Tourism at the Arcachon Bay is returning only slowly after the wildfires

Arcachon – 02.08.2026: Following the wildfires in the north of Arcachon Bay, the first holidaymakers are returning to the region. According to France Télévisions, however, the restart is proceeding slowly. Hotels, campsites, restaurants and leisure providers are still struggling with cancellations and lower demand than at the start of the summer season.

Since 22 July, the fires had affected parts of the Gironde and Landes departments. Areas around Lège-Cap-Ferret and transport routes west of Bordeaux were particularly affected. On 27 July, the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region reported that several regional transport connections between Bordeaux and Arcachon, as well as between Bordeaux and Morcenx, had been temporarily disrupted. Such restrictions make it more difficult to return to a region whose tourism depends heavily on reliably planned travel.

For businesses on Arcachon Bay, the situation is economically delicate. The second half of July and August are among the most important weeks of their annual business. Revenue lost during this period can scarcely be recovered later. Guests who have not cancelled their trip are finding that services are being gradually resumed in many places. However, individual forest areas, roads or leisure activities may still be subject to protective measures.

On 25 July, the authorities raised the wildfire risk in Gironde to the highest level. This meant extensive restrictions in and near wooded areas. Fires and barbecues near forests were prohibited, among other measures; certain leisure activities and access to risk zones were also limited. The restrictions are intended to prevent new fire outbreaks and ensure clear access routes for emergency services.

On 27 July, the Gironde Departmental Council reported that holidaymakers from evacuation areas had been accommodated and cared for in lodgings and assembly points. Municipal facilities on Arcachon Bay also took part in distributing water and food. Tourism operations are therefore starting up again while the consequences of the fires are still being dealt with locally.

Industry representatives are urging people not to regard all of Gironde as inaccessible. The department covers large areas that have been affected to very different degrees. Travellers should therefore check their accommodation, chosen route and planned excursions with local authorities before departure. General images from the fire zones provide only an inadequate picture of conditions at individual holiday destinations.

How quickly the season recovers will depend on a stable fire situation and the confidence of visitors. A key part of the transport infrastructure remained available: Bordeaux Airport remained operational following a statement issued on 26 July, while also supporting firefighting crews.