Nestled on the Atlantic coast of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Arès combines sun-soaked beaches, tranquil lagoons, and a welcoming seaside village vibe that makes it a standout destination for vacation rentals and farm stay experiences. This Gironde town sits just across the Bassin d’Arcachon from the iconic arc of oyster beds and pine forests, offering a convenient blend of coast, nature, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday, a nature-filled escape with kids, or a slow-paced farm stay that emphasizes local flavors and hands-on experiences, Arès has inviting options for every type of traveler. For a wide selection of accommodations in the area, you can explore searchandstay.com to find vacation rentals, farm stays, and farmer-friendly stays that suit your travel style and budget.
Why Arès is the perfect family-friendly base for a Nouvelle-Aquitaine vacation
Arès offers a safe, convenient environment for families who want to balance beach time with easy access to nature excursions. The coastline features shallow, calm waters and wide sandy beaches ideal for children to play, splash, and build sandcastles under watchful eyes. Beach days are complemented by shaded promenades, picnic spots, and nearby markets where families can sample fresh seafood, local produce, and artisanal treats. With a strong sense of community and a relaxed pace, Arès is the kind of place where kids can roam in secure spaces while adults unwind with a coffee by the shore or set up a picnic along the beach edge.
Staying in Arès means you’re never far from diverse activities. You can cycle along scenic routes through pine forests, take a short boat trip on the Bassin, or venture a little farther to discover the legendary Dune du Pilat. The area is well-equipped for travelers who value convenience: well-marked cycle paths, family-sized facilities, nearby grocery stores with kid-friendly options, and a range of accommodations from cozy garden cottages to modern farm stays that respect your pace and safety needs.
Types of stays in Arès: vacation rentals, farm stays, and farm stay accommodations
Arès and the surrounding Bassin d’Arcachon basin offer a spectrum of lodging that fits family trips, couple escapes, or group getaways. Here are popular options you’ll find when searching for a place to stay in the area:
- Vacation rentals — Spacious maisons, cottages, and villas with multiple bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and private outdoor spaces. Perfect for families who want room to spread out, a kitchen to prepare kid-friendly meals, and a washer/dryer for beach laundry days.
- Farm stays (fermes et gîtes) — Agritourism properties where you can wake up to fresh eggs, farm-fresh produce, and even opportunities to participate in seasonal farming tasks. These stays often provide a charming rural ambience, hands-on activities for kids, and meals that showcase local dishes.
- Gîtes and chambres d’hôtes — Country-style accommodations with a focus on local hospitality. Expect thoughtfully decorated spaces, shared or private dining, and the chance to meet other travelers or locals who can share insider tips on the region.
- Eco-lodges and nature retreats — Lightweight, sustainable stays designed to minimize impact while maximizing comfort. Great for travelers who want to stay closer to nature with modern conveniences and safety-focused amenities.
- Pet-friendly options — Many farms, villas, and vacation rentals in Arès welcome dogs or other family pets, with dedicated space for them and nearby walks that accommodate pets safely.
When you search for an Arès stay, prioritize properties that emphasize child safety features (gated balconies, fenced yards, secure stair gates), convenient parking, and proximity to the beach or bike paths. This helps you keep your family’s safety and convenience front and center while still enjoying the charm of a farm stay or coastal retreat.
Farm stay experiences: hands-on, local flavor, and family-friendly activities
Farm stays around Arès often invite guests to connect with the local way of life. Depending on the property, you might:
- Learn about oyster farming and the Bay of Arcachon’s shellfish culture, with supervised oyster tastings or tours that are safe for older children.
- Harvest seasonal produce, pick herbs, or help with simple farm chores that teach appreciation for the land and local food systems.
- Meet farm animals, take short horseback rides with beginner-friendly instructions, or explore nearby nature trails on foot or by bicycle.
- Enjoy farm-to-table meals featuring fresh ingredients harvested that day or sourced from neighboring producers, giving families a direct taste of the terroir.
- Participate in seasonal events such as local markets, harvest festivals, or seaside barbecues that foster a sense of community and safety in a family-friendly setting.
Farm stays in the Arès area often balance rustic charm with modern comforts—well-equipped kitchens, comfortable sleeping spaces, reliable Wi-Fi for planning day trips, and kid-safe outdoor spaces. They’re ideal for families who want to pause the typical tourist itinerary and immerse themselves in a slower, more scenic way of travel without sacrificing convenience or safety.
Beaches, nature, and outdoor adventures near Arès
The Arès beachfront area offers stroller-friendly promenades, shallow water for safe swimming, and ample shade from pine trees. The broader Bassin d’Arcachon region is a playground of natural beauty and easy adventures that suit travelers who like to mix relaxation with light outdoor exploration. Highlights include:
- Relaxed family days on sandy beaches with gentle surf and lifeguard coverage during peak season.
- Bike rides along coastal paths and forest trails that wind through pine forests and villages, with many loop routes suitable for families with younger kids.
- Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat tours that offer a gentle way to see oyster beds, birdlife, and the scenic coastline from the water.
- Visit to the Dune du Pilat (great for a day trip): climb the famous dune for panoramic views of the Atlantic and the bay, followed by a seaside picnic.
- Birdwatching and nature walks in nearby nature reserves and protected areas where families can learn about local flora and fauna in a safe, marked environment.
For families seeking convenience, many rental properties in Arès come with gear such as beach toys, baby gear, and bikes, making day trips and beach days effortless. When you book through reliable vacation rental platforms, you’ll often find detailed safety notes, family-friendly equipment, and flexible check-in/out options that reduce stress and maximize enjoyment.
Local gastronomy, markets, and kid-friendly culinary experiences
Food is a big part of the Arès experience. The region is known for its seafood—especially oysters from the Bassin d’Arcachon—and a lively market scene where families can sample fresh produce, cheese, bread, and sweet treats. Practical tips for enjoying the culinary side of Arès with kids include:
- Staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities or access to communal kitchens so you can prepare simple, kid-friendly meals after a day at the beach.
- Visiting morning markets to pick up fresh ingredients for a family cooking night or a seaside picnic.
- Trying local specialties such as oysters, small grilled fish, and seasonal vegetables, with gentle introductions for younger palates.
- Participating in family-friendly culinary workshops or farm-to-table experiences offered by some farm stays, which blend education with delicious tastes.
In addition to gastronomy, Arès and the Bassin area offer cultural experiences that are easy to enjoy as a family—local craft markets, music events in season, and guided nature strolls that highlight the best of the Aquitaine coastline without overwhelming younger travelers.
Day trips and a flexible itinerary for all ages
From Arès, you can easily plan day trips that balance active exploration with downtime to keep everyone rested and happy. Consider these family-friendly ideas:
- Arcachon Bay boat tours or short cruises to see oyster farms, small islands, and birdlife along the waterway.
- Easy hikes in pine forests or along coastal paths with scenic viewpoints that capture the beauty of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
- A drive to Dune du Pilat for breathtaking views and a follow-up picnic on the beach or in a shaded park nearby.
- Visits to nearby towns with charming markets, playgrounds, and cafes that welcome families.
- A relaxed day in Le Canon (nearby) for gentle coastal exploration, seafood tastings, and shoreline strolls.
Plan your days with flexibility. Many farm stays and vacation rentals in the Arès area offer guidance maps, family-friendly routes, and recommended time windows to avoid crowds, helping you maintain a safety-first travel rhythm that suits children and adults alike.
Safety, accessibility, and traveler convenience
Travelers prioritizing safety and convenience will find Arès to be well-suited for family holidays. Here are practical considerations to keep in mind when booking a stay or planning activities:
- Choose properties with secure outdoor spaces, gated entries, and child-friendly furniture to minimize hazards for little ones.
- Look for accommodations offering parking ease, ground-floor access or elevator, and proximity to beaches or bike paths to reduce daily logistics.
- Check for safety features at the waterfront or beach access points, such as lifeguards during peak season and clear signage for swim areas.
- Ask hosts about baby equipment (cribs, high chairs, stair gates) and check if they provide portable play yards or shaded outdoor seating for families.
- Plan with flexible check-in/out where possible to avoid peak traffic, especially during holidays or market days.
Choosing accommodation through reliable platforms that emphasize safety, guest reviews, and property descriptions can give you confidence. Look for properties that clearly outline safety features, nearby services (pharmacies, medical centers), and family-friendly amenities to ensure a smooth and worry-free stay.
How to find the right stay in Arès
Arès is part of a region teeming with coastal charm and rural hospitality. To discover the best vacation rentals, farm stays, and other accommodation types, use a trusted travel resource that aggregates listings with detailed filters for families, safety features, and location preferences. A recommended starting point is searchandstay.com, which curates a variety of properties across Arès and the Bassin d’Arcachon area. On searchandstay.com you can filter for:
- Family-friendly properties with multiple bedrooms and child amenities
- Farm stays and agritourism experiences close to beaches and woodland trails
- Pet-friendly options if you’re traveling with a four-legged family member
- Vacation rentals with kitchens, laundry facilities, and secure outdoor spaces
- Accessibility features and safety measures for younger children and seniors
When you browse, read guest reviews to gauge the practicality of each base for a family itinerary. Look for hosts who offer local tips and reliable communication to simplify planning and on-site assistance during your stay.
Sample family-ready itinerary: a balanced Arès experience
Here’s a sample 4-day plan designed for families who want a mix of beach time, nature, and light culture without feeling rushed:
- Day 1: Settle into your Arès base, explore the local beach in the afternoon, and enjoy a relaxed family dinner at a nearby market or your farm stay.
- Day 2: Bike along coastal paths, stop for lunch at a seaside eatery, and take a sunset boat ride on the Bassin d’Arcachon.
- Day 3: Visit a local farm stay for a hands-on farming experience, followed by a visit to oyster beds with a safe tasting session for older kids.
- Day 4: Day trip to Dune du Pilat for a morning climb and panoramic views, then a calm afternoon on the beach or at a shaded park with a picnic.
Adjust the pace according to your family’s needs—many properties in Arès offer flexible check-in/out and can help tailor activities to ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Conclusion: Arès as a welcoming, convenient, family-forward destination
Arès, in the Gironde department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is a friendly and accessible base for vacation rentals, farm stays, and diverse coastal experiences. Its blend of beaches, nature, and farm-life offers a flexible, family-centered travel experience that emphasizes safety and convenience without sacrificing the joy of discovery. From relaxing beach days and easy bike rides to hands-on farm activities and tasty local cuisine, Arès provides a well-rounded backdrop for memorable family adventures.
To start planning your Arès escape, discover a wide range of accommodations at searchandstay.com—the site that helps travelers find vacation rentals, farm stays, and farm stay accommodations that meet your needs and ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit to this charming part of France.