A stopover on the Hyères islands
during your camping vacation in the Var!
The islands of Hyères are three paradise islands, Porquerolles, Port Cros and Ile du Levant, to explore during your camping holiday near the Mediterranean. Early spring is the perfect time to discover them, while avoiding the busy July-August season. These little corners of paradise will seduce you with their magnificent landscapes, bewitching turquoise waters and privileged sunshine. Rather than telling you which one to visit at all costs (a difficult question), we’ve chosen to present them all, so that you can make your own choice according to your desires!
Porquerolles Islanddeparture from Tour Fondue in Hyères
Porquerolles, opposite the Giens peninsula, is the largest and best-known of the Golden Isles. Its surface area (12.54 km²) makes it ideal for hiking, which will delight those who enjoy walking or cycling (mountain bikes can be rented on site). On the island, you’ll be immersed in a splendid landscape of vineyards, steep cliffs and beautiful beaches. Stop off at Plage d’Argent (undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the region) or Notre Dame, which is just as magnificent and has the advantage of being less crowded if you’re looking for a little peace and quiet. The Langoustier circuit offers superb panoramic views, with access to the wilder Langoustier beach and the Grand Langoustier fort. Vegetation is abundant on Porquerolles, and umbrella pines, olive trees and orange groves will punctuate your strolls around the island. Had enough of walking or swimming for the day? Enjoy a drink on the terrace with family or friends. A simple pleasure, but always enjoyable, especially in such a natural setting!
The island of Port Crosdeparture from the port of Hyères
Port Cros is both the smallest of the Golden Isles in terms of surface area, and the highest, thanks in particular to Mont-Vinaigre (194 meters). Here, the only way to get around is on foot, and the hikes are ideal for discovering wild, unspoilt landscapes. The Route des Crêtes takes you up to Mont-Vinaigre, where you can enjoy the southern beach and breathtaking views along the way. The flora and fauna are abundant, and the birds and cicadas are sure to provide a musical change of scenery. For a glimpse of the island’s hidden treasures, scuba diving is the perfect way to take in the sights. You’ll observe a whole unsuspected world as you swim among the many species of fish and marine plants that inhabit the area. An unforgettable experience!
Levant Islanddeparture from Hyères port
The geographical layout of Ile du Levant is quite bizarre: it is home to both a marine military base, inaccessible to the public, which occupies most of the island, and a naturist domain (Heliopolis), well known to enthusiasts who appreciate being able to leave their clothes behind and live in harmony with nature. Here, military personnel, naturists and tourists meet without judging each other in a heavenly setting, and you can choose to visit the island clothed or unclothed without feeling pressured. Naturism is only compulsory on the beach at Les Grottes and on the seaside path. As for the landscape, it’s just as magnificent as its two sisters, but the island has one special feature: the presence of numerous arbutus trees, a Mediterranean tree that contributes to Le Levant’s natural charm. But what will amaze you is the peace and quiet that reigns on the island, thanks in part to the absence of cars and pollution of all kinds. The perfect place to forget civilization for a day during your Var camping holiday!
