Porquerolles Island
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Porquerolles - by PQR (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Description
The Île de Porquerolles is located 2.6km offshore of the Giens Peninsula, next to the town of Hyères and the city of Toulon. It has an area 12,54 km2 (roughly 7km x 3km) and is the largest of the three islands comprising the îles d'Hyères (the other two being Port-Cros and the Île du Levant). The south coast is lined with cliffs whereas the northern one, facing the mainland, holds the village and the main beaches of La Courtade, Notre Dame and Plage d'Argent. Much of the Island is owned by the state and part of the Port-Cros National Park. It is popular for its beaches, hiking, snorkelling/scuba diving and sailing.
Access & Transport
The closest and main access route is by ferry from the Tour Fondue located at the end of the Giens Peninsula (at the end of the D197, 12km from the centre of Hyères). It is also possible to leave from Toulon. Once on the island, walking and bike riding are the easiest ways to get around. Note that tourists cannot bring their car on the island and that the fare for bringing a bike on the ferry is around 17 €
Instructions & Recommendations
Make sure to check the ferry timing ahead of time, especially between October and March. In peak season, you may want to book your tickets sufficiently in advance. In the summer, don't forget to bring your beach wear, towels, bio sunblock, sunglasses and carry some water.
Environmental & Social
The island is part of a national park so development is limited, which is environmentally positive. Only the ferry crossing has a carbon footprint. Tourism helps the small local economy and enables locals to make a living on the island.
Conclusion
Porquerolles is a rewarding day trip (or, why not, an overnight stay) from the Hyeres-Toulon area. If you can avoid the busy summer months, you'll get to enjoy beautiful uncrowded beaches and casual hikes with virtually no car traffic around you.
Key positive
Superb beaches and clear waters
Some beautiful coastline in the south
Key negative
Busy in high season
The ferry crossing is quite a budget for a family
Suitability
Suitable for all ages. Visitors with reduced mobility can get on the island and many areas have road access but not all (trails)
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:6h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY07:30 - 19:00
TUESDAY07:30 - 19:00
WEDNESDAY07:30 - 19:00
THURSDAY07:30 - 19:00
FRIDAY07:30 - 19:00
SATURDAY07:30 - 19:00
SUNDAY09:00 - 19:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY07:30 - 14:30
TUESDAY07:30 - 14:30
WEDNESDAY07:30 - 14:30
THURSDAY07:30 - 14:30
FRIDAY07:30 - 14:30
SATURDAY07:30 - 14:30
SUNDAY09:00 - 14:30