats to meet people in Arcachon is through social media and online forums. There are several online communities and Facebook groups for expats living in Arcachon where members share advice, organize meetups, and support each other.Finally, simply exploring the city and frequenting local cafes, markets, and shops can lead to casual encounters and friendships. The people of Arcachon are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and many expats find that they quickly feel at home in this charming seaside town," said one expat living in Arcachon.
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We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
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French Riviera House Hunting - FRHWe are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Arcachon is often described as relaxed and peaceful. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and delicious seafood, providing a picturesque setting for those who choose to live and work there. The pace of life is slower than in larger cities, allowing expats and digital nomads to enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. The local community is welcoming and friendly, and while French is the main language spoken, many locals also speak English, making it easier for expats to communicate and integrate. The town is well-equipped with modern amenities, including high-speed internet, making it suitable for digital nomads. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as sailing, hiking, and cycling, and the town is also close to the famous Bordeaux wine region, offering opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours. The cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of France, reflecting the town's popularity as a tourist destination. However, many expats and digital nomads find the quality of life in Arcachon to be worth the extra expense. Despite its small size, Arcachon has a vibrant cultural scene, with regular events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The town also has a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing plenty of options for dining and shopping. Overall, Arcachon offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads," commented an expat living in Arcachon.
French Riviera House Hunting - FRHConnect
We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
French Riviera House Hunting - FRHWe are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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