Set off to discover the smallest, wildest and most unspoilt of the Golden Isles: the island of Port-Cros.

Depart from the port of La Londe-les-Maures and embark on a pleasant boat trip along the coastline. After around 45 minutes of guided sailing with Les Bateliers de la Côte d'Azur, you'll dock at the port of Port-Cros, the gateway to a veritable natural sanctuary.

At the heart of Europe's first national marine park, created in 1963, Port-Cros is a fully protected island that has remained in its natural state. There are no cars or bicycles here: you discover the island exclusively on foot, at nature's pace, along signposted hiking trails.

A veritable refuge for birds and land and sea mammals, the island offers total immersion in exceptional biodiversity. Fauna and flora are everywhere, both on land and underwater. Port-Cros is home to an underwater trail in the bay of La Palud, in the heart of a garden of posidonia, a veritable nursery for fish. Equipped with mask and snorkel, let yourself be amazed by this unique natural spectacle.

As you stroll along, you'll discover wild valleys, a spectacular rocky coastline and two magnificent natural bays ideal for snorkelling: Port-Man and the bay of La Palud, famous for its underwater trail.

The Port-Cros National Park manages and protects the island. Its mission is to preserve the island's species, ecosystems, landscapes and cultural heritage. This exceptional territory remains accessible thanks to everyone's vigilance and compliance with specific regulations designed to protect these fragile environments, ensure that uses co-exist and prevent risks.

VISIT TIPS
The island can only be explored on foot via signposted hiking trails.
Bring hiking boots, a cap, plenty of water and environmentally-friendly sun cream.
- To make the most of the underwater trail, remember to bring a mask, snorkel and, if you have them, flippers.
- Keep to the marked paths to preserve the natural environment.

PRATICAL INFORMATION
When you visit Port-Cros, you are entering a protected and fragile natural area. In order to preserve this exceptional setting, please observe the following rules:
- camping is forbidden,
- rubbish must be deposited in the containers provided,
- picking plants and collecting species is forbidden,
- smoking is forbidden outside the village,
- dogs are not allowed on the island.
- from June to September, the island is subject to fire risks and access may be completely forbidden if the risk is classified as extreme red. Daily information on access to forest areas can be found on the Préfecture du Var website: https://www.risque-prevention-incendie.fr/var/
- Unfortunately, the island is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties, due to its natural configuration.

Each visitor contributes to the protection of this natural jewel. By taking simple, responsible steps, you are helping to preserve the island... so that Port-Cros remains a little paradise to be discovered and rediscovered, today and in the future.

For more information on the regulations: Port-Cros National Park website, https://www.portcros-parcnational.fr/fr.