The Great Dune of Pilat in France – the largest sand dune in Europe
Great Dune of Pyla is the largest sand dune in Europe. It is located in western France, on the Atlantic coast in La Teste-de-Buch, Aquitaine (one of the 27 regions of France). Dune du Pyla is 2.7 kilometres long, 500 metres wide and up to 108 m high.
The Great Dune of Pyla, France by Larrousiney
Over the last hundred years, the Dune du Pyla increased at double. At present it consists of 60 million cubic meters of the finest sand with high content of essential oils that resist chemical degradation. At its peak you can get after 160 steep stairs. Until now no one is able to explain how the Dune du Pyla originated centuries ago and why it is still growing. In 1960, the first measurement was performed and found that the dune increases annually by about 5 meters. It already absorbed several paths and buildings. Dune du Pyla is also suitable especially for paragliding lovers since the conditions for this sport are ideal here. However swimming is not recommended due to lower currents.
The Great Dune of Pilat can be found about 60 km from Bordeaux.
Category: Desert, Nature Reserves
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