Discover The Perfect And Unspoiled Island Of Porquerolles On The French Riviera

Those who have found a vacation rental in Provence-Alpes-Côte D'azur - or a holiday rental in Cannes or a rental in Marseille, in particular - who are looking for fun adventures to be had and things to see and do along the French Riviera, should consider planning a trip to the utterly beautiful island of Porquerolles. The largest of the three Îles d'Hyères islands in the Parc National de Port-Cros, Porquerolles is located off the coast of the region, between Marseille and Cannes. It is home to one village, founded in the 19th century, which was purchased, along with the whole island by the Belgian explorer François Joseph Fournier as a gift for his wife Sylvia. When she passed away in 1971, the French state procured 80% of the island, making it a national park and protecting its incredible natural beauty forevermore. Development and cars were both banned and, today, it is a bucolic paradise of perfectly picturesque Provençal landscapes and perfect beaches. Those spending time in this part of France who make the trip to this amazing place are certain to never forget her plentiful charms…

Pearly white sands that are soft and into which one’s feet sink, while the perfectly clear azure waters lap gently against the shore, unspoiled views over the water and across the eucalyptus and pine groves that hug the coast, oaks forests, olive trees, three vineyards, figs, junipers, strawberries, lavender, rosemary, rock rose, myrtle, vivid dragonflies, pretty butterflies, gentle breezes tossing the plants, boats bobbing in the quay, a small village with a church, a little cluster of stores, some cafes and restaurants, a lighthouse, 300 days of sunshine per annum: these are the things that one can expect from the island.

This paradise has never been ruined by human hands and though written records mentioning Porquerolles date back to the third century, the only existing settlement dates to the 19th century and has not been added to in any significant way since then. Full of old world charm and a uniquely relaxed pace of life, it is a perfect place to escape to on a day trip and to get well and truly away from day-to-day life and reality for a moment.

Play on the absolutely picture perfect beaches. Paddle and splash around. Lay out on the soft sands. Head to the Courtade vineyard and discover a high-quality wine that was one of the first to be classed a "vins des Côtes de Provence". Watch the boats bob in the bay. Grab food and a drink and sit outside to enjoy it at one of the cafes or restaurants. Hire bikes and cycle all around the incredible island. Discover the awe-inspiring vertical cliffs of the south of the island that rise impressively up and out of the sea. Take in the rugged landscape and the calanques, rocky points, gorges, headlands and hills from the lighthouse, which affords an astounding 360° view over both the island and the sea. Cycle through the shaded paths at the centre of the island and take in the scent of lemons, oranges, mandarins, and eucalyptus in the air. Admire the diverse Mediterranean flora and fauna and take in the incredible natural bounty that has remained unspoiled and untouched here.

If there is a paradise on earth, this is likely as close to it as one could ever hope to get. For those exploring this already famously lovely region of France, Porquerolles is certainly one of the most captivating and extraordinary highlights and well and truly an utterly unforgettable place. Come and see it for yourself and fall in love.