Arcachon

Beaches, sand-banks, islets, saltings, rivers, inlets and marshes surround the vast expanse of water where fishermen, oyster-breeders and sports lovers mingle. The Arguin Sand-Bank, a migratorv bird reserve and the unusual, serene Island of Birds are also an integral part of the soul of the Bay of Arcachon. Here, the age-old tradition of oyster farming reigns supreme.

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In a truly exceptional setting, sit back and enjoy the delights of the local food produce, with freshly caught fish, and seafood's platters. With a glass of Bordeaux wine, discover the gastronomic pleasures of SouthWest France.

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Built on the hillside, with often one of the best view on the bay, these houses still generate an elegant and oldie atmosphere. Emperor Napoleon III, the musician Debussy or the famous painter Toulouse-Lautrec all stayed here, and has left here and there, memories to be mulled over, and stories to be passed on....simply follow the guide!

The variety and the number of wild birds species varies from day to day. This natural reserve is open to the public from 10am to 6 p.m. every day on the year. Entrance fee is about 2 $. Several walking trails are available, from easy track for child to a long daytime tour. It is really a paradise to birds and birdwatchers.

Black Jack: this is a card game in which the player participates actively making decisions and playing against the casino. The aim of the game is to score as near 21 as possible, preferably with two cards, without going over that.

Roulette is a game of chance whose main characteristic in that the players bet against the casino. The aim of the game is to guess on which number of the wheel will the ball thrown by the croupier drop. The cylinder is divided into 37 boxes alternatively black and red and numbered from 1 to 36, plus zero, which is in a green box. Chips (never cash), must be used to bet on the roulette.

The "Boule", also named the roulette of the poor. It looks like to a roulette with less numbers. The scale with a central race shows 4 rows of nine holes numbered from 1 to 9. The rubber "boule" will fall in one of these boxes to specify the wining number. The holes 1,3,6 and 8 are black. The holes 2,4,7 and 9 are red. The hole 5 is yellow. The bets on the even chances allow you to win the same amount in your bet. The bet on a one number straight up are paid at 8 to 1.

Of course you could find the very popular machine in a separated room where no special attire is required.

One km away is the Peireire Beach. A very large beach with a nice lawn where you could practice sport. On the extremity the Moulleau beach is the most select, home of French TV stars or local famous politicians. In summer the temperature of the water is usually between 21° and 23° Celsius.

Wooden stairs will help you to climb the dune. From the top the panorama is unique on the bay and the ocean. The dune is 6 km from Arcachon town. The parking costs about one $.