Travelers the world over tip their caps to Cap Ferret
An unassuming fishing village that's been transformed into a tranquil vacation destination, Cap Ferret is surrounded by water and pine trees, and filled with expert oyster fishermen. The Atlantic Ocean surges to the west, providing stunning views but waves too rough for swimming. The Bay of Arcachon balances things out to the east, with equally fab views but warmer waters. Honeymooners come for candlelit dinners of freshly caught seafood. Families come for swimming and bike rides. Nature lovers come for the sand dunes and seabirds. Book a Cap Ferret vacation rental and enjoy.
Even easily bored kids can't complain in Cap Ferret
Beaches, bays, and peaceful relaxation are what draw most people to Cap Ferret, but there are plenty of ways to engage the whole family nearby. Take the little ones to the "petit train" (little train, in English. And yes, it's as cute as it sounds.) that runs from the seaside jetties to the bay side of town. On the opposite side of the bay you'll find Aqualand, a water park with slides and a wave pool. Also on the Arcachon side of the bay is Musee de la Maquette Marine, a museum of model ships.
Pretty views of the sea, yummy views of your dinner plate
It's easy to take in the beauty of Cap Ferret on foot. For the best views of the ocean, hike up to La Pointe du Cap Ferret on the southwestern tip of the headland. Look for the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. You can walk back to your Cap Ferret vacation rental along a nature trail with more views of the ocean. Swim in the bay to work up an appetite (the waters are calmer there), and then remember that you're in the oyster capital of the world and head to the nearest seafood restaurant.
Summertime, and the livin' is easy in Cap Ferret
The climate surrounding your Cap Ferret vacation rental will be pitch perfect in summer, with average temps in the 70s and 80s, and sunny skies. It's also when vacationers make the peninsula their playground, so make sure you book your favorite spot well in advance. Late fall isn't such a bad idea either. You'll miss the crowds and average temps are still in the 50s. Winters are chilly and damp, and you'll likely find lower prices. Just remember that many restaurants and shops close up from December to April.
Your dinner might be hiding in the mud flats near Cap Ferret
Cap Ferret's proximity to wind and water make it a haven for wildlife. It's against the law to build on the peninsula's Atlantic coast, which means the western edge of town is strictly sand dunes and the occasional shrub. To the east, in the Arcachon Bay, you'll find the Ile aux Oiseaux (or Isle of Birds), which includes 8 square miles of protected land occupied gratefully by migrating terns. If you'd like more active engagement with the animals, you can make like a local and try fishing for clams in the mud flats on the bay.
Transportation to and around Cap-Ferret
Fly into Merignac Airport (BOD), the closest airport, located 30.7 mi (49.4 km) from the city center.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing