Port-Cros National Park
Nature at its heartEurope’s first national marine park
Created on December 14 1963, the national park, whose Port-Cros and Porquerolles cores cover 1,700 hectares of land and 2,900 hectares of sea, is one of France’s two oldest national parks. It is the pioneer of marine parks in Europe. It boasts a considerable historical heritage, including Roman remains, some 30 shipwrecks and 20 military forts.
5 good reasons to visit Port-Cros National Park
- Protecting species, environments, landscapes and cultural heritage
- Design and development of interpretive trails on land and under the sea, and museographic spaces
- Creating discovery outings for visitors
- Protected seabed, ideal for observing underwater flora and fauna
- The enchanting landscapes of the national park sites
The national park, guardian of biodiversity
Port-Cros National Park is entirely dedicated to the conservation of marine and terrestrial biodiversity. It focuses on protecting the fragile ecosystems that populate its shores, from fish-filled seabeds to Mediterranean forests. As a good guardian of these natural treasures, he is committed to the sustainable management of natural resources, while offering educational tours to raise awareness of nature, which is so important to cherish. The Fort du Pradeau museum in Giens is the place to find out all about the national park’s activities.
Botanical Conservatory
The Conservatoire Botanique National Méditerranéen de Porquerolles (CBNMed), part of the Port-Cros National Park, is dedicated to knowledge and assessment of wild flora and natural habitats. Olive trees, fig trees, mulberry trees, wild rose laurel: the botanical conservatory also protects rare and endangered flora.
National park spirit
Inspired by nature, the Esprit parc national brand offers a break from the hectic pace of everyday life. It showcases products and services that are committed to preserving and promoting the exceptional territories of the national parks. It certifies that the “marked” product or service contributes to the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of these territories.
Our advice
As part of our commitment to discovering and promoting the region, our Tourist Office is offering four guided tours with the Esprit Parc label: À l’école des chevaliers, Hyères au fil du temps, Histoire du sel, Au pays du sel.