Welcome to Our Page Dedicated to the Dune of Pilat!
Located on the Atlantic coast, between Arcachon and Biscarrosse, the Dune of Pilat is one of the highest sand dunes in Europe, reaching an altitude of over 110 meters. Situated in Le Pyla sur Mer, discover its fascinating history:
Le Pyla sur Mer
oday, Pyla sur Mer is a popular seaside resort located on the Silver Coast at the entrance of the Arcachon Basin, attracting tourists from all over the world. Nestled in the forest of La Teste-de-Buch, it features the towering Dune of Pilat, standing 107 meters high, making it the largest in Europe. The dune contains about 55 million cubic meters of sand and spans 6,800 hectares, which are classified and protected. Its fame is attributed to the majestic Dune of Pilat.
The development of Pyla sur Mer began in the 1920s, driven by two key figures: Daniel Meller, the founder of Pyla-sur-Mer, and entrepreneur Louis Gaume. Their vision was to transform it into a prestigious resort, modeled after Biarritz. Amidst the forest, the distinct Landes house, a single-story home with brown beams and shutters, emerged alongside Basque-style houses. In this exceptional environment, a small community of privileged individuals settled.
At that time, the area around the Dune of Pilat, between Moulleau and the Salie beach, was inhospitable, with winds and sandstorms. The transformation began when an entrepreneur extended development south of Arcachon and Le Moulleau, building La Co(o)rniche and Ha(a)ïtza. Luxurious hotels and villas were constructed in the pine forests, adopting the Basque-Landes architectural style.
The Arcachon Basin and the area around Pyla offer numerous activities: sailing, boating, tennis, surfing in Biscarrosse, paragliding from the dune, beach outings, walks, gastronomic tastings, and visiting oyster huts.
The Dune of Pilat
Did you know that?
The dune is called “Pilat,” derived from the Gascon word “Pilot,” meaning “heap” or “mound,” a spelling found on maps from the 18th century. Conversely, the nearby seaside resort, Pyla-sur-Mer, founded in the 1920s by real estate developer Daniel Meller, adopted the spelling “Pyla” for a more exotic sound.
The formation of the Dune of Pilat occurred over the last 4,000 years in five phases. Sand accumulation happened intermittently, influenced by periods of cold, dry, windy climates and warmer, wetter climates that promoted vegetation growth.
The dune showcases a desert-like summit but supports diverse biodiversity at its base, with vegetation such as yellow iris, reeds, and willow.
Around 1860, marine erosion and coastline advance caused the dune’s vegetation to disappear, leading to the reformation of the dune. The new dune, La Grave, eventually buried the previous one, becoming the Dune of Pilat, which continues to advance 3 to 4 meters per year.
This natural wonder attracts thousands of visitors annually, captivated by its beauty and immensity. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to visit:
How to get there?
The Dune of Pilat is accessible by road, train, or boat. If traveling by car, a large parking lot is available. The nearest train station is La Teste-de-Buch, about 10 kilometers from the dune. For a unique experience, take a boat from Arcachon to the foot of the dune.
What to do on Site?
Upon arrival, you’ll be struck by the stunning landscape. Walk along the marked paths to the top of the dune and enjoy a panoramic view of the Landes forest, the Arcachon Basin, and the Atlantic Ocean. If you enjoy board sports, try paragliding or sandboarding on the dune.
What should I know?
The Dune of Pilat is a protected natural site, so it’s crucial to respect the environment. Stay on marked paths, avoid picking plants, and dispose of waste properly. Beware of falling sand, which can be hazardous for children and the elderly.
The Dune of Pilat is a natural site of exceptional beauty that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. By respecting the environment and safety rules, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience and discover one of the jewels of the French Atlantic coast.