Discovering the island of Port-Cros…

A discovery hike around the island

Forget the long, sandy beaches of Porquerolles! Make way for the small, crystal-clear coves:

• Port-Man beach at the tip of the island,
• La Palud beach, starting point of the underwater trail,
• the lagoon-like southern beach.

As you stroll down to the beach, you’ll discover various forts built as early as the 17th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. Fort de l’Estissac, at the north-western end of the island, offers a breathtaking panorama of the Hyères harbor.

The thirty kilometers of trails are often former goat paths! Enjoy views of the mainland, Le Levant and the island of Bagaud (part of the Port-Cros National Park). Finally, meet the nesting birds and observe the typical Mediterranean flora.

What about visiting Port-Cros underwater?

Port-Cros is Europe’s first marine park. Grab your flippers and snorkel and head for the Palud underwater trail. Discover the abundant underwater flora and fauna. This unique reserve has been protected for almost 60 years. Immense meadows of posidonia oxygenate and filter the water, providing a home for small, multicolored fish: girelles, saupes, red mullets, gilthead bream… You’ll also discover numerous starfish, seahorses…

This giant aquarium is a diver’s paradise!