Plage Notre-Dame, Provence Travel Guide

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Discover Plage Notre-Dame on Porquerolles: voted Europe's best beach, offering turquoise waters, pristine sands, and a tranquil pine forest escape.

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Plage Notre-Dame

Plage Notre-Dame, located on the island of Porquerolles, is celebrated as one of Europe's most beautiful beaches. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and surrounding pine forest offer an idyllic setting for relaxation and natural beauty. Accessible by foot or bike, this pristine beach provides a serene escape from the bustling mainland.

A brief summary to Plage Notre-Dame

Île de Porquerolles, Hyères, 83400, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Plage Notre-Dame.

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and water, as the beach is exposed, and it's important to stay hydrated.
Rent a bike to explore the island and reach the beach quickly from the port.
Visit during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Pack a picnic to enjoy under the pine trees, as restaurant options directly on the beach are limited.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking or biking, as the terrain can be uneven.

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Explore Plage Notre-Dame on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Plage Notre-Dame, mapped for you.

Getting There

Ferry

The primary access to Plage Notre-Dame is via ferry from the mainland. The most frequent and shortest ferry route is from La Tour Fondue on the Giens Peninsula. Ferries are operated by TLV-TVM. A round-trip ticket costs approximately €22 for adults and €17.70 for children (4-10 years). The crossing takes about 15 minutes. From Toulon, La Londe-les-Maures, and La Seyne-sur-Mer, ferries are available from April to September via Bateliers de la Côte d'Azur. From Le Lavandou, ferries are available via Les Vedettes des îles d'Or. Please note that from July 1 to August 31, people with a TLV TVM QR code reservation for the island of Porquerolles can, on presentation of their electronic ticket, use line 67 free of charge on the day of their crossing.
Walking/Biking

Upon arrival at the Porquerolles port, Plage Notre-Dame is best reached by foot or bicycle. Numerous bike rental shops are available near the port, with prices ranging from €15-€20 for a half or full day. From the port, follow the signs towards La Courtade and then Notre-Dame. The walk takes approximately one hour, while biking takes about 30 minutes. Note that the terrain can be uneven in some parts. There is also an electric bus that links the port, the village and certain beaches from May to September.

Discover more about Plage Notre-Dame

Plage Notre-Dame, nestled on the northern coast of Île de Porquerolles, is a breathtaking beach renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Often lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, it stretches approximately 800 meters, offering a wide expanse of fine, white sand meeting crystal-clear, turquoise waters. The beach is framed by a majestic pine forest, providing ample shade and a refreshing scent, enhancing the overall sensory experience.The beach's clear, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling. The surrounding seabed teems with diverse marine life, attracting both beginner and experienced snorkelers. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with equipment rentals conveniently available nearby.To reach Plage Notre-Dame from the Porquerolles port, head east, following the signs for La Courtade and then Notre-Dame. The journey is approximately 3 kilometers from the village center, taking about an hour on foot or 30 minutes by bicycle. Cars are not allowed on the island, contributing to the beach's peaceful environment.Île de Porquerolles itself boasts a rich history, having been purchased in 1912 by François Joseph Fournier as a wedding gift for his wife. He planted extensive vineyards, and the island's wine became one of the first to be classified as vin des Côtes de Provence. Today, much of the island is a protected national park, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty.Plage Notre-Dame offers a serene escape, inviting visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the stunning Mediterranean landscape. Whether you seek relaxation under the pines, a refreshing swim in turquoise waters, or exploration of the vibrant marine ecosystem, Plage Notre-Dame promises an unforgettable experience.