Ares Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Ares
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Discover Ares, a charming town on the Arcachon Bay in Gironde, France, perfect for family adventures. Start at the Ares Oyster Port, where you can sample fresh oysters at Cabane 44 or Cabane à Huîtres Chez Marie. Explore the Réserve Naturelle des Prés Salés d’Arès et de Lège-Cap Ferret, a beautiful nature reserve with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. Families will love the Aqualand Bassin d’Arcachon water park nearby for a day of fun. Rent bikes from Vélocation and cycle the scenic paths along the bay. Visit the Maison de la Nature for interactive exhibits about local wildlife. Head to Plage d’Arès for swimming, sandcastle building, and picnicking. Join a boat tour with Arcachon Croisières to explore the bay’s islands and oyster farms. Enjoy local cuisine at Le Pitey or La Petite Table. Ares offers a relaxing yet activity-filled getaway for all ages.
Nearby cities
Andernos
Discover Andernos in Gironde: stroll sandy beaches, bike leafy trails, savor fresh oysters, and let your kids play by the sparkling Arcachon Bay all year round.
Arcachon
Discover Arcachon in Gironde—where your family can savor sandy beaches, gentle waves, and pine-scented bike trails for unforgettable outdoor adventures together.
Lanton
Discover Lanton in Gironde—where your family can picnic by Arcachon Bay, bike shaded trails, and splash in calm lake waters under sunny French skies.
Le Porge
Discover Le Porge in Gironde—soft sandy beaches, pine-scented bike trails, and safe lakeside fun invite your family to play, picnic, and unwind together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Ares has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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In Ares, France, locals often recommend exploring the tranquil Réserve Naturelle des Prés Salés d’Arès et de Lège, where winding trails lead through salt meadows teeming with rare birds and wildflowers. For a taste of authentic village life, the bustling Saturday market in the heart of Place Weiss offers fresh oysters from Arcachon Bay and homemade Basque pastries. As the sun sets, the quiet Port Ostréicole becomes a magical spot to watch fishermen haul in their catch while sampling local white wine.
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Yes, exploring Ares with your family becomes more convenient and affordable with the Gironde Pass, which covers public transport throughout the Arcachon Bay area, including buses and regional trains. This pass allows unlimited travel, making it easy to visit attractions like the Ares Salt Marshes, the oyster port, and nearby beaches. Many local accommodations and the Ares Tourist Office provide information and assistance in purchasing these passes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable family adventure.
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For families seeking comfort and convenience in Ares, the area near Plage d’Ares offers an ideal location, with easy access to the sandy beach and calm waters perfect for children. Many accommodations here are within walking distance of the picturesque oyster port and the bustling town center, where you’ll find local bakeries, markets, and charming cafés. The proximity to the Saint Brice salt marshes also provides opportunities for scenic walks and nature exploration, making it a practical and enjoyable base for families.
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Families visiting Ares for a quick 2-night stay can immerse themselves in the town’s vibrant coastal charm by starting with a stroll along the scenic Plage d’Ares, perfect for children to play and parents to relax. Exploring the Réserve Naturelle des Prés Salés d’Arès et de Lège offers a chance to spot unique wildlife and enjoy peaceful walking trails. Evenings can be spent sampling fresh oysters at a local cabane ostréicole while watching the sunset over Arcachon Bay.
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Absolutely, Ares in southwestern France boasts several sandy beaches that are perfect for families with children. The Plage d’Ares is a standout, offering gentle waters thanks to its location on the Arcachon Bay, which naturally shelters the shoreline from strong Atlantic waves. Kids can safely paddle and build sandcastles while parents relax under the shade of pine trees. The nearby oyster farms add a unique local touch, making the area both scenic and culturally interesting for all ages.
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The closest ski resort to Ares, a charming coastal town in southwestern France, is Gourette, located in the heart of the Pyrenees. Gourette offers scenic slopes and a lively atmosphere, just about a three-hour drive from Ares. Visitors can enjoy panoramic mountain views, modern lifts, and après-ski activities in the quaint village. The resort is ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers, making it a popular winter escape for those staying near the Atlantic coast.
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For a family of four visiting Ares, a charming seaside town in southwest France near Arcachon Bay, the average cost of accommodations typically ranges from €100 to €180 per night for a comfortable apartment or family-friendly hotel, especially during summer. Many families choose to stay in local holiday residences or beachfront rentals, which offer easy access to the sandy beaches, oyster farms, and the picturesque Saint Vincent Church, enhancing the overall experience of this tranquil coastal destination.