Cabanes Tchanquées Arcachon
Iconic stilted huts on Île aux Oiseaux, symbolizing Arcachon Bay's oyster farming heritage and offering stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Walk up to the cabins' terraces
Cabanes Tchanquées Arcachon
Best Time
Walk up to the cabins' terraces
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic stilted huts on Île aux Oiseaux, symbolizing Arcachon Bay's oyster farming heritage and offering stunning views.
"A must-see in Arcachon Bay! These cabins on stilts offer a postcard-perfect setting and a magical sunset view."
🚢 Boat is Best
The most recommended way to visit is by boat, with many tour options available.
⏰ Mind the Tides
Check tide times before visiting, as they affect access to the cabins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Stilted Cabins
Île aux Oiseaux
These charming, historic huts on stilts are the emblem of Arcachon Bay, offering a postcard-perfect view.
Sunset Views from the Bay
Arcachon Bay
Witness a magical sunset with the Cabanes Tchanquées as your backdrop – an unforgettable experience.
Oyster Farming Heritage
Île aux Oiseaux
Learn about the history of these huts, built to oversee Napoleon III's beloved oyster beds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Iconic Cabins
Experiencing the Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat is Best
The most recommended way to visit is by boat, with many tour options available.
⏰ Mind the Tides
Check tide times before visiting, as they affect access to the cabins.
📸 Picture Perfect
Capture stunning photos from the water or the terrace at low tide.
🥂 Sunset Drinks
Enjoy a drink at sunset for a truly magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat is Best
The most recommended way to visit is by boat, with many tour options available.
⏰ Mind the Tides
Check tide times before visiting, as they affect access to the cabins.
📸 Picture Perfect
Capture stunning photos from the water or the terrace at low tide.
🥂 Sunset Drinks
Enjoy a drink at sunset for a truly magical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cabanes Tchanquées as a must-see landmark in Arcachon Bay, highlighting their picturesque beauty and historical charm. The experience of seeing them from the water, especially during sunset, is often described as magical. While the interiors are inaccessible, the unique stilted architecture and the connection to oyster farming heritage are major draws. Some find access challenging due to tides, and booking boat tours is essential for a good view.
"Super moment"
Aminata Menu
"A must-see in Arcachon Bay!
These cabins on stilts aren't accessible from the inside, but you can climb up to their terrace at low tide for a beautiful view of the bay.
And if you're lucky enough to enjoy a drink at sunset, you'll experience a magical moment!"
Raphael TRIACCA
"A wonderful off-season visit to the Tchanquées houses. A must-see if you're visiting Arcachon Bay. The best way to get there is by pinasse (local boat)."
Cyril Cousinat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cabanes Tchanquées are located on the Île aux Oiseaux and are only accessible by boat. Many boat tours, including traditional pinasses, depart from Arcachon and Cap Ferret. +2
No, you cannot drive to the Cabanes Tchanquées as they are situated on an island and are not accessible by road. Boat travel is essential.
Several companies offer tours, including Bateliers Arcachon, Pinasse Ohana, Pinasse Altaïr, and Balade Bateau Arcachon. Some even offer private tours or include seafood platters. 
It's best to check the tide times. While you can see them from the water anytime, walking up to their terraces is only possible at low tide.
The duration of the boat trip varies depending on the departure point and the type of tour, but typically ranges from 1 to 3 hours for a round trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to see the Cabanes Tchanquées from the water. However, if you join a boat tour, you will need to purchase a ticket for the excursion.
No, the interiors of the Cabanes Tchanquées are not open to the public. Visitors can admire them from the outside and access their terraces at low tide.
There are no specific entrance fees for the Île aux Oiseaux itself, but boat tours to the island will have their own pricing.
Operating hours for boat tours vary by company and season. It's best to check directly with the tour operators for their schedules.
Yes, several companies offer private boat tours, allowing for a more personalized experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers a magical light for photography. Visiting at low tide also provides unique angles and the opportunity to get closer.
You can capture wide shots of the cabins on the island, close-ups from the water, and panoramic views of the bay with the cabins in the background.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details from a distance. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
Yes, at low tide, you can access the terrace and take photos from a unique vantage point.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Cabanes Tchanquées. However, many boat tours offer onboard catering, such as seafood platters or brunches.
Some boat tours allow you to bring your own picnic or offer catering services. Enjoying a meal with the cabins as a backdrop is a popular choice.
Expect fresh seafood, oysters, and local specialties. Some tours also offer brunch or lunch options.
No, the Île aux Oiseaux is a natural reserve and does not have restaurants. Dining is typically done on the boat or back on the mainland.
It's best to check with the specific boat tour operator regarding their policy on bringing personal drinks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that include stops for swimming or have onboard activities to keep younger ones entertained. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as dining options directly at the cabins are non-existent. Ensure everyone has sun protection, as the sun can be intense on the water. The chance to see the cabins up close and learn a bit about their history can make for an educational and fun outing for all ages.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
Consider booking a tour that includes a special onboard meal, like a seafood platter or a gourmet picnic, to enhance the romantic experience.
+1 The tranquility of the bay and the iconic scenery provide the perfect setting for a memorable romantic getaway. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting at low tide allows for unique perspectives, including walking on the seabed and getting closer to the cabins.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Cabanes Tchanquées
Today, these two remaining cabins on the Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island) stand as a symbol of the bay's maritime past and its enduring connection to oyster cultivation. While they are no longer operational oyster huts, they have been preserved and are a major draw for tourists. Their image is synonymous with the Arcachon Bay, appearing on postcards and in countless travel photos, representing a simpler, more traditional way of life tied to the sea.
Visiting the Cabanes Tchanquées offers a glimpse into this history. Although you cannot enter the cabins themselves, the experience of seeing them rise from the water, especially during low tide when you can approach their terraces, provides a tangible connection to the region's past. It's a reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of the people who have lived and worked on the bay for generations.
Navigating the Waters: Boat Tours and Access
Options range from shared traditional pinasse boat trips, which offer a classic and authentic experience, to private charters for a more intimate outing. Some tours focus solely on the cabins, while others incorporate visits to oyster farms, the Dune du Pilat, or offer opportunities for swimming and enjoying a meal onboard. Companies like Bateliers Arcachon, Pinasse Ohana, and Balade Bateau Arcachon are popular choices, each offering unique itineraries and onboard amenities.
+2When planning your visit, it's crucial to consider the tides. At low tide, it's possible to walk up to the cabins' terraces, offering a unique perspective. However, at high tide, the cabins appear to float, creating a different but equally captivating scene. Boat tours are scheduled to take advantage of these conditions, ensuring the best possible experience for visitors.
Beyond the Cabins: Exploring Arcachon Bay
+2For those who enjoy the water, jet skiing around the bay provides an exhilarating way to see the sights, including the Cabanes Tchanquées from a different perspective.
The bay is also renowned for its oyster farms, and many boat tours include stops at these working farms, allowing visitors to sample fresh oysters directly from the source – a true taste of the region. +1Beyond the natural beauty and culinary delights, the area offers opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Strolling along the sandy beaches, exploring local markets, or simply enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the coastal villages are all part of the Arcachon Bay experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, the region surrounding the Cabanes Tchanquées promises a memorable trip.
Social
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