New assets on the Atlantic Coast

Must-see sites and slow tourism activities 

The iconic Cordouan Lighthouse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Known as the "Versailles of the Seas", the Cordouan lighthouse, classified as Unesco World Heritage in 2021, is the oldest lighthouse in Europe still in activity and open to the public. Situated in the open sea, this lighthouse bears witness to four centuries of navigation in the estuary and can be visited from April to October, from Le Verdon-sur-Mer.
From the top of its 67.5 m, the Cordouan lighthouse stands proudly at the entrance to the Gironde estuary and offers an exceptional view combining land and sea.

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UNESCO sites in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The port of La Cotinière, a 360° view

On Ile d'Oléron island, La Cotinière port is the leading artisanal fishing port in Nouvelle-Aquitaine and ranks 7th nationally.
Renowned for the quality of its products, in 2022 the port will be equipped with new infrastructures and a 1.5 km promenade which will pass through the roof terrace of the buildings overlooking the landing quay.
This pedestrian access will allow you to enjoy an exceptional view of the port. It is completed by a discovery itinerary, with information on the different fishing techniques used by the fishermen of Oleron.

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Tandem waterbike on the lake of Biscarrosse, in Les Landes

Fun, fast and accessible for visitors aged + and up, Waterbike or "bike on water" is an excellent way to explore nature and the banks of Biscarrosse lake. Newly available at Aqui Bikes (port of Navarosse) a fun tandem version.
It's as easy to ride as a road bike and as stable as a boat.
4 routes from 1 hour to 3 hours 30 minutes are available to discover the 5.000 hectares bordered by pine trees and the lake’s fine sandy beaches.

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Micro-adventures on electric quad bikes in the Basque Country

Based in Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle, near the Basque coast, Rando Eko offers supervised Swincar outings (electric, silent and innovative all-terrain vehicles).
Explore the Basque Country off the beaten track, with panoramic views of the Basque mountains and the bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Between 1 and 3 hours all year round, accessible to all visitors, from beginners to experts.

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Upmarket and intimate accommodation

Hemen luxury hotel***** at Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, on the wild coast 

Just 5 km from Royan, opposite the UNESCO listed Cordouan Lighthouse, the 5* Hemen luxury hotel is now open. In a warm and discreet atmosphere, the hotel offers services dedicated to well-being in a listed villa with a sea view and a decor inspired by California.
Renovations have given the building back its former glory: green wooden cladding, white wooden fencing and balconies, oleander and umbrella pine vegetation.
The hotel will eventually offer a dozen rooms and suites. For the moment, three rooms are ready, including a suite offering direct access to the swimming pool.

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Boutique-Hôtel on the beach, at Contis in Les Landes

Just 500 m from Contis beach, known for its preserved nature adapted to outdoor sports, the Boutique-Hotel "Coté Phare" was imagined by Carol Benquet, a former decorating journalist in Paris, and her partner.
The hotel’s 6 rooms with terraces and decorated with care, is ideal for a relaxing weekend or a longer stay, before or after high season.
The adjoining concept store showcases products by local craftsmen and women for local and solidarity shopping.

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Hôtel de la Plage, seaside hotel Biarritz 

Halfway between Villa Belza and the Rocher de la Vierge, Hôtel de la Plage in Biarritz has been reborn as a trendy Boutique-Hotel, while retaining its legendary authenticity.

The hotel, which is in the process of a 4-star classification, has 20 rooms and a roof-top where you can enjoy a selection of cocktails.

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