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The beautiful towns, villages, coastline and countryside of the Cote d’Azur in the south of France are world famous, but the lovely unspoilt islands a short ferry ride away are a better kept secret.
Take the boat from Hyeres to Porquerolles and wander through its historic forts and miles of pine forests, wild flowers and idyllic golden beaches.
Port-Cros, one of the aptly-named ’Iles d’Or’, is a wild paradise with delightful sea walks and is a strictly car-free zone.
A short distance from the glamour and glitz of Cannes lie the islands of Sainte Marguerite and Saint Honorat. Both have stunning natural sites and beaches and, on Saint-Honorat, the Catholic monks have turned much of the island into a picture perfect, peaceful garden.
From Toulon, the Ile d’Emblez is ideal for both walkers and beach lovers and there are many other smaller islands along this stunning coast just waiting for you to discover. Just remember to take a packed lunch and plenty of water; not all of the islands have bars or restaurants and if they do they’ll probably be rather popular!
Find out more about the other places featured in our Destinations to Watch 2025.
