Local Area
The area is renowned for a number of things; Wine being the most famous followed secondly by its large unspoilt countryside and forests. The entire area was a swampland in the eighteenth century but, was cleverly reclaimed by the Famous Napoleon Bonaparte by planting vast areas of pine trees to eradicate the land of water. Now more than 100 years later very little has changed. Within a 30 minute driving distance of Atlantic Villa you will find some of the most renowned wine chateaux’s of the world, chateaux Margaux, Baron Philippe Rothschild, Chateaux Lynch Badges, Listrac and St. Emilion to name but a few. These are always open for you to visit and taste the latest vintages. In total there are well over 250 to choose from.
Alternately you have the glorious sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean (Hourtin Plage) 5 minutes away by car. For the more adventurous, simply do as the locals and take one of the many cycle paths to find a secluded spot all to yourself. There are over one 150 km to explore. The beach in Hourtin is one of the best kept secrets in the area, recently added to Michelin maps in the last 5 years. A haven for Surfers and Naturists.
Finally you have the Lake of`Hourtin – Maubuisson - Carcans. You can comfortably walk for 5 minutes from the Villa and be at the spectacular Marina that embraces the lake. Here you will find superb restaurants and eateries that cater for any palette, from fresh fish to local medocain delicacies. There’s even an Ice-cream restaurant that offers over one hundred different flavours, all homemade. At the lake there is a lifeguard patrolled beach (ideal for the younger ones) where you can try your hand at practically any water sport you heart desires. Windsurfing to catamaran sailing, Kite surfing to Water ski-ing, or you can rent a boat and explore the lake yourself. Fishing is a common pastime here around the lake (permit required) and also at the beach too!
Two days a week there is a traditional market in the town square next to the old church. Here you have the chance to sample some of the locally grown produce. Fruit, vegetables and local wine are on offer alongside Oysters from Arcachon. Lamprey and rib eye steaks “a la bordelaise”, Fresh lamb from Pauillac and Canneles are all local dishes to savour.
Whatever your taste there is something for everybody!
