Giens Peninsula, Provence Travel Guide

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Discover Giens Peninsula: A unique French Riviera escape with stunning beaches, diverse landscapes, and a rich history waiting to be explored.

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Giens Peninsula

The Giens Peninsula, located in Hyères, is a unique double tombolo connected to the mainland by two sandy strips, enclosing a protected marshland. It's a haven for water sports, bird watching, and exploring charming coastal villages.

A brief summary to Giens Peninsula

Hyères, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Giens Peninsula.

Visit the local market in Giens village on Tuesdays for fresh produce and local products.
Explore the Pesquiers salt marshes for bird watching, especially to see the flamingos.
Take a ferry from Tour Fondue to Île de Porquerolles for a day trip.
Hike the coastal path from Port de la Madrague for scenic views and access to hidden coves.
Try windsurfing or kitesurfing at Almanarre beach, known for its favorable wind conditions.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Palais des Papes

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Provence Cross

Troglodyte caves of Villecroze

UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade

Explore Giens Peninsula on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Giens Peninsula, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Hyères city center or train station, take the line 67 bus towards Giens Peninsula. The bus runs frequently, with a journey time of approximately 25-30 minutes to the peninsula. Get off at a stop that suits your destination on the peninsula. A single ticket costs €2.
Ferry

To reach Île de Porquerolles, take a ferry from Tour Fondue, located at the tip of the Giens Peninsula. Ferries depart regularly, with a crossing time of about 15 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs approximately €22 for adults. During the summer season, booking tickets in advance is essential.
Parking

If driving to Tour Fondue to catch the ferry to Porquerolles, be aware that parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak season. Several paid parking lots are located near the pier. As an alternative, park at the Arromanches parking lot in Hyères and take the free bus line 67 to Tour Fondue if you book your boat ticket online.

Discover more about Giens Peninsula

The Giens Peninsula, or Presqu'île de Giens, is a captivating destination on the French Mediterranean coast near Hyères. This unique geological formation is connected to the mainland by two 5-km long sandy strips called tombolos, creating a double tombolo. These strips enclose the Pesquiers salt marshes, a protected ornithological reserve, home to flamingos and over 260 bird species.The peninsula offers a diverse landscape, from sandy beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, to steep cliffs and hidden coves. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sailing. Hiking and biking trails provide stunning views of the coastline and surrounding islands.The village of Giens, located on the peninsula, has preserved its Provençal character. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy fresh seafood at the ports of Niel and La Madrague, and discover historical sites like the St. Peter's Church and the ruins of the Château des Pontéves. The peninsula is also a gateway to the Îles d'Hyères, including Porquerolles, easily accessible by ferry.The peninsula's history includes an ancient sunken city, Olbia, and a medieval abbey, Saint-Pierre de l'Almanarre. In the 20th century, Louis Renault established an estate on the peninsula, and the area became a hub for avant-garde artists. Today, the Giens Peninsula is a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination on the French Riviera.