Hotel La Co(o)rniche

Occupying a stunning location on Arcachon Bay, backed by pine forests and the Dune de Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dune, La Co(o)rniche is the epitome of seaside sophistication.

This luxurious five-star hotel began life as La Corniche, but following a revamp by hotel designer extraordinaire Philippe Starck, was reborn with an additional (o), offering the same dreamy ocean views with cutting-edge design and facilities.

This intimate hotel offers 11 rooms of varying categories in the main building, and 18 cabins inspired by oyster fishermen huts. The largely white interiors resemble vintage beach huts with designer furnishings alongside old paperbacks and black-and-white photos. Splurge on the more expensive rooms for terraces with sweeping sea views.

The hotel restaurant has magical views over the bay and sand dunes. Unsurprisingly, seafood is the star of the show with mouth-watering platters of oysters, langoustines, prawns, crabs and other shellfish in high demand, and more casual dishes available at lunchtime. You can find light nibbles in the bar, along with a selection of wines, spirits and cocktails.

Relax around the stunning infinity pool, indulge in a spot of designer shopping in the on-site shop, or wander to the sister hotel Ha(a)itza to use the spa.