Porquerolles, Provence Travel Guide

4.6 (1571)

Discover Porquerolles Island: Pristine beaches, car-free tranquility, and historical charm await in this Mediterranean paradise.

Porquerolles Island, the largest of the Îles d'Hyères in the French Riviera, is a haven of natural beauty with pristine beaches, diverse landscapes, and a charming village. Accessible by a short ferry ride, the island offers a car-free escape perfect for cycling, hiking, and exploring historical sites.

A brief summary to Porquerolles

Hyères, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Rent a bike to explore the island's diverse landscapes and hidden beaches.
Pack food and water, as facilities are limited on some beaches.
Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Check the weather forecast, as access to forest areas may be restricted on windy days.
Book your ferry and bicycle rentals in advance, especially during peak season.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Porquerolles on the Map

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

Getting There

Ferry

The primary access point to Porquerolles Island is via ferry from the Giens Peninsula. From Hyères, take bus line 67 to Tour Fondue. Ferries depart regularly from Tour Fondue to Porquerolles, with a crossing time of approximately 15 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs around €19 for adults and slightly less for children. During peak season, ferries operate frequently, approximately every 30 minutes. Consider booking in advance. Alternatively, ferries to Porquerolles are available from Toulon. The ferry from Toulon to Porquerolles costs around €37 and takes approximately 1 hour. Parking is available at La Tour Fondue for a daily fee.
Walking

Upon arrival at the Porquerolles port, the village center is immediately accessible on foot. From there, walking is a great way to explore the village, access nearby beaches like Plage de la Courtade (15-minute walk), and begin exploring the island's trails. Note that the island prohibits cars, so walking and biking are the primary modes of transport.

Discover more about Porquerolles

Porquerolles, the largest and most westerly of the Îles d'Hyères, is a captivating island paradise in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France. Measuring approximately 7 km long and 3 km wide, it boasts a diverse landscape ranging from sandy beaches and cliffs to vineyards and pine forests. The island's car-free policy enhances its tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for exploration by bicycle or on foot.The island's history dates back to Roman times, with evidence of occupation by various groups including Celts, Ligurians, and Phoenicians. Throughout the centuries, Porquerolles served as a strategic point, attracting both pirates and military garrisons. Fort Sainte-Agathe, built in the 16th century, stands as a testament to this past and offers panoramic views of the island. In 1912, François Joseph Fournier purchased the entire island as a wedding gift for his wife, planting vineyards that would later produce some of the first classified Côtes de Provence wines. Today, much of the island is protected as part of the Port-Cros National Park and a nature conservation area.Visitors can explore the charming village center with its colorful houses, lively square, and Sainte-Anne Church. The island's beaches are a major draw, with Plage Notre Dame often considered the most beautiful, though it can be crowded. Plage de la Courtade, the largest and most accessible from the village, and Plage d'Argent, known for its white sand and clear water, are also popular choices. Other attractions include the Villa Carmignac, a contemporary art museum, and the Moulin du Bonheur, a historic windmill. With its natural beauty and rich history, Porquerolles offers a unique and unforgettable Mediterranean escape.