Port-Cros, a protected island
Wild landscapes. Impregnable cliffs. Nature walks. If you are looking for this type of scenery, Port-Cros is the perfect place!
Located between Porquerolles and the Levant, this charming island became, in December 1963, the first marine national park in Europe. It extends, moreover, over nearly 700 ha on land and 1300 ha at sea.
Today, Port-Cros is known for its enchanted walks as well as its fauna and flora located in the heart of unspoiled nature.
Port-Cros, a protected Island
Located just 15 kilometers from Giens, Port-Cros is a totally exotic pedestrian isle. Accompanied by the isles of Porquerolles and the Levant, it forms a historic trio: the Golden Isles. Moreover, Port-Cros is the smallest of the three islands.
Port-Cros is a protected reserve. This is why public access is regulated and is essentially limited to pedestrians. In addition, animals (dogs, for example) are not allowed outside the village. Of course, flammable objects (cigarettes, matches, etc.) are also prohibited.
Port-Cros and its enchanted walks
The island is made up of about 30 kilometers of hiking trails. A large number of circuits are available for you, with the aim of revealing all the natural wealth of this heavenly place.
The Plant Trail | 4.4km | 1h30 | green markup (steep athletic trail)
This little walk in the heart of Port-Cros will allow you to discover the Mediterranean flora. A few numbered ceramic plaques are placed all along the trail to help you discover the main characteristic plants of the island.
To find out more, I invite you to read the brochure.
Crédit photo : parc national de Port-Cros
Crédit photo : Flickr
The Valley of Solitude | 20mn | pink markup (easy)
This route takes you on the traces of life in the past… Between ruins and old buildings, discover the peasants and fishermen, who contributed to shaping and enriching the setting of the island. Thanks to this circuit, you meander through one of the three valleys and discover all the richness of Port-Cros.
To find out more, I advise you to take a look at the brochure.
Port-Cros, wild fauna and flora
The Island is endowed with an impressive terrestrial and marine biodiversity. During your visit to the Côte d’Azur and your excursion to the island of Port-Cros, you will undoubtedly have the chance to see a large number of animals characteristic of the region, including:
- Shearwaters,
- Yellow-legged Gulls
- Cormorants
- Big crows
- Peregrine falcons
- Blue tits
- Black-headed warblers
- Bottlenose dolphins…
If you are passionate or simply interested in the cultural history of the Island of Port-Cros, I invite you to go to the Maison de Parc, which is located directly on the island.
How to get to Port-Cros, this protected island?
To get to the island of Port-Cros, this protected island, the boat is the only possible means of transport.
Thanks to Blue Sky Boat, rent a boat for a day, a weekend or more and go to the closest point of the island (according to the regulations established by mooring areas). Once you are at a good distance, use the equipment provided on the boat (canoes, paddles, diving equipment) to contemplate this unspoilt nature a little closer!
To learn about the regulations, click here.
Do you want to rent the boat and discover Port-Cros and the Golden Islands? Not wait any longer !
Do you want to organize a unique and unforgettable event? Contact our team.
