Port-Cros National Park Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Port-Cros National Park with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural and cultural attractions, discover the best things to do and places to stay, and learn about the local culture and customs.


Introduction to Port-Cros National Park

Port-Cros National Park is a protected area located in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France. It is known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The park covers an area of 600 hectares, including the two islands of Port-Cros and Porquerolles, as well as several smaller islets. It has been designated as a national park since 1963 and is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Port-Cros National Park

Whether you are a history buff, outdoors enthusiast, or just looking to soak up some sun and enjoy the views, Port-Cros National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places and attractions to visit in the park.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Sainte-Agathe: This 16th-century fortress located on the island of Porquerolles was built to protect the coast from pirates and invaders. It offers great views of the island and the coast, and is also home to a small museum dedicated to the history of the fort.
  • Château Sainte-Anne: This 19th-century building was originally used as a quarantine station for ships, but now houses a museum showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of Port-Cros National Park.
  • Church of Sainte-Anne: This beautiful 11th-century church located on the island of Porquerolles is a must-see for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Natural Attractions of Port-Cros National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hiking Trails: With over 35km of hiking trails, Port-Cros National Park offers a variety of routes for all levels of hikers. Some of the most popular trails include the Sentier des Douaniers, which offers stunning views of the coast, and the Sentier sous-marin de la Gabinière, an underwater trail for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
  • Beaches: Port-Cros National Park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, including Plage Notre-Dame on Porquerolles island and Plage de la Palud on Port-Cros island. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy shores.
  • Marine Life: Port-Cros National Park is also home to a rich marine life, with over 1,000 species of fish and other sea creatures. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities, with many dive centers offering guided tours and equipment rental.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port-Cros National Park

Port-Cros National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of the park. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Sentier des Douaniers: This 11km trail offers stunning views of the coast and takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the park. It starts at the village of Giens and ends at the Plage de l’Almanarre.
  • Sentier sous-marin de la Gabinière: This underwater trail is perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. It is located in the eastern part of the park and offers an opportunity to explore the rich marine life of the area.
  • Tour de Porquerolles: This 20km cycling route takes you around the island of Porquerolles and offers stunning views of the coast and the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Port-Cros National Park: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Port-Cros National Park offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Kayaking Tours: Explore the beautiful coastline of the park with a guided kayaking tour. You can also rent kayaks and explore on your own.
  • Catamaran Tours: Take a catamaran tour of the park and discover its stunning landscapes from the sea. Many tours also include snorkeling and swimming stops.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the local vineyards and taste the delicious wines of the region. Many vineyards offer tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Port-Cros National Park

If you’re planning to spend a week in Port-Cros National Park, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Day Itinerary
1 Arrive in the park and check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the village of Giens.
2 Spend the day hiking the Sentier des Douaniers.
3 Take a day trip to Porquerolles island and visit the Fort Sainte-Agathe and Château Sainte-Anne.
4 Spend the day exploring the beaches of the park, including Plage Notre-Dame and Plage de la Palud.
5 Take a kayaking tour of the park’s coastline.
6 Visit the local vineyards and taste the delicious wines of the region.
7 Depart from the park and continue your travels.

Food and Drink Scene of Port-Cros National Park

No visit to Port-Cros National Park would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soupe au Pistou: This is a traditional Provencal soup made with fresh vegetables, beans, and a special pesto sauce. It is perfect for a cold day and is typically served with bread.
  • Bouillabaisse: This is a fish stew made with local fish and seafood, flavored with saffron and other herbs. It is a popular dish in the area and is often served with crusty bread and rouille, a garlic mayonnaise.
  • Tarte Tropezienne: This is a sweet pastry filled with a light cream and topped with crunchy sugar. It was created in the town of Saint-Tropez and is a popular dessert in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: The region is known for its delicious wines, including the famous rosé wines of Provence. Red and white wines are also available, and many vineyards offer tastings and tours.
  • Pastis: This is a traditional French aperitif made with anise and other herbs. It is typically served with water and ice and is a popular drink in the region.

Where to Stay in Port-Cros National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Port-Cros National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Le Mas du Langoustier: This luxury hotel is located on the island of Porquerolles and offers stunning views of the sea. It has a spa, a restaurant, and a pool.
  • La Villa Sainte-Anne: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of the village of Giens and offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Les Mèdes: This eco-friendly hostel is located on the island of Port-Cros and offers simple but comfortable rooms and a shared kitchen.

What to Buy in Port-Cros National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home, here are some local products to consider:

  • Provençal Fabrics: The region is known for its colorful and vibrant fabrics, which are used to make clothing, tablecloths, and other decorative items.
  • Olive Oil: The region is famous for its high-quality olive oil, which is used in many local dishes and is a great souvenir to bring home.
  • Perfume: The town of Grasse, located near Port-Cros National Park, is known as the perfume capital of the world. You can find a variety of scents and perfumes in the local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Port-Cros National Park

The region has a rich cultural heritage, and many of its customs and traditions have been preserved over the years. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Respect for Nature: The park is a protected area, and visitors are asked to respect the environment and not leave any trash behind.
  • Local Language: French is the official language of the region, but some locals also speak Provençal, a regional language.
  • Dress Code: The region has a relaxed dress code, but it is recommended to dress appropriately when visiting churches or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Port-Cros National Park

The best time to visit Port-Cros National Park is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny and the beaches are at their best. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and the park can get crowded. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port-Cros National Park

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Port-Cros National Park:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trash behind.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Take a guided tour or hire a local guide to learn more about the area.

Don’t:

  • Pick flowers or disturb the local wildlife.
  • Go off-trail or climb on rocks or cliffs.
  • Ignore safety rules when swimming or snorkeling.

Safety and Health

Port-Cros National Park is generally a safe and healthy destination. However, here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Port-Cros National Park

  • Take care when hiking or biking, and follow all safety rules and guidelines.
  • Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and avoid going out in bad weather.
  • Be aware of the tides, currents, and other sea conditions when swimming, snorkeling, or diving.

Health in Port-Cros National Park

  • The park is generally a healthy destination, but it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before traveling, especially if you have any health conditions.
  • Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated during hot weather.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and other protective gear to shield yourself from the sun.

Getting to Port-Cros National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Port-Cros National Park is located in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France. Here are some transportation options to help you get there:

Airports Near Port-Cros National Park

The closest airports to Port-Cros National Park are:

  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS): about 110km from the park
  • Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE): about 120km from the park

Bus Stations Near Port-Cros National Park

The nearest bus station to Port-Cros National Park is the Toulon Bus Station. From there, you can take a bus to the village of Giens and then transfer to a ferry or boat to get to the park.

Other Options

You can also reach Port-Cros National Park by car, by train, or by taking a guided tour.

How to Get Around in Port-Cros National Park

Once you’re in the park, the best way to get around is by foot, by bike, or by boat. There are no cars allowed on the islands, and most of the trails and beaches are only accessible by foot or bike.

Where to Go Next from Port-Cros National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your travels after visiting Port-Cros National Park, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Saint-Tropez: This glamorous town is located about 50km from the park and is known for its beaches, boutiques, and yachts.
  • Cassis: This picturesque town is located about 80km from the park and is known for its stunning cliffs and calanques.
  • Aix-en-Provence: This historic city is located about 90km from the park and is known for its museums, markets, and cafes.

Conclusion

Port-Cros National Park is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in the local cuisine and wines, or just soak up some sun and relax on the beach, Port-Cros National Park has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in this stunning national park.

Port-Cros Harbour Port-Cros Harbour Fort de l'Estissac Fort de l'Estissac