The
area combines the very best of Mediterranean landscapes, the
sea, the hills and the winegrowing plains.
The sea is very blue and sheltered from the winds. The Giens peninsula
has superb sandy beaches on both sides.
Opposite the
bay of Hyères lie the beautiful "Golden Islands",
Porquerolles, the most famous (20mns on the ferry), is ideal for
walking or cycling.The beautifully wooded island of Le Levant attract
mostly nudists.
Port-Cros (surrouded by its underwater national Parc)
is a paradise for divers.
The coastal footpath allows almost continuous walking all the around
the coast.
Inland the neighboring Maures hills with many a small vineyard
nestled in the valleys, offer unlimited scope for nature
lovers, and superb views over the sea and the islands.
Taking life easy is an integral part of a mediterranean
holiday. From the humblest village to the busy resort there is
no shortage of cafés and restaurants in the shade of the
"platanes" to welcome you after a day spent visiting
or at the beach. Local foods include fish and shellfish
as well as wild boar and lots of fruits. The local "Cotes
de Provence" wines come in shades of fruity whites,
refeshing rosés and sun gorged reds. The king of the aperitifs
however remains the "Pastis".