Banc d’Arguin

You can enjoy beautiful views of the sandbank, which was first classified a nature reserve in 1972, either on a boat tour or from the top of the Dune du Pilat

The Banc d’Arguin is the largest sandbank off the Gironde coast, measuring 4 km by 2 km at low tide.

Located at the mouth of Arcachon Bay, its shape constantly shifts because of the tides. If you are lucky enough to set foot there, you will see busy oyster farmers and the perpetual ballet of sandwich terns and other migratory birds.

A "moving" sandbank

Winds and tides are transforming the sandbank. Its shape is always changing. From one year to another, the snadbank is getting closer or farther from the Dune depending on the elements. The part of the sandbank which is only visible at low tide is called « l’estran ».

A lot of natural resources

A part of the sandbank is protected in order to help fauna and flora to develop. The banc d’Arguin houses a classified plant : « la linaire à feuilles de thym ». Fauna is also very present (insects, shellfishs,......) to the delights of the birds.

Migratory birds

The site is located upon one of the biggest European's flyway. Most of the birds are passing by like the limicoles. The reserve also preserve some nesting species such as the Sterne caugek (1800 couples in 1974, 2500 couples in 2012), the huîtrier pie, or the Gravelot à collier interrompu...