The cabanes tchanquées on Ile aux Oiseaux
<p>The Bassin d’Arcachon is full of secret spots. But if there’s one thing that’s no longer an open secret, it’s the <strong>cabanes tchanquées</strong>!<br />
These have become a must-see tourist site, less than an hour from the <a href="https://www.arbre-dor.com/en/4-gironde-campsite/">campsite near Gironde</a>, for visitors to the Gironde, and more particularly to Bird Island.</p>
<h2>What are cabanes tchanquées?</h2>
<p><strong>Île aux oiseaux</strong>, a protected natural site, boasts around 50 wooden cabins. But two cabins stand out from the rest. These are <strong>cabins 51 and 53</strong>, better known as the “Cabanes Tchanquées”.</p>
<p>Etymologically, the word “Tchanqué” comes from Gascon and means ” <strong>mounted on stilts</strong> “. This adjective perfectly describes these cabins on stilts. These two treasures add depth and mystery to the wild landscape.</p>
<p>Proudly overlooking the island, the two buildings are a source of pride for the island’s inhabitants. In fact, they have been <strong>classified as part of the architectural heritage of the Bay of Arcachon</strong>. Cabin number 53 is managed by a heritage association. In fact, it’s partly with the aim of preserving them that these two icons are <strong>not accessible to the public</strong>. This makes the two iconic buildings even more mysterious.</p>
Île aux Oiseaux’s first tree house
The origin of the cabane tchanquée concept comes from Martin Pivet. In 1883, he was an oyster keeper looking for a way to watch over the oysters, whatever the weather. He then erected a hut on wide poles to give him an unobstructed view of the imperial oyster beds. This ensured that he could carry out his mission even at high tide. Unfortunately, a storm in 1943 put an end to construction. The pillars, eaten away by salt water, are still visible today. Since then, two other huts have sprung up near these remains.
<h2>When and how to visit the cabanes tchanquées on the Bay of Arcachon?</h2>
<p>These huts are not open to the public, so to admire them up close, you’ll have to find a ruse! If you decide to <strong>explore them by boat</strong>, choose times when the tide is high. This way, you can get up close to the foundations and discover all their nooks and crannies up close.</p>
<p>Choose a typical boat to immerse yourself in the <strong>traditions of the basin</strong>. A pinnace or barge will allow you to enjoy your visit in peace and quiet. A kayak can also be a great way to combine your sporting and cultural interests. But if you decide to discover the iconic cabins on a walking tour, check the <a href="/camping-gironde-4-etoiles/tourisme/">Gironde</a> tide calendar to avoid unpleasant surprises.</p>
<p>In addition, we strongly advise you to avoid the crowded high season and opt for autumn or spring. You’ll be immersed in the authentic atmosphere of this little paradise.<br />
Whichever way you visit these two beauties, take the opportunity to discover the <a href="/camping-gironde-4-etoiles/tourisme/parc-ornithologique-du-teich/">bird</a> and oyster <a href="/camping-gironde-4-etoiles/tourisme/parc-ornithologique-du-teich/">parks</a> close to our <a href="/camping-gironde-4-etoiles/camping-bassin-arcachon/">campsite on the Bay of Arcachon</a>.</p>
