Between the ocean and the Arcachon Bay, Cap Ferret has a richer history than you might think: from the first oyster farmers to the traces of the Second World War, all the way to the village festivals of L’Herbe and Claouey. Here is what you need to know to understand the peninsula, and what to see when you are there.
For art lovers, this place has inspired many works, capturing the unique light and serenity of the area. At Laguilb, our paintings pay tribute to this beauty by capturing iconic Cap Ferret landscapes. Each work is an invitation to travel and to take home a piece of this very special place.
Cap Ferret: a place full of memories
Cap Ferret, the famous peninsula of the Arcachon Bay, is not only known for its fabulous landscapes. Its rich and fascinating history bears witness to the many changes that have shaped this unique peninsula.
Natural and human origins
Before it became a favourite destination for holidaymakers and artists, Cap Ferret was above all a wild place, shaped by the forces of nature. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Arcachon Bay, the peninsula was once a stretch of shifting dunes, sculpted by the sea winds and covered with maritime pine forests.
However, the resources of the Arcachon Bay eventually attracted the first inhabitants. Local fishermen and oyster farmers were among the first to settle here. The Bay, rich in fish and shellfish, was a priceless natural treasure. Its calm, shallow waters were ideal for small-scale fishing, while wild oysters quickly became a key resource.
Cap au Vent – Cap Ferret, 1954
The first oyster farms appeared in the 19th century. This isolated land then became a centre of economic activity, attracting new families who helped shape the identity of the peninsula. With its fabulous landscapes just an hour’s drive from Bordeaux, Cap Ferret truly feels like another world.
A past marked by the Second World War
During the Second World War, Cap Ferret became a strategic position for the German forces. Bunkers and fortifications, still visible today, were built along the beaches to watch over the Atlantic Ocean and a possible Allied landing. Some beaches and dunes were once off limits because of the risk of leftover shells or explosives. These remains recall a dark period of history, while offering curious visitors a glimpse into the past today.
Today, Cap Ferret is both a living testimony to its past and a source of inspiration. Its landscapes and history continue to enchant those who discover it. Cap Ferret is much more than a destination: it is a story told through its dunes, its villages and its memories, one that keeps unfolding with the winds and the tides.
What to visit in Cap Ferret?
The oyster villages
Cap Ferret’s oyster villages, such as L’Herbe, Le Canon and Piraillan, offer a dive into local authenticity. These picturesque hamlets, with their colourful wooden huts, tell the story of oyster farming, an age-old activity on the Arcachon Bay. You will find huts, flower-lined paths and tasting restaurants. You can enjoy fresh oysters straight from the farmers, with a glass of white wine, all facing a stunning view of the Bay.
The lighthouse
The iconic Cap Ferret lighthouse, built in 1840, is a must for every visitor. Climb its 258 steps and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama: the Arcachon Bay, the majestic Dune du Pilat and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretch out before your eyes. This exceptional viewpoint also helps you understand the unique geography of the peninsula, with its mix of beaches, forests and sandbanks.
At the foot of the lighthouse, a fascinating museum takes you into the maritime history of the area. You will learn about the history of the lighthouse and its vital role in safety at sea, as well as the powerful currents that run through the area and the dangers they pose. It also explains natural phenomena such as shifting sandbanks, which constantly reshape the landscape and affect navigation in the Arcachon Bay.
A visit to the Cap Ferret lighthouse is much more than a tourist stop: it is a real immersion in the history, nature and mysteries of the Arcachon Bay.
The Point
Cap Ferret Point is an exceptional place, where the rough waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet the calm of the Arcachon Bay. Known to locals as “les Passes”, this wild area offers an impressive natural spectacle. The coastal path along the ocean is perfect for an immersive walk to admire the raw beauty of this unique place.
However, the beach at the Point is closed, because of the strong currents that make swimming dangerous and to protect the particularly vulnerable dunes. Every year, the Point is reshaped by the waves and currents, a sign of the power of the elements that constantly redraw this fragile landscape.
For photography lovers, Cap Ferret Point is a real gem. The contrasts between ocean, sand and dunes offer spectacular views. This fascinating and ever-changing place is strictly protected to preserve its natural riches for future generations. A visit to the Point is an unforgettable experience, and also an invitation to think about how important it is to protect such precious places.
To discover the peninsula from the water, a 2-hour cruise from Arcachon goes around Bird Island and along Cap Ferret.
The beaches
Cap Ferret is lined with magnificent beaches, each offering a unique experience. On the Bay side, the beaches are ideal for families, with calm, shallow water, perfect for young children. These peaceful beaches are also great for relaxing, with a soothing view over the Arcachon Bay.
On the ocean side, the atmosphere is very different, dominated by big waves and the energy of the Atlantic. The famous Horizon beach is a favourite with surfers and lovers of wide open spaces. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, you can improve your surfing with Alex, a well-known local instructor. Afterwards, enjoy the friendly atmosphere at Doni’s, a popular spot for a snack or a cool drink while taking in the view.
Five minutes away, Truc Vert beach on the ocean side is ideal for those looking for a quieter experience. Easy to reach thanks to a handy car park, this vast beach can be accessed by boardwalks or straight across the sand.
And of course, no visit to Cap Ferret would be complete without a magical sunset. The golden and pink hues that light up the sky and the ocean create a breathtaking show not to be missed. Whether you are alone, as a couple or with friends, it will be one of the most memorable moments of your stay.
The local markets
Cap Ferret’s markets, such as those in the centre, Claouey or Piraillan, are must-visit places to discover the authentic flavours of the area. Fresh fish, seafood, regional produce and local crafts come together in a friendly, warm atmosphere typical of the peninsula.
At the covered market in the centre, be sure to visit our partner Mours Fruits et Légumes. You will be welcomed by the Mours family, known for their expertise and warm welcome. They will advise you on the best produce for a tasty, balanced summer salad. The stall is full of fresh fruit and vegetables, carefully selected by the family.
Visiting these markets also means soaking up a unique atmosphere, where locals and visitors mingle. An essential stop to treat your taste buds and fully enjoy the spirit of Cap Ferret.
Places of worship
Notre-Dame-des-Flots church in Cap Ferret is a haven of peace and contemplation. This charming church, with its simplicity and its privileged setting, offers a real spiritual break. It also enjoys an exceptional view of its surroundings.
To capture this unique view, our website features a painting of the Place de l’Église, drawn from a boat. It perfectly captures the church’s architecture rising majestically over the landscape, offering a rare and striking perspective. A true tribute to this serene place, where every visitor can reconnect with the nature and history of Cap Ferret.
Discover our painting of Notre-Dame-des-Flots church in Cap Ferret
Cap Ferret traditions: between land, sea and festivals
A symbol of the bond between the locals and the Bay, the blessing of the boats is still a strong tradition in Cap Ferret. Since the 1960s (as this photo shows), this ritual marks the launch of a new boat, whether for fishing or pleasure sailing.
- Each boat is given a unique name, often chosen by the family.
- The moment includes a symbolic blessing and the ritual of breaking a bottle on the bow, a sign of luck and safety.
- The people of Cap Ferret then get together for a friendly meal, with plenty of white wine and Arcachon Bay oysters.
Blessing of the boats in Cap Ferret, 1960s
The L’Herbe festival
One of the most iconic events, the L’Herbe festival celebrates oyster farming and local heritage.
You can taste freshly opened oysters with white wine and buttered bread. Concerts and children’s activities fill the day. It is a chance to discover the oyster huts, specially opened for the event.
The Claouey festival
More focused on fun and water sports, the Claouey festival is a moment of sharing between locals and visitors.
Every year, you will find the famous pinasse regatta on the Bay, stalls of local specialities, craft markets and evening concerts. There is also a funfair for the little ones.
Pinasses, true icons of the Arcachon Bay, hold a special place in the history and culture of Cap Ferret. Originally designed for fishermen and oyster farmers, these elegant boats, with their slender hulls and shallow draught, are perfectly suited to the shallow waters of the Bay.
Today, pinasses are much more than a working tool. They embody the Cap Ferret way of life, combining tradition and pleasure.
Carefully restored by passionate boatbuilders, pinasses keep a unique local craft alive. Watching them sail on the Bay takes you to the very heart of life in Cap Ferret, where authenticity and nature meet.
Frequently asked questions about Laguilb
We offer two kinds of paintings:
- One-of-a-kind paintings ready to buy: original works showing iconic places, often inspired by striking landscapes such as those of Cap Ferret or other places full of memories.
- Custom paintings: made-to-measure works based on your memories, your photos or places that are special to you, whether it is your house in Cap Ferret or somewhere close to your heart.
The process has four steps:
- Talking and gathering ideas: share your photos, or meet us on site, especially if you are near Cap Ferret.
- Creating the work: we create a painting that faithfully reflects your place and your emotions, whether it is a house in Cap Ferret or somewhere else.
- Review and finishing: you approve each stage (sketch, colours, final drawing).
- Choosing the frame and printing: choose a classic or made-to-measure frame, with a handcrafted option made in Cap Ferret.
To find out more about custom paintings, click here (in French).
For now, we only deliver to mainland France. If you are in the Cap Ferret area, we can arrange a hand delivery on request.
Before the work is finished, you can ask for adjustments during the review stages (sketch, colours, details). Once approved, the work can no longer be changed.
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