Sunset at Porquerolles harbour
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Our sailing tour along the Côte d’Azur also took us to the island of Porquerolles, the main island of the Hyères archipelago. I had wanted to visit this island for a long time, so I persuaded my brother-in-law to take us to the port of Porquerolles. It was only a short trip from our last anchorage on the neighbouring island of Port-Cros.

Although Porquerolles is the largest island in the group, it is still only 12 square metres in size. But within these 12 m2, you will find an impressive landscape, turquoise sea, white sandy beaches, and small bays. 

In this travel blog, I share with you four reasons why a visit to this island is worthwhile.

Street in the Provence
The village Porquerolles
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Four reasons to visit Porquerolles

1. The history of Île de Porquerolles

Archaeological finds show that Celts, Etruscans, Ligurians, Greeks, and Romans already settled on the island. In modern times, soldiers from Napoleon’s army settled here at the beginning of the 19th century. Later, a Belgian engineer bought the island, which he then gave to his wife as a wedding present. He wanted to make Porquerolles a self-sufficient island, settle farmers and artisans, and build a school.

It was not until the end of the 1930s that the French state, under Pompidou’s presidency, bought Porquerolles back and thus made the island accessible to the public again.  

2. Picturesque beaches on Porquerolles, Hyères France

Porquerolles is renowned for its exceptional beaches and crystal clear waters. The beaches are spread around the island; some are difficult to reach but very idyllic and quiet. The beach “Notre Dame” on Porquerolles was voted one of the best beaches in Europe by the magazine “European Best Destinations”.

Porquerolles harbour
The habour after sunset

3. The beautiful nature and tranquillity of the Îles de Porquerolles

There are no cars on Porquerolles, but luckily there are many bicycles. For your convenience, you can either bring your bike on the ferry or rent one on the island. 

On 50 km of signposted paths, you can explore the most beautiful places of Porquerolles by bike.

Porquerolles are often described as the ‘floating forest’ due to its many pine forests, olive groves, and lemon, orange, and tangerine trees. Wine is also grown very successfully in this little paradise.

4. The village of Porquerolles

In the main town of the island, right next to the harbour, there is a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. Pastel-coloured houses line the small streets and alleys. A few small shops sell local products, souvenirs, and handicrafts. There are also many cosy cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Provençal cuisine.

Main street on French island
Porquerolles

Where is Porquerolles?

The island is located on the Côte d’Azur and is the main island of the Îles d’Hyères archipelago. However, it is only about 3 km away from the Giens peninsula.

Porquerolles
The northern tip of Porquerolles

How to get to Porquerolles?

Porquerolles can only be reached by boat. From Hyères, take the ferry from Tour Fondue at the end of the Giens peninsula with TLV.

Price of ferries from Hyères to Porquerolles

Prices for the crossing to Porquerolles:

High season: 24 euros return (May to September).

Low season: 22 euros return (April and October)      

Low season: 17.70 euros return (November to March)

Bateliers De La Côte D’Azur also offers crossings from various ports to the island.

Another way to visit the island of Porquerolle is to take part in an excursion.

 

Best restaurant in Porquerolle

I can highly recommend the restaurant L’Organgerie. The food was great, and the atmosphere was exceptional. The chef came to our table to make recommendations and explain each dish in the finest detail. 

The best part? The restaurant’s terrace offers a magnificent views of the sea and the harbour.

L'orangerie, Porquerolles
The restaurant L'Orangerie
Porquerolles
View from Restaurant L'Orangerie

Conclusion

Porquerolles is a quiet and picturesque spot that has far exceeded my expectations. The natural beauty of the island, from the crystal clear beaches to the fragrant pine forests, is simply awe-inspiring. It’s a place where you can escape the otherwise hustle and bustle of the Côte d’Azur without sacrificing comfort and charm.

Visit our resources page to discover the ultimate tools and tips for planning your perfect trip.

Pro Tip

Treat yourself to an overnight stay on the island and enjoy the peace and quiet after the last ferry has left with the day trippers.

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Until Next time, Bernie and Petra

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About the Author

Petra Top is a dynamic freelance travel journalist hailing from Altusried, Germany, who expertly balances her roles as a Motorsport enthusiast, translator, author, and social media strategist. Her expert skill set includes web designing, multilingual communications, and photography, enriched by notable memberships in international travel and food writers' organisations. Petra's life philosophy—"I travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape me"—captivates her audience, reflecting her passion for exploration and sustainable innovation at Travel Buddies Lifestyle.

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