Port-Cros Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island • Locality

Facts and practical information

Port-Cros is a picturesque island located in the Hyères archipelago, off the coast of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in southern France. With its pristine natural beauty and rich marine ecosystem, Port-Cros is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The island is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and rugged coastline. Whether you prefer lounging on the sandy shores or exploring hidden coves and rocky cliffs, Port-Cros offers a diverse range of coastal landscapes to discover. Plage de La Palud and Plage de La Gabinière are two of the most popular beaches on the island, offering a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

In addition to its stunning coastline, Port-Cros is also home to a protected national park, making it a haven for biodiversity. The Parc National de Port-Cros boasts a unique combination of Mediterranean flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals. Nature enthusiasts can embark on hiking trails that wind through the island's lush forests, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands.

For those interested in marine life, Port-Cros offers exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. The crystal-clear waters teem with colorful fish, coral reefs, and underwater caves, creating an underwater wonderland for divers of all levels. The Marine Reserve of Port-Cros is a designated protected area, ensuring the preservation of its delicate ecosystem.

In addition to its natural treasures, Port-Cros also has a rich historical heritage. The island was once inhabited by monks and pirates, and traces of their presence can still be found today. Explore the ruins of Fort de l'Estissac, a 16th-century fortress that stands as a reminder of the island's past.

Visitors can reach Port-Cros by taking a ferry from the nearby town of Hyères. Once on the island, there are no cars, adding to its peaceful and unspoiled atmosphere. Instead, visitors can explore the island on foot or rent bicycles to traverse its charming streets and trails.

Local name: Île de Port-Cros Area: 2.7 mi²Elevation: 131 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°0'37"N, 6°23'1"E

Location

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurFrance

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Port-Cros Top Attractions

Port-Cros Attractions - What to See and Explore

Port-Cros offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Fort du Moulin, Fort de l'Estissac, Fort de l'Eminence, Fort de Port Man. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Forts and castles
Fort du Moulin
The Fort du Moulin is a French military structure located on the island of Port-Cros. It was built in the 16th century and transformed several times afterwards.
43°0'41"N • 6°23'7"E
Fort de l'Estissac
The Fort de l'Estissac is a former military structure located at the top of the northwestern tip of the island of Port-Cros. Now disarmed, it is open to the public during the summer season.
43°0'31"N • 6°23'17"E
Fort de l'Eminence
The Fort de l'Eminence is a French military structure located on the island of Port-Cros. It is the largest fort of Port-Cros and it is on it that the defense of the island rests in the XIX th century.

Day trips

Port-Cros – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Port-Cros, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Thoronet Abbey (Le Thoronet), Domaine de Terre Blanche, Stade Mayol (Toulon).

32 milesN
Cistercian abbey with museum
Thoronet Abbey, Le Thoronet
Nestled within the serene landscapes of Provence, Thoronet Abbey stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of the Cistercian monks who built it in the 12th and 13th centuries. Located in the quaint city of Le Thoronet, France, this abbey...
44 milesNE
Golf, Resort
Domaine de Terre Blanche
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Provence, Domaine de Terre Blanche is a luxurious haven for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape. This prestigious golf resort offers two championship courses, Le Château and Le Riou, each designed by the renowned...
24 milesW
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Sport
Stade Mayol, Toulon
Nestled in the vibrant coastal city of Toulon, France, Stade Mayol stands as a multi-purpose stadium with a distinctive character and a deep connection to the local culture. This venue is not just a place for sports; it is a hub of activity that encapsulates the...
40 milesN
Nature, Natural attraction, Waterfall
Cascade de Sillans, Sillans-la-Cascade
Nestled in the verdant heart of the Var region in France lies the enchanting Cascade de Sillans, a natural wonder that draws visitors from far and wide to the small town of Sillans-la-Cascade. This majestic waterfall is not only a tourist attraction but also a...
35 milesNE
Military museum, History museum, Cemetery
Mémorial des guerres en Indochine, Fréjus
Nestled in the picturesque city of Fréjus on the French Riviera, the Mémorial des guerres en Indochine serves as a poignant tribute to the French military forces who served in the Indochina Wars. This solemn memorial, inaugurated in 1988, honors the memory of...