Levant Island
Nature at its bestPioneering island of naturism
Like its sister islands of rocky coves and leafy garrigue, Levant island is the most remote of our archipelago, and the first to be caressed by the morning rays. The cradle of naturism, the village of Heliopolis is an ode to sun, nature and contemplation. On Levant island, no cars or bicycles, just a nuisance-free paradise in which you feel like Adam and Eve rediscovering the Garden of Eden. The island is under military control for 5km, while the other part, to the west, is open to the public.
5 good reasons to visit Levant island
- Explore one of the world’s first authentic naturist centres
- Hiking coastal paths in unspoilt natural surroundings
- Immerse yourself in the island’s peaceful, relaxed atmosphere
- Reconnect with nature, away from the crowds
- Diving in translucent waters and observing the seabed
Naturism
The village of Héliopolis was founded in 1931 by André and Gaston Durville, two doctors who were pioneers of naturism and dreamed of rediscovering a free, healthy lifestyle in harmony with the Earth. A real village was born, with its chapel and shops. If you’re clothed at the port and in the village square, naturism is free everywhere, on the paths and in the accommodation. It is compulsory at “Les Grottes” beach and along most of the seafront. The sandy beach of “Les Grottes” is the only accessible beach on the island.
Levantine vegetation
The “Domaine des Arbousiers”, to the north of the village, is a voluntary nature reserve offering visitors a delicious bouquet of Mediterranean scents. As you stroll through its 20 hectares of protected vegetation, admire the arbutus trees, small shrubs with reddish bark and round, red fruits. The scent of rosemary mingles with that of myrtle, giving off a sweet, honeyed fragrance, while cistus releases intoxicating amber scents.
Crossings to the Levant
The island can be reached by shuttle from Saint-Pierre port, Hyères’ main port. You can also leave from Le Lavandou or by water cab all year round. Free parking is available (quai des pêcheurs, hippodrome or Arromanches car parks). In an hour and a half’s crossing, you feel as if you’re on a long journey to a far-off island, completely out of time and out of the world.
Our advice
Be prepared: there are no cash dispensers in the Levant, but credit cards and cheques are accepted in most establishments. If you have an account with Banque Postale, you can withdraw cash during branch opening hours.