Arcachon, Coastal commune in Gironde, France
Arcachon is a commune on the French Atlantic coast in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, located around 55 kilometers (34 miles) southwest of Bordeaux. Wide sandy beaches stretch along the waterfront, while behind them an elevated quarter nestles into wooded terrain.
Napoleon III founded the commune in 1857 when the railway from Bordeaux was extended here and a new seaside resort emerged. The elevated quarter developed shortly after as a retreat for visitors seeking dry air and pine scent.
Belle Époque wooden villas cluster around the Parc Mauresque, where ornate balconies and steep roofs rise among pine trees. Visitors walk through this quarter and discover the architecture that once drew spa guests from across France.
Travelers reach the town by train from Bordeaux or drive along the coastal road beside the bay. Many move around on foot or by bicycle, and boat tours from the harbor offer views across the water.
Oyster parks fill shallow waters of the bay, and at low tide workers walk between the racks to sort shellfish. Visitors see these structures from the shore and watch the water recede, exposing wooden stakes.
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