60km north of Arcachon, Lacanau is situated by the Atlantic Ocean, boasting fine sandy beaches, a lake and a beautiful pine forest. The waterfront at Lacanau-Ocean is very attractive: shops and restaurants along a large beach similar to those in Southern California. South and North of Lacanau, the surroundings are wilder, sand dunes and beaches stretch as far as the eye can see... IN and AROUND LACANAU: Explore the Medoc vineyards (Medoc, Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion...). Visit the town of Bordeaux (60km away) - capital of the Aquitaine region with an elegant riverfront dating to the 18th century'. The mediaeval town of Saint-Emilion (100km),the Cousseau lake Nature Reserve, Cadaujac Animal Park (12km from Bordeaux) with more than 1000 species. Boat trips on the arcachon lake, to Ile des Oiseaux...
The Landes region is that part of France further down the Atlantic Coast where the beaches get wider and sandier and forests get denser. Aquitaine and Pays Basque form parts of it. The lakes, pine forests and sand dunes are ideal for a relaxing holiday, while the proximity of cities like Bordeaux,Bayonne and Biarritz means that you can take time out to soak up some culture as well as the sun.
Be a guest to one of the world's most exclusive tables. France, land of gourmets and culinary arts, offers a bewildering array of food and wines from delicious simple fare to exquisite haute cuisine. With over 340 sorts of cheese and 450 quality wines France will satisfy every palate. Beyond gastronomy, from North to South France sparkles with an incredibly rich cultural and historical heritage of famous castles, churches, cathedrals and museums carefully preserved and restored which makes it one the most sought afterand enthralling destination for holidaymakers from around the globe. France takes prides in the rich and diverse tapestry of its magnificent landscapes which have been celebrated throughout the centuries by its many famous writers, poets and artists in words and creations so many of which have become part of the world's cultural heritage and still inspire today's travellers to discover it for themselves. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or want to commune with Nature, whether you wish to step back into history or are searching for an active sporting adventure, France will welcome you with open arms, seduce you with its warmth and entertain you with its wide range of attractions enabling you to achieve that perfect holiday.
A word of advice from Lagrange: French roads are excellent, but not free, so keep some euros handy.
A land reputed for its gastronomy, the Gironde area is located in the north of Aquitaine, running from the mouth of the river bearing the same name up to the resort of Biscarosse-Plage, with landscapes of incomparable beauty along the way. Large beaches, quaint villages built in the local style, lakes for swimmers and fishermen alike, towns with a historic past...this is a many facets region with several museums and local crafts shops bound to please everyone. From pine forests to deserted dunes, Gironde will surprise you through its great variety of landscapes. You can take a break in Bordeaux, known the world over for its high-quality wines, or go to Arcachon for a bit of oyster tasting. No really, Gironde is ideal for a holiday whenever the season...