What to do in Carcans Discover Carcans' top activities
Are you planning a family vacation at a campsite near Carcans?
What a great idea!
Situated 50 km from Bordeaux between Lac d’Hourtin-Carcans, the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes forest, Carcans is an ideal place to discover the treasures of the Gironde.
A visit here is an invitation to explore the three areas that make up the town: Carcans-Ville, a charming rural village, Carcans Plage and Carcans Maubuisson on the shores of the lake!
Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a hiker, a castle lover or a lover of gastronomic and cultural discoveries, Carcans will meet all your expectations during your stay at Les Ourmes campsite.
To find out what to do in Carcans, follow the guide!
Sports activities around Carcans
Water sports on the Carcans-Hourtin-Maubuisson lake
France’s largest natural freshwater lake, Lac de Carcans-Hourtin-Maubuisson is a top destination to explore on your camping vacation in Hourtin.
It offers a wide range of activities to suit all holidaymakers, including sailing, paddleboarding, canoeing and windsurfing.
Located in the immediate vicinity of Carcans-Maubuisson, the activities on offer at the lake are suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced sportsmen and women!
River trip and swimming around Carcans
In addition to traditional water sports, Lac de Carcans-Hourtin-Maubuisson also offers boat cruises and pedal-boat rides.
These excursions offer magnificent views of the lake’s verdant shores.
If you fancy a swim, you can choose between the lake and the many supervised beaches around Carcans, such as the plage de Maubuisson, the plage de Montaut or the plage de Bombannes.
Surfing and bodyboarding at Carcans-Plage
Located just a few kilometers from the center of Carcans and the 4-star Les Ourmes campsite in Gironde, Carcans-Plage is a renowned surfing spot on the Atlantic Ocean.
The powerful ocean waves make it a popular spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Several surf schools offer equipment rental and lessons for all levels.
If you don’t feel up to surfing, you can also consider bodyboarding to get your adrenalin fix in the waves during your vacation with friends or family!
Hiking and cycling around Carcans
During their camping vacation, hiking enthusiasts can explore the trails of the Médoc regional nature park, located near the commune of Carcans.
This unspoilt natural area is home to a wide variety of landscapes, with marked trails to suit all levels.
The trails pass through châteaux, wildAtlantic beaches, marshes and pine forests.
Along the way, you’ll discover the diversity of Gironde flora and fauna , from coastal marshes to dunes and forests. Carcans is criss-crossed by numerous cycle paths stretching for miles through the Landes pine forests, vineyards and lakeside.
One of these cycle paths links Carcans-Maubuisson directly to Hourtin, offering a pleasant route through the heart of nature.
Whether you’re planning a camping vacation with family or friends, renting a bike is an excellent way to discover the Gironde!
Cultural discoveries near Carcans
The historical and cultural heritage of the Médoc
The Médoc is famous not only for the diversity and beauty of its landscapes, but also for its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Visiting the surrounding villages, such as Pauillac, Margaux, Saint-Laurent Médoc or Saint-Estèphe, you can discover prestigious châteaux and world-renowned wine estates. A charming setting for a discovery vacation, with guided or self-guided visits to châteaux, wineries and wine tastings.
Children’s island
Specially designed to welcome families, l’île aux Enfants is an interesting activity to enjoy on your family camping vacation in and around Carcans.
Located on Lac d’Hourtin, this small island is entirely dedicated to children, with fun and educational outdoor activities.
They can enjoy climbing structures, water games or take part in activities organized by the site.
Vineyard tours
The Wine Route is a not-to-be-missed excursion for lovers of Bordeaux wine and wine-growing landscapes.
By following this route – with or without a guide – you can discover châteaux, taste exceptional wines and admire the perfectly aligned vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see!
Local gastronomy in Carcans
Carcans markets
Local markets are an excellent way to discover the gastronomic riches of the Gironde region during your camping vacation.
The Carcans Ville market, held weekly on the church square, is one of the most popular.
You’ll find fresh, local produce such as fruit and vegetables, as well as regional specialties such as oysters from the Arcachon Basin and wines from Bordeaux and the Médoc.
In summer, the Carcans-Maubuisson night market is an opportunity to stroll between the stalls of local artisans while enjoying the balmy summer evenings.
Médoc wines
You can’t go on vacation to Carcans without visiting the famous Médoc vineyards.
Tours – with or without a guide – of the châteaux and estates are scheduled, along with tastings of some of the world’s most famous Bordeaux wines.
Bordeaux wine enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of vintages available, while families can discover the secrets of winemaking on guided tours suitable for all.
Carcans, a charming commune in the Gironde region, is an ideal destination for a camping vacation with family or friends.
Close to Bordeaux and the famous Médoc vineyards, this region combines nature and culture.
Between swimming in the AtlanticOcean, cycling around the Carcans-Hourtin lake, and gastronomic discoveries, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a camping vacation with family or friends, consider renting a mobile home for two or more people, or a pitch at Les Ourmes campsite.
You’ll have a comfortable, central location to relax by the Atlantic Ocean, while enjoying cultural and family visits to Carcans.
