Embark on an unforgettable adventure discovering the hidden treasures of the Mediterranean aboard your own yacht. Imagine sailing on crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, diving into secluded coves, and enjoying swimming in complete freedom. This yacht exploration opens the doors to unsuspected little gems, accessible only by sea. Join us for an exceptional journey through the most beautiful islands of Southern France.
The Lérins Islands: Hidden Treasures off the Coast of Cannes
The Lérins Islands, located off the coast of Cannes, offer an idyllic escape even for a day trip. The hardest part is choosing where to anchor between Saint-Honorat and Sainte-Marguerite. Our advice: don’t choose! Each of these islands offers culture, history, and heritage in an exceptional and protected environment.
Sainte-Marguerite
With no motor vehicles allowed, take the time to discover the larger of the two islands on foot to immerse yourself in the fauna and flora of this protected island. Trails offer 9 km of discovery. The Fort Royal is a must-see location, steeped in history: this is where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. You can visit his cell as well as a small museum displaying archaeological remains that testify to the island’s Roman past. Don’t forget your masks and snorkels aboard your yacht to explore the underwater ecomuseum, where six 2-meter statues, made of eco-friendly marine material, are gradually transforming into artificial reefs, promoting biodiversity.
Saint-Honorat
The island of Saint-Honorat, belonging to a community of Cistercian monks, invites you to tranquility and meditation. Enjoy the wines and liqueurs produced by the monks of Lérins Abbey, founded in 410 by Saint Honorat. A journey through time awaits you with a visit to the monastery and its seven chapels. Also discover the typical Mediterranean vegetation, with an abundance of Aleppo pines and eucalyptus trees.
Porquerolles: The Pearl of the Golden Islands
A haven of peace just a few minutes’ sail from the Port of Hyères Les Palmiers, the island of Porquerolles is the pearl of the three Hyères islands, commonly known as the Golden Islands. Large enough to offer you, even in high season, small lost paradises, Porquerolles is a must-visit destination for sailing enthusiasts. With your yacht, you can anchor in small isolated coves and enjoy unique swimming experiences in clear, turquoise waters. The north coast of the island is lined with fine sandy beaches decorated with pines and heather, while the steeper and wilder south face reveals spectacular and untouched landscapes. The village of Porquerolles, where you’ll find excellent restaurants and a charming little port, adds a picturesque touch to your visit. Whether you’re looking for tranquility, natural beauty, or local flavors, the island of Porquerolles will amaze you.
Les Embiez, Our Favorite!
Off the coast of Bandol, the freedom to sail with your yacht opens the doors to the Embiez Island. It’s our favorite, as it’s much less known than its neighbors, yet possesses all the assets to charm you. Acquired by Paul Ricard in the 1950s, along with its larger sister, Bendor Island (currently closed for a major preservation project), Embiez Island has been transformed into a natural sanctuary. In 1966, the owner founded the Paul Ricard Oceanographic Institute, dedicated to environmental protection. Today, the island is classified as a Natura 2000 site, testifying to its ecological importance. The Embiez offers magnificent coves, lush nature, and a multitude of family and sporting activities. Paul Ricard wished to protect this natural paradise and make it a destination for all those who aspire to rejuvenate and reconnect, far from the crowds and pollution of the mainland (excerpt from La Passion de Créer by Paul Ricard). This wish remains relevant today. A stay on the Embiez guarantees an enchanted interlude, off the beaten path, in an exceptional Mediterranean setting.
Accessible Paradises in the Mediterranean
There’s no need to travel far to discover small pieces of paradise in the Mediterranean that will dazzle you with their beauty. To fully enjoy these islands, here’s one last piece of advice: visit them outside the hours when tourist boats come and go. You will then discover them from a completely new perspective, almost alone in the world, in the morning tranquility or at twilight. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the regulations concerning navigation in these protected areas. Speed and anchorage zones are strictly regulated to ensure their preservation. By respecting these rules, you contribute to the safeguarding of these natural treasures so that, for years to come, they continue to amaze sailors from all horizons.
Leave A Comment