Porquerolles, A Beautiful Island In The Waters Of Provence
Sometimes we think of Provence as only the French region of lavender and the towns that charmed the artists of Impressionism. But there are many other surprises in the south of France, and without a doubt, one of them is the island of Porquerolles, and the entire Hyères archipelago to which it belongs.
Porquerolles , Port Cros and Ilê du Levant
These three islands of Provence make up the Hyères archipelago, islands already frequented by the Greeks, as their archaeological wealth attests.
All three have great tourist interest despite their small size. For example, to get an idea you have to think that the island of Porquerolles that we are dealing with here has an area of about 12 square kilometers. It measures only 7.5 km long by about 3 wide.
Not only the Greeks have passed through these islands. The Celts or the Romans also stepped on them, and the presence of all of them has remained in the form of archaeological remains, among which rich mosaics stand out. And much later, Porquerolles and the rest of the islands of the archipelago were attacked on different occasions by pirates who sailed through the Mediterranean between the 12th and 16th centuries.
Porquerolles, part of a national park
The ecological value of this archipelago is undeniable, so much so that since 1971 the nearby island of Port Cros has turned 80% of its territory into a national park. A protection that since 2010 also includes the island of Porquerolles.
That the island is part of the Port Cros National Park already gives us an idea of the type of tourism that can be done here. Basically, the island is the ideal place to relax and dedicate yourself to contemplative life, alternated with walks in the surroundings.
In this way, you will discover its north coast, with sandy beaches surrounded by pine trees and the inevitable aromatic plants of Provence. A landscape that contrasts with the rugged and rocky southern coastline.
Visit to Porquerolles
The only town is to the north and has the same name as the island. A town originated during the times of the XIX century in which Porquerolles was considered to be an important military enclave. Nowadays in that town everything revolves around its port, which is reached by the ferries that connect it with the mainland and the rest of the islands.
An essential walk is the one that leads to the Cap d’Arme lighthouse. Although it is to the south, given the small island area, it is an easily achievable path. The small effort is rewarded by seeing this beautiful lighthouse built in 1837, and in the vicinity there was a previous mill from the 18th century and a church.
Hiking and other sports in Porquerolles
We have already warned that the island is to relax, and there are few things more relaxing than taking leisurely walks through the natural environment. For this reason, there are several perfectly signposted routes, such as those that link the different military forts. Some of these trails are also practicable with mountain bikes, easily rented here.
That in terms of land, because in the sea it is possible to dive and discover its incredible depths. What is forbidden is fishing, since we must not forget that we are in the protected territory of a unique national park, an authentic jewel to discover in French Provence.
