Hyères, the Golden Isles: Porquerolles, Port Cros and Le Levant

With the growing popularity yet, still natural and preserved feeling of each of the three Golden Isles of Hyeres, it’s no wonder the French are making their way over to this region of Côte d’Azur. From incredible beaches, plenty of water activities and a long list of things to see, any trip to the Golden Isles would be well worth it.

By far the most popular as well as the biggest of the three islands is Porquerolles Island, which in turn has the most to offer visitors while giving out a unique and welcoming village feel for all to discover. With it’s length being 7 kilometers long and width at 3 kilometers wide, this pristine island truly has everything you could hope for while making your way across the sea to discover what this place is all about.

If you’re looking to dig your toes into the warm sands of this island, then head to Notre Dame Beach, it’s abut 20 minutes biking from the centre, it has been voted the Best European Beach 2015 by Best European Destinations, there you can either enjoy an afternoon full of relaxation or head out to sea on one of the many stand up paddle boards available. With the right mixture of peacefulness, water activities and sunshine, a full day here is sure to be nothing short of magnificent.  There’s a lovely water sport spot near the centre, Attitude Paddle, run by a chap called Alex. 

 
When you’re hoping to take a break from the beach fun, make your way through other parts of Porquerolles where you can find plenty of hiking and biking options to fill the rest of your day with. Climb up the hills and take in the breathtaking views of the sea and the island itself. While on your rented bike, make your way to Fort St. Agathe to gain not only a beautiful sight but also a better understanding of the history of this beloved village.

What better way to end a perfect day than to spend an evening on the islands two hundred hectare vineyard sipping on a glass of delicious wine varietal of your choice. Each vineyard found on the island is also associated with the Conservatoire Botanique National de Porquerolles, protecting and preserving the island and village’s heritage and the environment.  There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the island.

If you’re feeling adventurous after spending time on this magnificent piece of land, you can certainly make your way over to the other two islands that make up the Golden Isles of Hyeres. Isle of Port Cros and Isle Le Levant, the later is made of 10% naturism while the other 90% is all military missile based.

No matter where you decide to visit or what you decide to do while visiting the Golden Isles, one thing is certain…your time there will be well worth it and far from forgettable.

How to get to Porquerolles from Hyères by ferry: Tour Fondue to Porquerolles
Start from la Tour Fondue on the Giens Peninsula – costs from €12.50 (single) to €19.50 (return)

The private boat tour by XL Yatching is a brilliant way to Island hop in a day or half-day, more info: www.xlyachting.com