This is the largest of three îles d'Or islands in the Gulf of Hyères which benefit from the sun nearly every day of the year (more than 300 days of sunshine a year). The village was created from 1820 onwards, the lighthouse was built in 1837 and the church was built in 1850. Purchased by the State in 1971, Porquerolles became a part of Port-Cros National Park, which protects, replants and studies Mediterranean plants thanks to its Botanical Centre. To the north, three superb beaches offer fine sand, gently sloping shores and an exceptional pure sea. To the south, the cliffs plunge into the sea, and the relief is steep, offering a succession of coves, points, gorges, capes and small mountains. Inland, there is a mosaic of vineyards, olive trees and fruit trees and a few scattered lemon, orange and mandarin trees. The paths are lined with pine and eucalyptus trees and other plants To see: 14th century Fort Ste Agathe, home to an underwater archaeological exhibition (from June to September) Leisure activities: Hiking and mountain biking. Scuba diving. Sailing. Windsurfing. Boat hir. Fishing. Nightclub (during the season). Camping, bivouac and fires are prohibited. To visit the Villa Carmignac, Foundation dedicated to Contemporary Art on 2000 M2. Important: parking is obligatory in the car parks at the Tour Fondue pier
Hyères is a real gem, but one that you can enjoy only briefly. Why? Because it is also one of the best starting points to explore the French Riviera. Book a boat rental in Hyères to visit Les Îles d'Or, the famous Massif des Calanques in Marseille and the bay of Saint-Tropez. Pure magic!