Imagine a hike where each step leaves a mark in the sand, where the path is shaped by the tides, and where the sunset is your only timer. Welcome to the great coastal crossing of the Southwest, from the Arcachon Bay to Biarritz, a timeless adventure, between ocean, forest, and endless sky.
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This totally unique trail is the GR® 8, also known as the “Atlantic Coast Path”, which connects Saint‑Brevin‑les‑Pins (Loire‑Atlantique) all the way to Hendaye (Pyrénées‑Atlantiques), passing through Arcachon, the Landes, and the Basque Country, over a marked route of 480 km.
An adventure with your feet in the sand
No need for complicated maps or strict GR guidelines: the path is the beach itself. You start from Arcachon, skirting the bay before heading straight south, in the shadow of the Dune du Pilat (no choice, it towers over you at 102 meters). Then, it’s the big start: 200 kilometers.of wild beaches, dotted with surfer villages, pine forests, and simple little joys.
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The stages? It's up to you to create them! Here are a few ideas:
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Biscarrosse, with its vibes of Gascon California.
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Mimizan, half retro, half cool.
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Contis, featuring its black and white lighthouse.
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Hossegor, the chic surf capital.
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Guéthary, a Basque postcard.
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And finally, Biarritz, the elegant pearl that caps off the journey like a cherry on top.
Here, no mountains to climb or passes to cross. Just the endless horizon, the soundtrack of the Atlantic waves, the warm sand beneath your feet, and that precious feeling of being free.
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Pack light: a backpack, a nice hat, sunscreen, and the love for the great outdoors!
We sleep wherever we can: camping, in a hostel, in a van, or under the stars in a tent for the more adventurous.
We eat local: oysters from the basin, grilled squid, canelés from the market, and enjoy chilled white wine at sunset.
Practical info (because we need some of that!)
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Distance: About 200 km
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Duration :
From 7 to 14 days depending on the pace (and swimming)
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Ideal period: From May to September
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Transport: TER trains at the Arcachon and Biarritz stations. Remember to plan for the return!
Tides, sun, and soft sand: the beach is beautiful but unpredictable. Leave early in the morning, walk at low tide, respect nature, and stay hydrated!
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