A city of culture and history , Hyères les Palmiers is well worth a visit! Its architectural style is distinctive, and there are many wonders to discover. For example, stroll through the narrow streets of the medieval quarter and then visit the Villa Noailles , an avant-garde space and home to the arts . Take a walk along the protected salt marshes and encounter the pink flamingos ! Many interesting and family-friendly attractions await you in this vibrant city!
Old Hyères and the Olbius Riquier garden
As in Bormes , you'll find the remains of a castle originally built by the Lords of Fos . It overlooks Hyères , and you can explore its ruins. Wander among the old stones and medieval buildings , including the Church of St. Paul and the Templar Tower , amidst numerous narrow streets and period ramparts, all bathed in the ochre and powdery hues typical of Provence ! You'll also find many markets, including the one in the town center every Tuesday and Saturday morning year-round, on Avenue Gambetta. For a family stroll in a botanical garden, visit the Olbius Riquier Park, a designated " Remarkable Garden ." There you'll find exotic plants and free-roaming birds, such as peacocks and ducks!
Villa Noailles and the museums
The Villa Noailles , located in the old town of Hyères, is a landmark in the world of art and culture. It offers numerous traveling exhibitions throughout the year, as well as events, performances, and more. Each year, it organizes a fashion and photography festival and an architecture competition. For rainy days , for example, you'll also find unique museums such as the Musée de La Banque (the former Banque de France building, now a Museum of Cultures and Landscape) , or the Villa Magdala , an art center and creative space nestled in a historic villa surrounded by nature!
The Giens Peninsula and the Salt Marshes
The Salins , former salt marshes now a protected bird sanctuary , form the double tombolo leading to the Giens Peninsula . If you love nature, this incredible and magnificent site is truly a must-see. The Salins reserve is home to over 200 species of birds, including the majestic pink flamingo . There are trails, including the coastal path , that allow you to walk along the Salins and then along the coast at the tip of the peninsula. Also visit the small village of Giens. You'll also find the Tour Fondue ferry terminal, another way to take a ferry to the island of Porquerolles.
The Golden Islands
The Îles d'Or, or Îles de Hyères— Porquerolles , Port-Cros , and Le Levant —are located just off the coast of Hyères and opposite Bormes-les-Mimosas . These three islands boast breathtaking colors, translucent waters, and fine sandy beaches, all surrounded by stunning natural beauty perfect for hiking and cycling. Charming little harbors evoke a bygone era, especially at sunset. It's like being at the ends of the earth, yet only a short boat ride away!
The archaeological site of Olbia
The site is a remnant of the fortified city of Olbia , founded by the Greeks around 325 BC! You can see the remains of baths, shops, and houses from that era, and discover the evolution of an ancient city over 1000 years. It is open to the public from April to the end of October.
