Hiking in Port-Cros
A land and sea jewelHeart of national park
Port-Cros, off the coast of Hyères, is the wildest of the Golden Isles. To unlock the island’s secrets and discover all its hidden nooks and crannies, whether in the sea or on land, you can follow the island’s well-maintained paths. On the hiking trails, take in the island’s endemic flora, its built heritage, and soak up the scents of the pine and fruit trees. On the underwater trail, open your eyes wide and admire the abundance of aquatic life in the national park. Nature surrounds you, so take care of it.
5 good reasons for hiking in Port-Cros
- Discovering the island’s inner beauty
- Reaching intimate beaches
- Hiking in the heart of the national park
- Palmer on the Palud underwater trail
- Mediterranean ecosystems and endemic species of Port-Cros
Hiking on overland trails
The Port-Cros harbor is the starting point for the island’s trails. They allow you to reach the most remote beaches and admire the view from the top of the massif. The ridge trail takes in the rugged landscapes of the south of the island, while the forts circuit takes in the heritage features. Other trails, such as the “sentier des écrivains” (writers’ trail) or the “tour complet de l’île” (complete tour of the island), offer more challenging hikes, requiring a minimum of 3 hours. Remember to take enough water and food before you start.
Our advice
In July and August, visitor numbers are highest in the middle of the week, so a weekend visit is preferable.
Hike the underwater trail
Fins, mask and snorkel are all you need to discover the protected underwater world of Port-Cros on the Palud trail. The starting point is La Palud beach, a 45-minute walk from the village. In this enclosed area, you can dive among a multitude of exceptional fish and aquatic plants in the heart of the national park. With a snorkel mask, the lure of marine life overcomes any apprehension.
Focus on
Map of the 3 trails
By the sea or in the heart of the island, three trails let you explore the natural and cultural riches of Port-Cros. Hike the island freely and enjoy its trails by ordering a trail map from our sales outlets.
The hiking map is also on sale at the Maison du Parc when you arrive on the island.
How to get to Port Saint-Pierre d'Hyères
By car, from Toulon, take the A570 freeway towards Hyères, then join the D197 to Port Saint-Pierre de Hyères. Free parking is available at the Arromanche, Quai des Pêcheurs and Racecourse parking lots. In season, a shuttle bus takes you to the port. On foot, these parking lots are about 10 minutes from the boarding platform.