What to do on vacation in Porquerolles
Located less than 2 hours by car from La Rouillère campsite in Ramatuelle, the island of Porquerolles is a small, partially protected land paradise that you should visit during your camping vacation in the Var.
Sunbathing on the beaches of Porquerolles
Porquerolles is first and foremost a paradise of beaches. It has to be said that the island’s beaches are incredible. Plage Notre-Dame was voted Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2015. Plage de la Courtade, Plage d’Argent, Plage du Langoustier and Plage noire du Langoustier are also well worth a visit for a lazy session in Porquerolles.
Sailing between the Golden Isles
During your camping vacation in Porquerolles, it would be a shame not to take advantage of a boat trip around the Golden Isles: Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Ile du Levant. Some companies offerday cruises with a stopover on Port-Cros and a snorkeling session. You can also rent a boat on Porquerolles, provided you have a driver’s license.
See the famous forts of Porquerolles
Porquerolles’ strategic position has given rise to several forts over the centuries. The best known is Fort Saint-Agathe, which dates back to the reign of François 1er. It can be visited all year round. Also worth seeing, but not visiting, are Fort Alycastre, Fort du Grand Langoustier and Fort de la Repentance.
Taste the local wine
The island is home to 3 wineries: Domaine de la Courtade (near La Courtade beach), Domaine Perzinsky and Domaine de l’île, an organic vineyard classified AOP Côtes-de-Provence. If you like good wine, you can visit an estate during your stay in the Var and take part in a tasting session.
Discover Mediterranean flora at the Emmanuel Lopez garden
This fabulous Mediterranean garden is located in the north of the island, near the port. It also features plants from Africa and America and numerous palm trees. The garden is named after a former director of the Port-Cros National Park, which manages and protects three-quarters of the island.
Hiking and mountain biking
Several trails criss-cross the island, allowing you to explore its natural beauty on foot or by mountain bike. They bear the evocative names of circuit des forts, circuit des crêtes or randonnée de l’eau. A map is available from the tourist office.
Visit the Moulin du Bonheur
Several typical Provencal mills dot the island. The Moulin du Bonheur is the best known and best restored. Located near Fort Saint-Agathe, it can be visited in high season in the presence of a guide.
Admire contemporary art at the Villa Carmignac
The Villa Carmignac is home to the Carmignac Foundation, dedicated tocontemporary art. In addition to a number of permanent works, the villa hosts a number of attractive temporary exhibitions throughout the year. You can also visit the garden and its sculptures.
Contemplate the panorama from the lighthouse
Built in 1830, the Cap d’Arme lighthouse illuminates the surrounding area at night. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but it’s well worth the detour for its views: you can see all the way to Fort Saint-Agathe. A little further east, don’t miss the Calanque de L’Indienne, one of the most beautiful spots on the island of Porquerolles.
Explore the seabed
During their vacation in Porquerolles, amateur divers can enjoy a variety of diving clubs offering courses and diving trips in the Port-Cros National Park, where fishing is prohibited. Fish of all sizes (including groupers and barracudas), wrecks and coral: diving on the island of Porquerolles is guaranteed to amaze!
