Porquerolles: The Golden Island

Porquerolles is the largest of the three “Golden Islands” (Îles d’Hyères) off the coast of Provence. It looks like a chunk of the Caribbean that broke off and floated to the Mediterranean. It is an island of white sand, turquoise water, eucalyptus forests, and vineyards.

In 2026, Porquerolles remains a sanctuary. Cars are banned. Smoking is banned outside the village (to prevent fires). The number of daily visitors is strictly capped in summer to protect the fragile environment. It is a place of silence, broken only by the sound of cicadas and bicycles.

Why Visit Porquerolles in 2026?

It offers the glamour of the French Riviera without the concrete and the traffic. In 2026, the Fondation Carmignac (a world-class contemporary art museum hidden underground) continues to draw art lovers. It is a rare destination that combines high culture with pristine nature.

Best Time to Visit

June & September: The water is warm enough, but the crowds haven’t peaked. The light is soft.
July & August: Sold out. You must book ferry tickets weeks in advance due to the visitor cap (6,000 per day).
October: Quiet and beautiful, though some restaurants close.

How to Get There

Ferry: From the Tour Fondue on the Giens Peninsula (near Hyères). The crossing takes 20 minutes.
Taxi Boat: Private transfers are available for a higher price.

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. Plage Notre Dame

Voted the best beach in Europe multiple times. It is a long strip of white sand backed by a pine forest. It is a 45-minute walk (or 20-minute cycle) from the village, which keeps it quieter than the nearby Plage d’Argent.

2. Cycling

Since there are no cars, everyone cycles. Rent a mountain bike (VTT) or e-bike on arrival. The tracks wind through vineyards and forests. The ride to the lighthouse (Phare) offers great views.

3. Fondation Carmignac

An art gallery built underneath a farmhouse to preserve the landscape. You visit barefoot. It houses works by Warhol, Basquiat, and Botticelli. The sculpture garden is equally impressive.

4. Plage d’Argent

The “Silver Beach.” The sand here is unique—it glitters. It is closer to the village and has a restaurant, making it popular with families.

5. Calanques

The south side of the island is rocky and wild. Trails lead to steep creeks (calanques) like Gorge du Loup where the water is deep blue.

Where to Stay

The Village: All hotels are concentrated around the Place d’Armes (the main square).
Le Mas du Langoustier: A luxury hotel located at the far western tip. Secluded and chic.
Boats: Many visitors sleep on their sailboats anchored in the bay.

Gastronomy: Rosé and Fish

Vin de Porquerolles: The island has three vineyards producing excellent Côtes de Provence (mostly Rosé). Domaine de l’Île is famous.
Fish: Freshly caught Mediterranean fish served simply with olive oil and lemon.
Ice Cream: The “Coco Fesses” flavor at the village glacier is a local joke/treat.

Sustainability & Fire

No Smoking: The risk of fire is extreme. Smoking is strictly forbidden in the forests and on the beaches. Heavy fines apply.
Water: Fresh water is brought by boat. Be conservative.

Safety and Tips

Mosquitoes: They can be fierce in the evenings. Bring repellent.
Booking: You cannot bring your car. Parking at the Tour Fondue on the mainland is expensive and must be booked in advance in summer.
Shoes: Bring sneakers for the bike riding. Flip-flops are for the beach only.

Digital Nomad Life

Living on Porquerolles as a nomad is a challenge due to the high cost and limited long-term housing. However, working here in the shoulder season (May or October) is feasible if you rent an apartment in the village. The 4G signal is strong across most of the island. It is an inspiring place for creatives, offering a “luxury isolation.” Most meetings happen over coffee in the Place d’Armes.

Family Travel

Porquerolles is heaven for families. The absence of cars means kids can cycle safely on the dirt tracks.

Beaches: Plage d’Argent has shallow water and a lifeguard, making it the safest choice for toddlers.
Ice Cream: The daily ritual of getting ice cream at the port is non-negotiable.
Forts: Exploring the old forts (like Fort Sainte Agathe) sparks the imagination of older children.

Porquerolles is a dream. It is refined, preserved, and heartbreakingly beautiful. It is the French art de vivre on an island.