Hyères, the

Hyères, the Presqu’île Hyères in the Cote d’Azur, southern France has it all – sun, sea, sand, stunning architecture, superb restaurants, delicious local wines and the chance to go island hopping says local Aaron James. and its Islands: HIDDEN GEMS of the Côte d’Azur A sunny ‘Belle Epoque’ town of the French Riviera, this beautiful coastal hub boasts 2,400 years of history and is home to remarkable natural heritage such as the National Park of Port-Cros and the Ile d’Or Archipelago. History lovers will adore the intricate medieval quarter and ancient Greek archaeological site. There are perfect conditions for water sports and remarkable wildlife for those who love the Beach Hyères outdoors. And if you want to relax by the sea, you’re totally spoilt for choice with numerous coves and glorious soft sand beaches spread along the Presqu’île de Giens and its islands. Few foreign tourists choose to holiday in Hyères, opting instead for the town’s glitzy neighbour St Tropez. While this won’t mean that hotels and restaurants are empty (it’s a favourite with the French), it certainly means that the area possesses a more authentic, ‘unspoilt’ feeling. A little bit of history As the oldest resort on the French Riviera, it is hardly surprising that the town is steeped in history. You can’t help but marvel at the remains of the Hellenic city of Olbia, established in 4BC, or at the ancient Greek archaeological site near Almanarre beach. Meanwhile, just up the road, there was a Roman settlement at Pomponiana. Pass through the Porte de la Rade, erected in the late twelfth century, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time as you stroll the town’s medieval winding streets and ogle the centuries old houses. Don’t miss the Tour de Blaise as you check out the delicious delicatessens and lively fishmongers, artisan shops and booksellers en route. Also known as the Tour des Templiers, this tower is the last vestige of a larger chapel constructed by the Knights Templar some eight hundred years ago. Nowadays, it serves as a cultural space and hosts many theatrical shows. Although in ruins, the castle which overlooks Hyères has not lost its majesty. Gazing across the Provençal countryside, and out towards the peninsula, it’s easy to imagine how it looked in the 16th century. 68 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 69