Créé par Romane, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
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Porquerolles Island is a true little corner of paradise that can be reached from the town of Hyères in the Var. So, if you plan to go on vacation in this department, it would be a real shame not to visit the Golden Island where nature and biodiversity will only amaze you.
Here are 10 must-do things on Porquerolles Island.
1 – The lighthouse
Built in 1830, it's impossible to miss with its 84 meters height! You can admire its architecture from the outside only, as well as the exceptional view it offers over the blue sea.
2 – The forts
- Built in the 16th century at the request of François I, Fort Sainte-Agathe once housed a garrison whose mission was to protect the Provençals from invasion or brigandage. An impressive citadel with its 4-meter thick walls, its terrace offers a superb view over the island as well as the harbor of Hyères.
- Built in the 17th century at the request of Richelieu, Fort Alycastre is a square tower surrounded by an eight-pointed star inscribed on the Historic Monuments list. Closed to the public, it belongs to the Coastal Conservatory.
- Built in the 17th century, Fort du Grand Langoustier has the particularity of having been restored by a private individual, Dr. Paul Vuillard. This pyramidal tower, surrounded by a solid enclosure, can only be visited during heritage days.
- Fort de la Repentance is an underground defensive structure, built in the 19th century. Since 1995, an Orthodox monastic community has been in charge of restoration work. This fort is closed to the public.
Other monuments related to military activities: the Mèdes batteries, Fort du Lequin, Fort de Bon Renaud...
3 – Sainte-Anne Church
This former military chapel from the 19th century holds a small highly symbolic treasure: a Way of the Cross made by a soldier convalescing at the island's refuge in 1869.
He made it using a knife on solid walnut wood. This Way of the Cross is inscribed as a Historic Monument. Access is free.
4 – The happiness windmill
This recently restored windmill is a perfect representation of the old windmills of Provence. Awakened from its torpor after 200 years of sleep, it can be visited from June to September.
5 – Porquerolles beaches
In the height of Provençal heat, you'll be more than delighted to take a little dip in the crystal-clear waters of Porquerolles Island, 5 beaches are accessible:
La Courtade Beach
The largest of the 5 beaches and the easiest to reach. A sand and pebble beach where you'll find some shade under the deliciously fragrant forest composed of eucalyptus...
Notre-Dame Beach
This beach, excuse us for saying so, is none other than THE most beautiful beach in Europe according to the European organization... This little gem is well worth it, the beach being located 3 km from the village which corresponds to about 45 minutes of walking.
But you won't be disappointed, the exceptional environment of this beach is well worth a little effort! You'll enjoy the blue water and the wooded bay that will shelter you from the scorching southern sun.
Langoustier Beach
This one is even less accessible, located to the west, it requires no less than 1 hour of walking to reach it. But the reward is at the end of the path: golden sand, beach sheltered from wind and swell.
Silver Beach
This beach is the little favorite of boaters, its geographical location is certainly something to do with it! Indeed, this beach is located only 25 minutes walk from the village of Porquerolles.
A significant advantage when you have to walk with impatient children eager to swim! In addition, the waters are shallow, another advantage for families. A beach restaurant as well as a lifeguard station are also open during the summer season.
Black Beach of Langoustier
Little known, this beach, located south of Porquerolles Island, is sheltered from winds and less crowded, an advantage for those who wish to avoid crowds.
6 – Wine estates
Lovers of characterful wines will not be left out, thanks to the 3 estates located on Porquerolles Island:
Domaine de la Courtade
This estate offers Côtes de Provence white, red and rosé wines.
Domaine Perzinsky
Several Mediterranean grape varieties are offered on this 10-hectare estate.
Domaine de l'île
This estate, classified as AOP Côtes-de-Provence and certified organic, offers white and rosé wines grown on nearly 34 hectares of terraces.
7 – Emmanuel Lopez Garden
Stroll among palm trees and other very varied plant species native to Australia, South Africa, or even Florida. Free admission.
8 – Carmignac Foundation
This museum offers a very original visit, visitors walk barefoot among works by Botticelli or Andy Warhol on this protected site. It's better to book online and in advance, as only 50 visitors are welcomed for each session.
9 – Hiking trails in Porquerolles
- The forts circuit, 9.5 km,
- The lookout circuit, 4 km,
- The langoustier circuit, 11.5 km...
The itineraries are available at the landing stage as well as at the tourist office, the complete map can be ordered on the Hyères tourist office website for €3. There are also hiking circuits for mountain bikes.
10 – The botanical conservatory
Its purpose is to catalog the flora and natural habitats of Porquerolles Island, but also to preserve the plant species of the Mediterranean. The visit is free.
How to get to Porquerolles Islands?
You must take a boat from the Giens peninsula in Hyères. In the summer season, you can expect to pay €24 per adult, €21 for ages 4 to 26 and the trip is free for children under 4 (round trip). There are several shuttles per day from 6:45 AM to 7:00 PM.
What is the most beautiful beach in Porquerolles?
As we mentioned earlier, it's Notre-Dame Beach (see above for details).