One of Europe’s most exclusive summer destinations is currently undergoing dramatic hours. A rapidly spreading forest fire forced the complete evacuation of Cap Ferret Peninsula in southwestern France, where thousands of people had to abandon campsites, homes, and hotels as the flames advanced uncontrollably.
The fire, which began accidentally on July 22 near Saumos, spread quickly aided by strong winds and high temperatures, reaching the town of Lège-Cap-Ferret at the entrance to the Arcachon Bay.
A blaze that advances without respite
The striking images show towering plumes of smoke blotting out the sky and flames advancing through pine forests until they reach residential areas. In some sectors, homes were completely consumed by the fire as firefighters fought to contain the advance.
Authorities ordered an immediate evacuation, town by town, until the peninsula was fully evacuated, by road and by sea.
According to the French Ministry of the Interior, about 5,300 people were evacuated during the night, most of them tourists staying in campsites.
Over 8,700 hectares burned
So far, the fire has consumed approximately 8,700 hectares of forest.
Additionally, authorities confirmed that around 80 homes were affected, of which about 50 were completely destroyed. Despite the scale of the disaster, there were no fatalities.
To combat the blaze, more than 700 firefighters are on the ground, supported by water-dropping aircraft and other aerial equipment, continuing to battle the flames under very difficult conditions amid France’s third heatwave.
Cap Ferret, one of France’s most exclusive destinations
Cap Ferret is among the spots favored by celebrities, business leaders, and European tourists during the summer. Located opposite the Arcachon Bay, the peninsula is renowned for its beaches, its expansive pine woods, and its elegant holiday homes.
However, today access remains restricted solely to emergency crews and essential services, while efforts continue to protect areas still under threat.
A record-breaking fire season in France
The Cap Ferret blaze is part of an especially critical season for France. Official data show that since the start of 2026 there have been more than 12,500 forest fires, scorching around 44,000 hectares across various regions of the country.
Authorities maintain the highest alert as temperatures remain elevated and weather conditions continue to favor the spread of new outbreaks.
