In the heart of the Médoc, between pine forests and peaceful shores, Hourtin is a must-see destination for nature and water sports enthusiasts. Its immense freshwater lake, lined with beaches and paths, is the ideal place to learn or perfect your paddle. Less than a kilometer away, our campsite in Hourtin offers a privileged setting to enjoy this experience in complete serenity. Relax, discover and glide through this corner of paradise, where every stroke of the paddle rhymes with escape.
Lac d’Hourtin, a paradise for paddleboarders
Located in the heart of the Médoc Regional Nature Park, Lac d’Hourtin is one of the Gironde‘s most beautiful natural treasures. Surrounded by pine forests, dunes and fine sandy beaches, this vast body of water guarantees a peaceful, unspoilt setting, ideal for a paddle outing in Hourtin. Its calm, crystal-clear waters enable beginners and experienced paddlers alike to glide along in complete safety, while enjoying an exceptional panorama.
Good to know: Lac d’Hourtin, also known as Lac d’Hourtin-Carcans, is the largest natural freshwater lake in France, covering over 5,600 hectares. Divided between Hourtin and Carcans, it offers multiple launching zones, family beaches and wild spots perfect for a nature getaway.
It’s the ideal playground for paddleboarding: sail along the water’s edge, skirt the reeds, observe the local fauna and discover the pleasure of a gentle activity, accessible to all and respectful of the environment.
Lake Hourtin’s finest paddle spots
With its calm waters and varied landscapes, Lac d’Hourtin is the perfect place for paddleboarding in Hourtin. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, each shore of the lake offers a unique setting to glide along the water, enjoy nature and recharge your batteries.
Port d’Hourtin beach: the most convenient access (and the closest to our campsite).
Located just 500 meters from our campsite, the Port d’Hourtin beach is the ideal spot to start your paddleboarding session in Hourtin. Easily accessible on foot or by bike from the campsite, it’s perfect for families and holidaymakers looking for a quick launch. Several watersports centers offer paddle, kayak and windsurf rentals, with hourly or half-day packages.
Piqueyrot: the pure spirit of nature
Just a few kilometers from the center of town, the small hamlet of Piqueyrot has a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Bordered by pine trees and reed beds, it’s the perfect place for a paddle in Hourtin, to observe the local wildlife and enjoy absolute peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle.
The wild north of the lake
For the more curious, the northern part of the lake is full of surprises. Away from the main beaches, you’ll discover secluded coves, small secret beaches and areas where nature reclaims its rights. These unspoilt spots offer a true interlude of tranquillity and privileged contact with the natural environment of the Médoc: the perfect place for a memorable paddle session in Hourtin.
Comparative table of paddle rental providers in Hourtin
| Service provider | Location | Rates (indicative) | Special features |
| Base Nautique UCPA | Plage du Port | – 2h paddle session: €22- 2h windsurfing session: €31- 2h wingfoil session: €100 | Activities supervised by qualified instructors. Equipment provided. |
| Plein’R Loc | Piqueyrot (northwestern shore of the lake) | – Paddle 1h : 15 €- Paddle 2h : 25 €- Paddle day : 45 €- Giant paddle (up to 10 pers.) : from 59 €- Family packages available | Complete nautical base with giant paddle, canoes, catamarans, windsurfers and pedal boats. Open all year round. |
| The Calicobas | Hourtin Port | – Paddle 1h : 13 €- Paddle 2h : 20 €- Paddle 1h (2 pers.) : 23 €- Paddle 2h (2 pers.) : 40 €- Pédalo 4 places : 15 €- Pédalo 5 places : 19 € | Rental without prior reservation. Friendly, family atmosphere. |
| Stand Up Paddle School | Hourtin | – 1h: €12- 2h: €16- 1/2 day: €25- Full day: €34 | Easy online booking. Payment on site. |
Recommendation for our residents:
- Les Calicobas is a 5-minute walk from the campsite, rental without reservation.
- UCPA water sports center 7 minutes’ walk away, supervised by qualified instructors with equipment provided.
Practical tips to make the most of your paddle session in Hourtin
- Choose the right moment: prefer the morning or late afternoon for calm water and mild sunshine.
- Check the weather: avoid windy or rainy days for safe paddling.
- Wear a safety vest: even for beginners, this is compulsory and recommended for all ages.
- Prepare your equipment: sun cream, hat, sunglasses and water bottle. A waterproof bag can protect your personal belongings.
- Choose quiet areas: set off from the Port d’Hourtin beach, ideal for beginners or for a leisurely stroll.
- Respect nature: don’t disturb wildlife or throw garbage into the lake.
- Familiarize yourself with the technique: start close to the shore, in a stable position, with the paddle still pointing forward, and progress gradually towards the center of the lake.
- Don’t forget to recuperate: after the session, take a relaxing break at the campsite or by the water to enjoy the exceptional natural surroundings.
Paddleboarding in Hourtin is a unique experience in the heart of a preserved natural setting, accessible to all and ideal for relaxation or family fun. To make the most of this activity and the lake, our campsite is the ideal starting point, thanks to its proximity to the Port beach and its comfortable accommodation.
Book your stay now and experience unforgettable moments of skiing, nature and relaxation!