Port Cros Island

 island, seaport, nature conservation park / area

Port Cros is located between Porquerolles island and îLe Levant island. It's the smallest of the three islands which make up the "îles d'Or" in the golf of Hyères.

The island has five forts which bear witness to its past as defences for Port Cros. The oldest fort dates from François I° reign (Fort du Moulin). Only two of the forts are open to the public : the Fort de l'Eminence (30 mn by foot from the port) and the Fort de l'Estissac (15 mn by foot from the port). The latter is an ideal vantage point to view the island.

Port Cros is the hilliest and wildest of the three islands, and you'll appreciate the absolute calm and quiet of the island. Just like Robinson Crusoe's island, as long as you avoid July and August.

The Moulin, Port Man, and la Vigie forts : not open to the public.
The Eminence and Estissac forts : open in summer.
In the Estissac fort, free exhibition of "Port Cros History" .

Access to the island by ferry:
all year round from Lavandou port (20 mn) or from Hyères port (1 hour).


Since 1963, the entire island has become a National park and is unique in Europe as the park takes in a maritime zone which extends 600 metres around the coast. In the extraordinarily clear waters which surround the island a signposted underwater "nature" trail has been created, just like the long distant footpaths! Along this "route" you can discover the incredible range of underwater flora and fauna but be careful as all the fish and fauna are protected, you can go underwater fishing here! The underwater guided visit is free, but bring your mask, snorkel and fins!