Top 11 Natural Monuments around Hyères

The region offers a variety of significant natural attractions. Key areas include the protected Port-Cros National Park, encompassing islands like Port-Cros and Porquerolles, and the distinctive Giens Peninsula. Within these, you can explore the Port-Cros Coastal Trail, observe Flamingos at Salins des Pesquiers, or visit Almanarre Beach.

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Almanarre Beach is noted as family-friendly, offering a long sandy stretch for relaxation and water activities. The Salins d'Hyères, where you can see flamingos, also provides accessible paths for nature observation that families can enjoy.

The natural monuments around Hyères are rich in biodiversity. At Flamingos at Salins des Pesquiers, you can observe pink flamingos, herons, Belon shelducks, avocets, and little egrets. Port-Cros National Park, including its marine areas, is a hotspot for Mediterranean marine flora and fauna, making it ideal for snorkeling.

You'll find excellent hiking opportunities, particularly on the islands of Port-Cros National Park and the Giens Peninsula. The Port-Cros Coastal Trail offers varied sections along the sea with carved steps and wooden bridges. The Giens Peninsula also features kilometers of coastal paths with breathtaking views. For more detailed routes, explore the running trails around Hyères, which include paths on Porquerolles Island and the Giens Peninsula.

Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore. Porquerolles Island, part of Port-Cros National Park, has a 30-kilometer coastline ideal for mountain bikers. The Giens Peninsula also offers coastal cycle paths, such as the one along Almanarre Beach. You can find various cycling routes in the area, including gravel biking and road cycling routes.

The region is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring without the peak summer crowds. These seasons are also excellent for birdwatching at Les Salins d'Hyères. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, especially at locations like Almanarre Beach.

Absolutely. The Port-Cros Coastal Trail provides beautiful views of the sea and coastline. Pointe du Diable is another superb spot, offering views of Fort Brégançon and the surrounding beaches. The coastal paths on the Giens Peninsula also reward hikers with breathtaking vistas of small islands and coves.

Almanarre Beach is a renowned spot for water sports, particularly kitesurfing and windsurfing, due to its exposure to winds. It's also a beautiful five-kilometer-long white sand beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing. A coastal cycle path runs alongside it, making it accessible for cyclists.

Port-Cros Island, the wildest of the Hyères islands, can be explored via marked hiking trails, such as the 'Circuit des Crêtes'. The island's rugged coastline and dense forests offer a true wilderness experience. Additionally, the La Palud underwater trail provides a unique snorkeling opportunity to discover Mediterranean marine life.

The Giens Peninsula is geologically unique, connected to the mainland by a rare double tombolo—two narrow strips of sand and rocks. This formation encloses the ancient salt marshes, Les Salins d'Hyères, which are now an internationally important wetland and ornithological reserve. The peninsula also offers extensive coastal paths and popular beaches.

Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The well-maintained trails, like the Port-Cros Coastal Trail, are often highlighted for their beautiful views and varied terrain. The chance to observe unique wildlife, such as flamingos at Salins des Pesquiers, is also a major draw.