Porquerolles is one of the most preserved spots on the French Mediterranean coast. Cars banned, vineyards (Domaine de la Courtade, AOC), eucalyptus and mimosa forests, dream beaches (Notre-Dame, La Courtade, Plage d'Argent). A 20-minute shuttle from La Tour Fondue (Giens peninsula).
The island is 7 km long and 3 km wide. Discovery by bike: rental at the village (€12-18/day) for a tour of the beaches and the fort. Allow a full day to see everything calmly. Tip: arrive on the 9am shuttle to enjoy the village before the crowds.
Beyond the beach, the island offers terroir: visit the Domaine de la Courtade (AOC Côtes de Provence, Conservatoire Botanique National, organic farming). Or eat lunch at one of the village restaurants — Mas du Langoustier (refined), L'Olivier (Mediterranean), La Croix du Sud (terrace).
Getting there: shuttle or private boat
Two options:
- Public shuttle from La Tour Fondue (Giens peninsula, 15 min from Hyères): around €25 round trip per adult, €20 child. Departures every 30 min in season. Crossing 20 min.
- Public shuttle from Le Lavandou: 35 min crossing, €30 round trip. Less crowded option.
- Private boat from Hyères or Le Lavandou: more flexibility (departure time, multiple swim stops, lunch at anchor). €1,200-1,800 per day for 8 people.
- Private boat from Saint-Tropez (longer crossing, ~1h30): possible but mostly for groups already in the Saint-Tropez zone.
Booking advised in August. Last-minute possible weekdays.
Beaches and points of interest
The main beaches and sites:
- Plage Notre-Dame (north): the most photographed, fine sand, turquoise water. 1h walk or 30 min cycle from the village.
- Plage de la Courtade: the closest to the village (15 min cycle). Family-friendly, café.
- Plage d'Argent: more confidential, smaller, fine sand. 20 min cycle.
- Plage du Langoustier: south-west, near the Mas du Langoustier hotel.
- Sainte-Agathe fort: 16th century, panoramic view. Free entry.
- Conservatoire Botanique National: a vineyard and ecology centre. Tours possible.
- Domaine de la Courtade: AOC vineyard, tastings on appointment.
- Lighthouse (south point): hike + panoramic view.
Lunch and accommodation
Where to eat or sleep:
- Mas du Langoustier (3-star hotel-restaurant, in the pine woods south-west): refined cuisine, €120-180 menu. Booking essential.
- L'Olivier: Mediterranean cuisine on the village square. €35-55.
- La Croix du Sud: terrace, Provençal cuisine. €40-65.
- Auberge des Glycines (small hotel + restaurant in the village): charming, €60-90 menu.
- L'Oustaou: family-style, generous portions. €25-40.
For overnight: 4 small hotels (Mas du Langoustier, Auberge des Glycines, Hotel Sainte-Anne, Le Relais de la Poste). Book 3-6 months ahead, especially in July-August.
Tips and timing
A few essentials:
- Best time to arrive: 9-10am shuttle. After 11am, the village can be crowded.
- Wear comfortable shoes (or cycling shoes): the island is best explored by bike.
- Bring sunscreen, hat, water (the island has fewer fountains than expected).
- Public toilets and showers at main beaches.
- ATM at the village (limited cash — bring some).
- Phone signal good in the village, weaker on remote beaches.
Frequently asked questions
Best time to visit?
May, June and September are ideal: pleasant weather, fewer crowds. July-August: warmer water but very busy, especially in the village 11am-4pm.
Is the village busy?
Yes, in summer. Better to arrive early (9am shuttle) to enjoy the village before the crowds, then head to the more remote beaches.
Cycle or walk?
Cycle. The island is too big to cover on foot in one day (3.5 km wide, 7 km long). Cycle paths are flat and pleasant.
Can we stay on the island?
Yes. Mas du Langoustier (3-star, peaceful), Auberge des Glycines (charming, village), Hotel Sainte-Anne (small budget). Book 3-6 months in advance.
Can we bring our car?
No — cars are banned on Porquerolles. Park at La Tour Fondue (paid, €15-20/day) and take the shuttle.