The Arcachon Basin and the Landes coast are treasures of the French Atlantic coast. They cannot be better discovered than by bicycle. Let yourself be charmed by an adventure on the greenway from Arcachon to Léon. This Landes section of one of the most beautiful greenways in Europe will leave you with lasting memories.
Lhe greenway from Arcachon in Gironde to Léon in the Landes is a section of the Vélodyssée, the famous 1 km circuit that links Roscoff to Hendaye. Taking this greenway from Arcachon is an opportunity to let yourself be drawn into a fabulous journey to discover the dune of Pilat and the Landes lands. A course laid out on the edge of magnificent sandy beaches and extraordinary oceanic landscapes.
From Arcachon to the Dune of Pilat
To begin with, the connection from Arcachon to the Dune du Pilat allows you to fully enjoy the joys of two-wheelers. The cycle path connecting these two points is in fact flat, secure and fully marked. Thus, young and old can pedal on this green route without the slightest difficulty. Before arriving at their destination, cyclists have the opportunity to stop for a stroll in the middle of the stalls of the famous Arcachon market. It is also possible to go through the famous Pereire beach, characterized by its long promenade.
From this beach, athletes then walk along the coast towards the highest dune in Europe, and its 55 million cubic meters of sand. They can then leave the bikes in the dedicated parking lots, and set off on foot to attack the famous and emblematic Dune du Pilat. The superb panoramic view of the Landes forest, the Arcachon Basin, the Banc d'Arguin, and sometimes even the Pyrenees, is quite simply exceptional. Thrill guaranteed for all the brave who reach the top.
From the Dune du Pilat to Mimizan Plage
After this magical experience on the Dune du Pilat, it is finally time to head for Biscarosse. Cyclists then pass in the heart of the Landes forest. They then cycle on the long, well-maintained cycle paths. A stopover is essential in this dynamic city in order to enjoy a short swim or a boat trip. The beaches of Caton, Navarrosse or Sainte-Eulalie-en-Born offer a restorative swim. Then the greenway takes cycle tourists to discover Parentis-en-Born, Sainte-Eulalie-en-Born and the Aureilhan pond. A few more efforts through the forest and a few steep climbs before reaching Mimizan-Plage, known for its ten kilometers of fine sandy beaches. Particular vigilance is however required in this zone, since in the agglomeration of Mimizan, the journey is made on the road.
From Mimizan to Léon along the ocean
To end the journey between Mimizan-Plage and Contis, the walker continues his adventures through the woods, in the shade of maritime pines. The exceptional landscape and the sea breeze are faithful traveling companions during this unforgettable walk. The route that along the ocean to the south ends near the Léon pond. This body of water is the starting point of the Huchet current, a real umbilical cord between the pond and the ocean. A small boat trip and a picnic break are then required on this current, rich in its biodiversity and its traditions, which is the high point of this invigorating and wild journey on the greenway from Arcachon to Léon!