Cabane tchanquée, Wooden fisherman's hut at Arcachon Basin, France
The Cabane tchanquée is a traditional fisherman's hut built on tall wooden stilts that rise directly from the water of Arcachon Basin. It has white shutters and forms a solitary structure set against the coastal landscape of southwestern France.
The structure was built in the late 1800s to serve as a watchtower and storage space for local fishermen during the early expansion of oyster farming. Over time it evolved to reflect changing methods and the growing commercial importance of the basin.
The hut tells the story of how local fishermen lived and worked directly on the water, adapting their daily routines to the rhythms of tides and seasons. People see in it a connection to oyster farming traditions that shaped communities around the basin.
Access to the hut is only possible by boat from La Teste-de-Buch, so plan ahead for organized tours. Weather conditions play a big role in visit timing, with spring and summer generally offering the most reliable conditions.
This hut underwent a complete renovation some years ago to strengthen its structure while keeping its traditional appearance intact. A neighboring companion hut remains in its original condition, giving visitors a sense of what the older buildings looked like before restoration.
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