It’s safe to say that the south of France is an ideal destination for your summer holiday. Beautiful coastline, picturesque towns with plenty of character, delicious food and wine, and glorious weather! It is not surprising holidaymakers return year after year. However, even favourite destinations can become tedious.
That’s where we come in! Can you keep a secret?
Just off the coast of the French Riviera lies one of France’s best kept secret; the Ile de Porquerolles! Europe’s very own tropical getaway and a little corner of paradise. Strict environmental protection laws have kept the islands dreamy beaches… dreamy! The only noise is the birds in the trees, the rustle of the breeze and the gentle crashing of the waves.
It makes us feel relaxed just thinking about it…
Getting there
The island’s semi-exclusivity makes it the perfect escape from the sophisticated but often boisterous cities of the Riviera. The island is accessed by a ferry which departs from the port of Giens. It is an hour’s drive from St Tropez and just 30 minutes from Toulon. Located on the Giens Peninsula, all-day parking is available near La Tour Fondue Pier.
The crossing itself only takes a few minutes and ferries operate every half an hour. Return fares range between €15-€20. Although this may seem a little steep, bear in mind that a day in paradise is priceless!
The Village
The Ferry will drop you off in the island’s port harbour. Porquerolles’ historic village sprawls out behind the port and is your first stop. Records suggest that the village has existed since the 14th century. It wasn’t officially recognised until the 1850s however, when the island’s beautiful church was erected.
With a distinct colonial air this little village offers a charming collection of rustic shops, pavement cafes and delicious restaurants. In the village square you will find locals playing petanque and sipping aperitifs in the shade of the eucalyptus trees.
The best way to explore the island in its entirety is by bike. The village is the start point for a number of trails and an array of bike rental companies can be found in the port.
Beaches
It’s hard not to wax lyrical about the beaches on Porquerolles. Ironically this island is shaped like a croissant. Along the inward curving north coast you will find beautiful sandy beaches whilst the south coast is every sunset seekers fantasy. Steep cliffs offer stunning panoramic views and jagged coves add a touch of drama for that ‘pièce de résistance’!
3 superb beaches make up the north coast: Plage d’Argent, Plage de la Courtade and Plage Notre Dame. They are all reminiscent of a desert island and accessible only by foot or by bike. With pearl-white sand and crystal clear sea, you will be hard pressed to find anywhere more perfect.
Granted national park status in the seventies, the entire island is protected against urbanisation. As a result the coastline is completely unspoilt. Resembling the French Riviera from centuries ago it is a place that myths and legends are made of.
Explore the island
The island’s interior is a bright mosaic of Mediterranean flora. Paths weave their way through oak forests, circle vineyards, and line fruit tree groves.
Olive, fig, juniper and strawberry trees thrive on Porquerolles alongside lavender, rosemary, rock rose and myrtle. Throughout spring and summer the island bursts into one big bouquet of flowers. Scents and colours will delight the senses as you explore this island.
Whether you are exploring on foot or by bike the cliffs and coves, golden beaches framed by pine forests, and secret valleys hiding ripening vineyards are bound to enchant you. The only things reminding you that you aren’t dreaming will be the birdsong and the sound of the cicadas.
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Written by Jessica Langlands from Economy Car Hire
