Porquerolles is a stunning French island located in the Mediterranean Sea, characterized by its olive groves, vineyards, and more than 50 kilometers of paths and cycling routes. Owned by the French government and protected as a national park, the island boasts beautiful beaches like Plage de Notre Dame, which was named the most beautiful in Europe in 2015. Cars are banned on the island, so visitors are encouraged to rent bicycles to explore its attractions, including Fort Sainte Agathe, a 16th-century military fort, and Eglise Sainte Anne, a 19th-century military chapel turned church. Porquerolles also offers various water activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, making it a perfect destination for leisure and adventure.
With a population of around 350 year-round residents that swells in the summer months with visiting holidaymakers, Porquerolles offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds. The island was purchased by Belgian explorer François Joseph Fournier as a gift for his wife, Sylvia, in the 1900s, and now features vineyards and olive groves across its landscape. The lack of cars on the island adds to its charm, with only service vehicles allowed, leading tourists to rent bicycles for transportation. The island also features several restaurants serving local cuisine and a few hotels for accommodations, such as Hôtel-Restaurant L’Oustaou de Porquerolles, where room rates start at £155 per night. Ferries operate from the French mainland to Porquerolles, with the closest airport being Marseille, which offers direct flights from the UK.
Visiting Porquerolles allows travelers to experience a luxurious and relaxing vacation, as described by The Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot, who visited the island in 2022. Exploring the secluded beaches, like Plage de Notre Dame, and discovering the island’s historic attractions, such as Fort Sainte Agathe, provides a unique glimpse into the island’s beauty and charm. A highlight of the trip is the opportunity to enjoy various water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing, all against the stunning backdrop of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The quiet and peaceful ambiance of Porquerolles, along with its lovely restaurants and scenic accommodations, make it an ideal getaway destination for those seeking a serene retreat in Europe.
Traveling to Porquerolles requires taking a ferry from the French mainland, with services available from Toulon and the Giens Peninsula. While Marseille is the closest airport, offering direct flights from the UK, budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet operate flights to the city, making it easily accessible to visitors. The island experiences 300 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal destination for a summer vacation between May and September. With its picturesque landscapes, tranquil beaches, and various activities, Porquerolles provides an unforgettable holiday experience for travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of a secluded European island.
Porquerolles, also known as the “floating forest” by locals, is the largest of the four French islands forming the Hyères Islands. With a quaint village established in the 1820s and historical landmarks like a church and lighthouse, the island offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Purchased by François Joseph Fournier as a gift for his wife and now owned by the French government, Porquerolles is characterized by its lush olive groves, vineyards, and stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. Visitors are encouraged to explore the island by renting bicycles and discovering its attractions, including the 16th-century military fort, Fort Sainte Agathe, and the 19th-century church, Eglise Sainte Anne. The absence of cars on the island creates a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy various activities and amenities, making Porquerolles a hidden gem in Europe for those seeking a tranquil and off-the-beaten-path destination.
