If you arrive at Cap Ferret by sea shuttle from Arcachon, you've already made the right choice: avoid traffic jams and get your adventure off to a smooth start. But what if you went one step further and explored the entire peninsula without a car, only by bike? This guide offers you a 100% cycling itinerary starting from the Bélisaire landing stage, practical tips for immediate rental on foot, the best stops for swimming, oyster tasting, lighthouse visits or just enjoying the peace and quiet.
Why rent as soon as you arrive in Bélisaire?
The Bélisaire landing stage is the perfect starting point for a day (or weekend) of cycling. No need to walk far or look for a bus: everything is accessible in just a few pedal strokes. As soon as you step off the boat, you're already on the peninsula's main cycle path, winding its way between ocean and basin, forest and oyster-farming villages.
Renting a bike in Cap Ferret at this point means:
- Save time: no need to walk with your belongings
- Enjoy smooth logistics: no car to park or retrieve
- Be free to make your own stops: swimming, oyster break, sunset...
Rentals in the immediate vicinity (less than 5 minutes' walk)
Here are the rentals within walking distance of the shuttle bus exit:
-
À l'Eau Vélo
🚲 City bikes & VAE
✅ Great value for money
📍 Two minutes' walk from the landing stage
-
CocoMobility - Bélisaire
🚲 Electric bikes, cargo bikes, helmets
✅ Fast, efficient service
📍 Just behind the Cap Ferret market
-
WESTERN FLYER CAP FERRET
🚲 Comfort bikes, high-end VAE
✅ Well-maintained bikes, perfect for the day
📍 200 meters from the quay
💡 All these rental companies are available on Lokki.rent to compare rates, book online, and pick up your bike quickly.
Bike itinerary for the day (starting from Bélisaire)
Here's an easy and immersive route, accessible to all, to discover the best of Cap Ferret by bike:
🟢 Bélisaire → Village de l'Herbe
Distance: 4 km
Duration: 20 min
Follow the track along the dock. Pass by the Villa Algérienne chapel, then charming alleyways to explore on foot.
🟢 L'Herbe → Le Canon
Distance: 2 km
Stop at Le Canon for a stroll between the oyster-farming huts. Ideal for a lunch break with a view.
🟢 Le Canon → Plage de l'Horizon
Distance: 4 km
Cross the pine forest to the ocean. Easy access and on-site bike parking. Swimming, surfing or siesta in the shade.
🟢 Plage → Phare du Cap Ferret
Distance: 3 km
Climb to the lighthouse for a panoramic view over the basin and the Dune du Pilat. Accessible by bike, visit on foot.
🟢 Back to Bélisaire
Distance: 2 km
Make a final stop for a drink on the terrace or some shopping.
Total: approx. 15 km - not difficult, with plenty of stops
Effective cycling time: ~1h30
Type of terrain: flat, safe cycle paths
Lunch break: oysters and basin view by bike
Two options less than 10 minutes by bike from the landing stage:
- Cabane au village de l'Herbe: quiet, waterside atmosphere, oysters + local white wine
- Terrasse au Canon: oyster huts with unobstructed views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying
Tip: plan your break between 12 and 2 pm, but avoid the crowds between 1 and 1:30 pm in high season.
Where can you swim easily without a car?
Here are three beaches directly accessible by bike:
- Plage du Mimbeau (3 min): pool side, calm water, ideal with children
- Plage de l'Horizon (15 min): ocean side, supervised in summer, wilder
- Plage des Américains (10 min): pretty cove, soft sand, less crowded
🚲 All beaches have bike parking nearby.
Special FAQ "visiting Cap Ferret without a car"
Is it possible to transport your own bike on the Arcachon → Cap Ferret shuttle bus?
Yes, it is possible at an extra cost (approx. €11). Remember to arrive early in summer, as places are limited.
Are the cycle paths continuous?
Yes! Cap Ferret has more than 60 km of safe, well-marked cycle paths through forest, villages and beaches.
Is an electric bike useful?
Not essential: the terrain is flat. But an electric bike can be comfortable if you're planning to cycle more than 20 km, or if you're not used to it.
Do I need to book my bike in advance?
We strongly recommend it in July and August. Lokki.rent lets you compare and book in just a few clicks.
Are there toilets or water points on the route?
Yes: at the Cap Ferret market, Horizon beach and Canon.
