Hyères, A Dream Destination

If you’re looking for a dreamy destination on the Cote d’Azur, one that isn’t overrun by tourists, consider Hyères (pronounced Yaire). But it isn’t a village, either, with about 50,000 full-time inhabitants. You’ll see right away why people like living there, with the Provence climate and plant life, including numerous palm trees (part of the history and industry of the town, as well as the official name, Hyères-les-Palmiers.)

Located east of Toulon, Hyères has both history, artistic, and beach diversions. And if that’s not enough fun in the sun, you’ll find three islands not far from the coast that offer a variety of activities for both sun-seekers and nature lovers.

Coastal Area

Though much of Hyères lies inland, there are several fabulous fine sand beaches and beach resorts along the Mediterranean. Here are some choices.

One large and lively beach is La Plage de l’Almanarre. It’s great for swimming but also kite surfing and flamingo watching! Several smaller and less populated beaches are tucked here and there in the area.

For a family-friendly beach with shallow waters, try La Bergerie or La Badine, on the Gien Peninsula. Water sports abound, such as sailing, swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and canoeing.

The three Hyères islands are Porquerolle, Port Cros, and Le Levant. (For more about Porquerolle and Port Cros, as well as other nearby islands, see this post.)

On the nearby island of Porquerolle, only a 10-minute boat ride from Hyères, you’ll find what is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, Notre Dame Beach.

Only a small part of Le Levant is open to the public, and dedicated to a nudist beach, one of the first in Europe.

Hiking: The Presqu’ile (Peninsula) de Gien is an interesting chunk of land with water on all sides including in the middle! The Sentier du Littoral is a well-loved hiking trail that runs along its coast. It’s a lovely hike with water views. There are hikes at varying levels in the area.

You’ll find more great beaches along the coast all the way to Toulon.

The Town of Hyères

Old Town is the must-see part of Hyères. Here, you’ll find the town center, with shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Don’t miss the market on Saturdays and Sundays (though you’ll find more markets on the other days all around town.) Go through an arched doorway to access the Old Town, a narrow street that winds up toward the old medieval chateau.

At the tourist office in the center of town, you can get a walking map with two different itineraries. The first one takes you back through the medieval history of Hyères. On the way

to the château, you’ll see the 13^th-century Eglise Saint-Louis, Roman and Gothic, and the 14th-century Port Massillon, the historic entrance to the town, the Tower of the Templiers (Knights Templar), and other medieval structures. You’ll even find an old wash basin where locals gathered to do their laundry.

Once you climb to the top, you’ll find both the old château and a newer structure, the Villa Noailles, a center of contemporary art. If you love art, you won’t want to miss it. Then from the crumbling chateau, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of all of Hyères.

The second itinerary is a bit more recent, from the 19^th century. You’ll enjoy the stunning architecture of upper-class homes, businesses, and hotels of that period.

Other Worthwhile Visits

Pic des Fées (Peak of Fairies) Observatory on the Gien Peninsula, Fridays in summer.

The Jardin Olbius Riquer: A memorable (and award-winning) park in the center of Hyeres. Enjoy a bit of paradise (or I should say more paradise!) with lakes, waterfalls, and Mediterranean flowers. (Note: Olbia was the ancient name of Hyères.)

Annual Festivals, including the International Festival of Fashion and Photography.

If you have the chance to visit Hyères, you’ll remember it as one of your favorite places, offering a little bit of everything you want in a vacation.