Itinerary among the Moorings of Two Stunning Islands of the Côte d’Azur

For lovers of the sea, sailing and nature, the islands of Porquerolles and Port-Cros certainly represent the ultimate destination. The crystal-clear water, lush and pristine flora, and incredible marine species heritage are the protagonists of the Parc National de Port-Cros, a natural oasis to which these islands belong and which borders the Giens promontory and Cap Larder, extending throughout the Hyères peninsula.

All sporting and recreational activities in these areas are strictly monitored to protect the fragile ecosystem of the territory, especially regarding coralline algae and posidonia meadows. The Sanctuarie Pelagos, which includes Porquerolles and Port-Cros, is also a marine area dedicated to protecting Mediterranean cetaceans.

As a starting point for this itinerary, Port de la Capte, located along the Hyères promontory, can be a good candidate. Those who decide to undertake the journey “off-season,” during spring or winter, will have the opportunity to admire the magnificent seasonal changes of the flora present on both islands.

The itinerary is not particularly complex; however, it is important to consider wind intensity and the heavy summer recreational traffic.

Porquerolles, 10 minutes by boat from Pointe de Giens, is the largest of the Îles d’Or.

Upon arrival, you will notice magnificent panoramas dotted with a series of wonderful bays and coves where you can find shelter from the winds.
The Baie de l’Alycastre, northeast of the island, is one of the most extensive bays, with a series of light and fine beaches, among which the notable Plage de Notre Dame. You will get good shelter from easterly winds but no protection from northwest currents.

South of the island, you will be well protected from northwest currents in the Anse de la Galère, the part of the island farthest from the town center and most pristine. The Port de Porquerolles offers shelter from south and easterly winds. The organized landing is a safe point where you can moor and venture into the island to eat at one of the small local restaurants or shop at the food stores.

Definitely worth trying is bicycle rental in the port area to then move along the various trails covered by woods and alternating with breathtaking panoramas until reaching the island’s various ancient forts.

Sailing eastward, you continue to Port-Cros, smaller, wilder and more pristine than its larger counterpart. It is not possible to travel by bicycle and there are few mooring points. The only ones are the Port de Port-Cros, northwest, sheltered from southeast winds, and the Baie de Port-Man, a cove northeast sheltered from south and west winds.

For excursions, Port-Cros is ideal, thanks to its countless trails and ancient forts. The seabeds are incredible, rich in species that attract snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

On the return journey, moving toward the Anchorages de Hyères, you can sail north, slightly extending your route to stop at Anse de Bregançon. Here there is no shortage of charming and pleasant coves where you can anchor. . Consider, for example, the Anse de Cabasson – sheltered by the cape of Fort de Bregançon, with its beautiful easily accessible beaches – and the Anse de l’Estagnol with its characteristic fishing village. Both bays are well sheltered from northwest and northeast winds.

Moving westward and sailing south to return to Port de la Capte, you can choose to extend your navigation, approaching the Giens promontory and reaching the Rade de la Badine, where you can find various mooring fields organized by the Var department and enjoy good shelter from almost all winds, except easterly ones.