Hyeres

Hyères, in the Var department, is built around the Giens peninsula and its coastal footpath, popular for cycling and mask-and-snorkel swimming in the coves. Almanarre beach, known for its wind, is a favourite spot for watersports enthusiasts, while the Magic World amusement park draws families. The Tour Fondue serves as the departure point for boats to the island of Porquerolles, where a bike ride leads to Notre-Dame beach, and to the wilder, more unspoilt Port-Cros. The old town of Hyères, reachable by bus from the beaches, is worth a visit for its historic centre. Further afield, the surrounding Var countryside offers scenic drives as far as Sanary-sur-Mer or the calanques of Marseille. For a sweet treat, the Maison Gavroche ice-cream parlour serves good, reasonably priced homemade ice cream. Between beaches, islands and coastal trails, Hyères combines unspoilt nature with heritage, offering convenient access to the Golden Isles just a short boat ride from the Giens peninsula.