Discover Port-Cros Island: A Day Trip to Paradise
During your stay in one of our luxury villas with a private pool on the Côte d’Azur, a day trip to the enchanting island of Port-Cros is an absolute must. This hidden gem, located off the coast of Hyères and Toulon, offers an unforgettable experience.
🌴 Team Villa’s Recommendation: Our Personal Experience on Port-Cros
Team Villa, we have fallen in love with the charm of Port-Cros. This island has captivated our hearts, and we keep coming back. The small but lively harbor, with its two piers, is one of our favorite spots. Here, you’ll also find a diving school where you can book a scuba diving session to explore the rich underwater world.
The colorful restaurants by the harbor, with delicious cocktails and a Caribbean vibe, make every meal a delightful experience. There’s nothing better than dining at a table in the sand, enjoying a breathtaking view of the bay, where boats gently sway.
One of Team Villa’s favorite places to eat is Hostellerie Provençale, which often hosts live music in the summer months. They serve exquisite cocktails and delicious shared dishes (‘À partager’), making it the perfect spot for a relaxed yet festive meal.
🌿 Pure Indulgence: Le Manoir
When we feel like taking our experience to the next level, we head to Le Manoir.
🏡 Hotel-Restaurant Le Manoir: A Step Back in Time
Following a path through the pine trees from the harbor, you’ll come across a wooden gate leading to Hotel-Restaurant Le Manoir. Here, time seems to stand still, and the nostalgic atmosphere transports you to another era.
Next to the hotel, you’ll find a charming tearoom—perfect for an afternoon apéro, overlooking tall reeds and the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Later, you can walk to the outdoor dining area, where tables are covered and set in the sand, offering stunning views of the bay. As you enjoy exceptional cuisine, the sun slowly sets, and the ‘Petit Duc’ owl makes its presence known with its distinctive ‘tuut’ calls.
🐠 A Unique Snorkeling Experience
If you love snorkeling, we highly recommend visiting Plage de la Palud.
- This beach features an underwater trail that you can follow while snorkeling.
- Along the route, information boards provide fun facts about marine plants and sea life.
- You can rent your snorkeling gear at the diving school: Sun Port-Cros.
🥾 A Hiker’s Paradise
Port-Cros offers a variety of hiking trails (clearly marked!) that lead you through its stunning natural landscapes. The island is a protected national park, home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
Don’t forget: the crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful fish, making the experience even more magical.
🏰 Fort de l’Estissac
- This historic fort is perched above the harbor.
- Built to defend the French coastline, it offers an insight into 17th-century military architecture.
- The fort is open to visitors, providing a fascinating glimpse into history.
📍 Practical Information
How to get to Port-Cros?
Port-Cros can be reached from various ports along the Côte d’Azur, including:
✔ Hyères
✔ Le Lavandou
✔ Toulon
🚢 It is highly recommended to book in advance, both for the ferry and for restaurants.
👉 Take the ferry from the Côte d’Azur to Port-Cros and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
