Getting to the Dune du Pilat from Le Moulleau and Arcachon

The Dune du Pilat is the highest sand dune in Europe. It is just over 100 m high (103.6 m when it was measured in 2023) and stretches for nearly 3 km between the ocean and the forest. It is in the commune of La Teste-de-Buch, just south of Pyla-sur-Mer. From Le Moulleau it is about 7 km away, and you can see it from the beach.

By bike: our tip

Cycling is the nicest way to get there, especially in summer when the car parks fill up. From Le Moulleau, follow the cycle path south towards Pyla-sur-Mer and then the dune: the route runs along the coast and then through the forest. It is mostly flat, with a few climbs as you approach Pyla. Allow half an hour at an easy pace.

At the foot of the dune, the visitor area has racks to lock your bike. Bring a lock.

By bus

Baïa buses link Arcachon station and Le Moulleau with the Dune du Pilat, with more services in summer. Routes and timetables change with the season: check them on the Baïa network website before you go.

By car

The dune’s car park charges a fee and fills up fast in July and August, often by late morning. Come early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The roads through Pyla are also very busy at midday in summer: bikes and buses avoid the traffic.

Climbing the dune

The dune is free to visit. During the tourist season, a staircase of about 150 steps makes the climb easier. The rest of the year you climb straight up the sand, which takes a bit more effort but is manageable for most walkers.

From the top, the view takes in the ocean, the Banc d’Arguin sandbank, the mouth of the bay and Cap Ferret on one side, and the Landes forest on the other. The Banc d’Arguin is a nature reserve where many seabirds nest.

When to go

• Morning: fewer people, cooler sand and lovely light over the bay.
• Late afternoon: the sunset over the ocean is spectacular, but very busy in summer.
• Avoid: the middle of the day in July and August, when the sand gets scorching and there is no shade.

What to bring

• Water, a hat and sunscreen: there is no shade on the dune.
• Shoes that are easy to take off: walking barefoot on the sand is easier, unless it is too hot.
• A windbreaker: it is often very windy at the top.
• Stay on the marked paths at the edge of the forest, and don’t smoke: the forest is highly prone to fires.

Starting from Le Moulleau

From Cœur Moulleau, our flat 50 m from Le Moulleau beach, you can set off by bike straight away: two bikes are included. Our guide to things to do in Le Moulleau has more ideas for the rest of your stay.