Hike to the top of Europe’s tallest sand dune to watch an inspiring sunset over the shimmering waters of Arcachon Bay. On the approach to the bay, you will notice the landscape gradually changing into a seascape of vast sand dunes and dark-green pine forests. It is a wonderfully serene and naturally beautiful setting that is particularly impressive up close. Geologists estimate that sand has been accumulating there in phases for 4,000 years, resulting in the towering Dune of Pilat which rises nearly 350 feet above the sea. As you ascend the dune – the first half on a wooden staircase – the views will become all the more spectacular. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with a sweeping view of the bay, the Landes pine forest and the sun dipping down below the horizon. The tidal waters attract a plethora of seabirds so be sure to look for ring-necked plovers and oystercatchers.