Oyster Vending Machines and Coastal Charms in France's Arcachon Bay
While vending machines around the world often dispense unexpected items like umbrellas or pizzas, a particularly quirky example awaits on the south-west coast of France. Here, amidst the briny sea air and fragrant pine forests, a refrigerated vending machine offers freshly harvested oysters, known locally as huitres.
A Quirky Find in a Picturesque Harbour
Accepting contactless payments at €16 for two dozen, this machine has become a familiar sight at the harbour in Andernos-les-Bains, a quaint fishing town on the Bay of Arcachon. Located about 60 kilometres from Bordeaux, this Atlantic inlet is famed for its tidal waters, sprawling sandbanks, and generations-old oyster harvesting traditions.
For tourists, the oyster vending machine is a surprising novelty, but it blends seamlessly with the harbour's lobster pots and fishing nets. The Bay of Arcachon region, with its charming towns and natural beauty, offers a delightful escape from more crowded destinations.
Exploring the Bay's Hidden Gems
Staying in the quieter neighbouring town of Ares, visitors can enjoy strolls past local bakeries, florists, and wine shops. Ares features a 19th-century church with stunning stained-glass windows by Bordeaux-born artist Raymond Mirande, adding a touch of historical artistry to the coastal vibe.
One of the highlights is a day-long boat tour from Andernos, offering bilingual commentary on the bay's fishing heritage. The tour provides glimpses of curlews, dowitchers, and other birdlife, while also showcasing natural wonders like the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune, and the upscale resort village of Cap Ferret, often called the "French Hamptons."
Coastal Walks and Seafood Feasts
A leisurely 5-kilometre walk from Ares to Andernos takes you along sweeping beaches and through pine forests, past ponds where cormorants, egrets, and even wild boar can be spotted. Upon reaching Andernos, the oyster vending machine stands near rustic seafood eateries, but the adventure continues to France's longest pier, which extends 232 metres into the bay.
For lunch, waterfront restaurants like Les Tamaris offer well-priced set menus featuring grilled fish, seafood, and meat dishes. A meal might include calamari, cod with fries and vegetables, and a classic crème brûlée, paired with a pale-pink Provençal rosé—a perfect summer tipple even in late April's warm, muggy weather.
Sourcing Fresh Oysters Locally
Instead of using the vending machine, visitors can opt for a more traditional oyster purchase at spots like Huitres des Gourmets in Ares. Run by a moustached local, this shed-like haunt sells oysters from as little as €5 per dozen, with an extra euro for shucking services. Carrying a tray of fresh oysters back to a rental property as an Atlantic storm approaches adds a cosy, authentic touch to the experience.
Whether exploring via boat tours, coastal walks, or simply savouring fresh seafood, the Arcachon Bay region offers a blend of quirky attractions and timeless coastal charm. From oyster vending machines to historic churches and stunning natural landscapes, it's a destination that delights with every discovery.
