Need a short getaway for a weekend or longer? Looking for an authentic destination? Treat yourself to a few nights at Domaine de la Forge in Arcachon, Gironde, during your tourism stay in Arès. Located to the north of the Arcachon Bay, 4 km from Lège-Cap Ferret and Andernos-les-Bains, and just about 40 kilometers from our Aquitaine campsite, the town of Arès will charm you with its countless activities. Follow the guide!
Explore the Prés Salés
On foot or by bike, a walk in the heart of the national nature reserve of Prés Salés is an activity that will delight all ages, from children to adults. Situated halfway between Lège-Cap Ferret and Arès in Gironde, this natural park is one of the sites recommended by the local tourism office for its rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of plant species and hosts over 170 bird species as well as lizards and European pond turtles. One unique feature of this natural park in Arès is its landscapes, which change with the seasons and tides. Those fortunate enough to explore this natural wonder of Nouvelle Aquitaine strongly recommend being accompanied by a guide during the visit.
Discover the Ovniport
Continue your tourism exploration in Arès with a stroll along the Arcachon Bay. On the way, near the Arès Pier, you can't miss one of the town's main tourist attractions: the Ovniport. Built in 1976 thanks to the initiative of electronics expert Robert Cotten, this commemorative monument was designed to facilitate the reception and stay of visitors from other planets. Visiting this curiosity during your vacation will surely enchant and amuse your children. For more information about the Ovniport, you can visit the city's Tourism Office, where a detailed press kit on this stele is available.
Strolling Around the Oyster Port
For a better perspective of Arès, head to its oyster port. Whether on foot or by bike, this walk lets you enjoy the town’s unique charm while also engaging in nearby activities such as a boat excursion. Regularly welcoming curious visitors eager to discover the expertise of oyster farmers, the port of Arès is a key site of local tourism. Don’t hesitate to visit the oyster huts, a heritage of the Arcachon Basin, scattered along the port with your family. Sign up for organized tours to step into the shoes of an oyster farmer for a day. More information is available at the Arès Tourist Office.
Exploring the Domaine de Saint-Brice
Between the towns of Arès and Andernos-les-Bains, the Domaine de Saint-Brice spans over 97 hectares along the shores of the Arcachon Basin. Due to its rich biodiversity, the domain is protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral. Here, you can find a variety of water birds, otters, and a forest composed of pines and oaks. While exploring this natural area filled with forests, beaches, and ponds during your holiday, you can reach Pointe des Quinconces, a spot favored by actress Sarah Bernhardt during her stays in Andernos-les-Bains. Continue your walk along the coastal trail heading north. After crossing a wooden suspension bridge over the Cirès River, you’ll arrive at Saint-Brice Beach, where swimming and relaxation await you.
Enjoying the Beaches of Arès
Exploring Arès also means discovering its various beaches, such as:
- Arès Beach, stretching from the pier to the Wallerstein Clinic,
- Triangle Pereire Beach,
- Saint-Brice Beach,
- Grand Crohot Beach in Cap Ferret.
Recommended by the Arès Tourist Office, these addresses, which garner numerous positive reviews from internet users, allow you to enjoy water activities with your children while appreciating the natural charm of the region.
Try Shellfish Gathering
Like its neighbors Cap Ferret and Andernos, Arès is also an excellent spot for shellfish gathering. Explore the Arcachon Bay with a guide who masters this activity and knows the esteys like the back of their hand. Hunt for shellfish and crustaceans that inhabit the muddy areas, and take this opportunity to learn more about the fragility of this unique ecosystem. Arès, a warm and authentic town, is an ideal destination for tourism holidays in Nouvelle Aquitaine. Enhance your visit to Arès by staying at Domaine de la Forge, our charming open-air hotel, and discover the many attractions surrounding this beautiful locality. For more information, reviews, or advice on available activities in the town, feel free to reach out to our campsite near Arès or the Arès Tourist Office. Memorable holidays await you in Arès, in the southwest of France!