The activities
A true paradise of the Var, Porquerolles is the largest of the Golden Islands. The island is located on the same parallel as the Cap Corse, which makes it the most southern point of the Provencal Coast. It is the ideal place for a vacation rental. The island of Porquerolles allows you to practice many activities from cycling to diving! On the island, you will find 54 km of marked hiking trails and circuits for mountain bikes. It is very easy to find mountain bike rentals (adults and children), city bikes or electric bikes. Those who prefer water sports will be spoilt for choice: jet skiing, diving, sailing, paddle, sea kayaking, canoeing...
Porquerolles is also home to the Carmignac Foundation, an impressive collection of contemporary art. If the foundation has more than 300 works and hosts each year the photojournalism prize, the Villa Carmignac is accessible to the public to discover works surrounded by a garden dressed with many sculptures in the enchanting setting of Porquerolles.
The history of Porquerolles
The island has been influenced by many civilizations (Celtic, Ligurian, Etruscan, Greek and Roman) and recent excavations have brought to light several archaeological sites.
Inhabited since ancient times, the island has remained in its natural state. It is from the 16th century that it becomes a defense point with the fort Sainte-Agathe, then the fort of Langoustier and the fort of Alycastre. The village was created in 1820, the lighthouse in 1837 and the church in 1850.
In 1912, the island was bought by a businessman, Mr. Fournier, who gave it as a gift to his wife. It is at this period that the vine and market gardening are developed. Today, the island of Porquerolles is managed by the Port-Cros National Park. In 2012, it was classified as "Heart of the National Park".
