Pyla sand dune in Gironde, France, is a holiday attraction which attracts numerous tourists (one million) each year, many of whom climb to the top of the highest sand dune in Europe.
The Great dune of Pyla known locally as la dune du Pyla or Pilat measures a massive 107 metres altitude, it is 500 metres wide and an incredible 3 kilometres long. The dune of Pyla is located in the Gironde department of France next to the town of Pyla sur mer which falls in the municipality of La Teste de Buch in the bay of Arcachon.
Visitors to the dune often take a picnic to eat on the top whilst admiring the magnificent views of the ocean. Be warned it’s a bit of a scramble to get up and you will have worked up a thirst by the time you get there. The warm thermals and height of the dune attract paragliding enthusiasts who delight in gliding amidst stunning sun, sea and sand.
The south west region of France has some of the best beaches in the country. There are miles and miles of beach for as far as the eye can see, beautiful silver sandy beaches which are nice and wide with plenty of room for everyone, backed by sand dunes and pine forests. The sea is lively here with large waves attracting surfers. Complemented by an excellent climate from May to September this is a beach lovers paradise.
If you decide to take a villa holiday in Gironde then do take your family to visit the Pyla dune for a memorable day out.