Centred around the remains of a hilltop castle, Hyeres is a historic town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It’s the oldest resort on the French Riviera and home to an atmospheric old town, as well as several impressive villas. Splendid Mediterranean beaches dominate the Giens Peninsula that stretches to the south, with the Îles d’Hyères scattered just offshore.
Things to do in Hyères
Spend a day wandering the old town of Hyeres, where steep streets are lined with alfresco restaurants and residences boast beautiful bougainvillea. Marvel at the centuries-old walls and the remains of the city’s medieval castle, then explore the Cubist garden of the 1920s Villa Noailles. Designed by the renowned French architect Robert Mallet-Stevens, this striking modern mansion hosts art exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Stretching to the south of Hyeres is the Giens Peninsula, which is fringed by long stretches of sand such as Plage de l’Almanarre. After a day spent sunbathing and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, you can spot water birds wading in the surrounding salt marshes.
A short boat ride offshore lies Porquerolles, the largest of the three Îles d’Hyères. Much of the island is now protected as a national park, with blissful beaches, meandering hiking trails and fascinating underwater wrecks to explore. Further east is the island of Port-Cros, which provides an important refuge for local birdlife.
Getting around Hyères
Hyeres is just over an hour’s drive from the centre of Marseille and 1.5 hours from Marseille Provence Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Toulon–Hyères Airport is just 15 minutes from the city centre. Buses travel throughout Hyeres and boats connect to the Îles d’Hyères.