Lège-Cap Ferret captivates both locals and tourists with its unspoiled nature, breathtaking landscapes, delicious oysters, and relaxed way of life. While this destination gains popularity every year, the Village de l'Herbe, a quaint and charming spot nestled on the peninsula, remains a hidden gem. Are you staying for a while at our campsite in Arcachon, in La Teste-de-Buch? Take the opportunity to explore the Village de l'Herbe in Cap Ferret, just 20 kilometers south of Bordeaux—a picturesque fishing village perfect for family strolls!
A Village Full of Charm
The best way to explore the Village de l'Herbe in Cap Ferret from your seaside campsite near Arcachon is by boat! Hop aboard the Batexpress, and in just a few minutes, you'll arrive at this delightful, authentic village located between Canon and La Vigne. According to locals, the Village de l'Herbe is the most beautiful village in the Arcachon Bay. It is even listed as a national heritage site as a "Picturesque Site of France." Take your time wandering through the charming streets of the village. You'll pass by numerous colorful cabins, each more beautiful than the last, as well as the delightful fountain that enhances the village square. Stunning views are abundant during your walk; at every corner, you’ll catch glimpses of the blue waters of Arcachon Bay and its golden sandy beaches. Your stroll will lead you to the Sainte-Marie-du-Cap Chapel, a 19th-century Algerian-style chapel recently renovated and classified as a Historic Monument. Built under the direction of Léon Lesca, a local entrepreneur who made his fortune in Algeria, this chapel once belonged to the now-destroyed Algerian Villa from the 1960s. Its unique feature is the combination of Christian crosses and Muslim crescents adorning its bell tower. Be sure to visit the interior of this charming chapel! Strolling through the narrow streets of the Village de l'Herbe in Cap Ferret means taking time to appreciate the peace and beauty of this tranquil yet lively village. Its serene and pleasant atmosphere will surely charm you! Would you like to enjoy breathtaking views of the Village de l'Herbe in Lège-Cap Ferret? Head to the Île aux Oiseaux roundabout. From here, you’ll have a unique vantage point over the village and the Arcachon Bay.
An Oyster-Farming Village
The village of L'Herbe is above all a community of fishermen and oyster farmers. It’s a must-see during your visit to this small town in Gironde: oysters! L’Herbe is dotted with numerous oyster huts that add an authentic touch. To taste the oysters from the Arcachon Bay, head straight to the waterfront! The oyster huts are often bustling, filled with locals and vacationers savoring the delicious local oysters, paired with a glass of white wine and a view of the Arcachon Bay. After your sea-flavored feast, wander through the oyster-farming district to admire the colorful and quirky fishing huts up close. Built at the end of the 19th century to house oyster farmers, their tools, and provide a workspace, these huts have been home to generations of fishing families. While some have been renovated, others, over a century old, remain in their original state. This traditional district has retained its soul and identity, unique to the village of L'Herbe. To delve deeper into the history of the oyster huts and oyster farming in the bay, contact the Cap Ferret tourist office to book a tour of the huts in L’Herbe. Oyster farming is so integral to life in L'Herbe that it even inspired the village’s name. The term "herbe" refers to the abundant seagrass growing on the region's sandy and muddy beds, creating an ideal habitat for oyster farming. Before heading back to your campsite, enjoy a relaxing moment on the beaches of the Village of L’Herbe. You have two options: the beach of L’Herbe, located to the north of the village near the oyster-farming district, and the Chapelle beach, to the south, right next to the Algerian chapel. Both are perfect for a peaceful family swim, though it’s best to avoid the high season when the beaches are crowded. Bask in the generous Gironde sun on the fine sand, then take a swim in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. At low tide, try crab fishing with your children – they’ll love it! From your towel, admire the stunning landscape surrounding you: the Pilat Dune, the Arcachon Bay, the village of L’Herbe… the view is breathtaking! So, during your stay at our campsite in La Teste-de-Buch, don’t miss the chance to visit the Village of L'Herbe in Cap Ferret – an essential stop for any vacationer passing through this part of Gironde!