Located just a few hours by TGV from Paris, the French Riviera, also called in French "Côte d'Azur", is one of the most popular destinations for sailing the Mediterranean. On board a sailboat or catamaran, you can discover this region with its idyllic scenery, fascinating landscapes and enchanting moorings. With boat hire in Côte d'Azur, you can discover heavenly beaches and coves and discovering on your way cities and towns rich in history. Sailing in the French Riviera means cruising in the heart of the most beautiful French coast! In this article you will discover the places you should not miss during your stay in the French Riviera.
Hyères
Known as the "city of palm trees", Hyères and its 7,000 palm trees planted in the municipality will offer you magnificent, typically Mediterranean landscapes. In the heart of an exceptional setting and a preserved natural environment, you will discover this region and its 2,400 years of history. Once on the ground, don't miss the historic centre perched on a hill and dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle. Stroll through the narrow medieval streets, visit the Templar Tower, classified as a Historical Monument, and pass under the vaulted passage of the old ramparts. Hiring a boat in Hyères will be an opportunity to enjoy exceptional beaches between wild coves and large expanses of white sand. For those who love diving, be aware that Hyères has magnificent seabeds and world-famous dive sites. From Hyères you can easily reach the surrounding islands, such as the Giens peninsula or the famous "îles d'Or": Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Le Levant. It is important to know that the moorings are sufficiently regulated with regard to the Port-Cros National Park and the "îles d'Or" to preserve the natural landscape of the region. Among the most beautiful moorings, we recommend the Baie de Notre-Dame in Porquerolles and the Anse du Bon Renaud or the Baie de Port Man in Port-Cros. Did you know that off Hyères Islands you can get close to dolphins, turtles and whales? In fact, the waters of Hyères are part of the Pelagos Sanctuary, a protected maritime area.
Bormes-les-Mimosas
Classified as one of the most flowery countries and one of the most beautiful sites in France, Bormes-les-Mimosas is a fascinating country, with typical Provencal houses, narrow streets and coasts bathed by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Before you set out to discover the islands and nearby towns, don't forget to appreciate the beauty of this flowery village. If you are passionate about history and ancient stones, Bormes-les-Mimosas is a must-see! You can visit monuments such as the church of Saint Trophyme or the Fort de Brégançon, an extraordinary site that became the official residence of the Presidents of the Republic in 1968 at the proposal of General De Gaulle. For those who wish to combine a historical visit with a panoramic view, take the path that leads to the chapel of Notre-Dame de Constance: during this walk, you will discover the church, the castle, the oratories, the chapel and you will be able to contemplate a panorama that opens on the Var, the archipelago of the Golden Islands and the park of the mimosas. Hiring a boat in Bormes-les-Mimosas, you can enjoy the 17 kilometres-sandy beach bathed in crystal clear waters. Bormes-les-Mimosas offers quality beaches where great importance is given to the protection of the environment. Don't miss a visit to the beach of Pellegrin, one of the most beautiful jewels of the city. It is a huge cove of fine sand, surrounded by dense vegetation. Off the beaten track, it has managed to preserve its wild character between land and sea.
Port Grimaud
Time seems to have stopped here. Also named "Venice of Provence" or "French Venice", Grimaud is above all a port, which welcomes every year an impressive number of tourists looking for an exotic destination with timeless charm. Besides being a unique port, Port Grimaud is an ideal starting point for sailing to the Esterel massif, bordered on one side by the Mediterranean and on the other side by the limestone rocks of Provence! It is also an ideal starting point to get to the beautiful islands of Hyères. Before you go on an excursion, do not miss the unique opportunity to stroll through the streets of the authentic village, to relax on the beautiful sunny beaches, such as the beach of Port-Grimaud in front of Saint-Tropez or the beach of Les Cigales, much appreciated for its picturesque soul. Port Grimaud is one of the largest marinas in the French Riviera, where many sailors meet every summer. Hiring a boat in Port Grimaud will be an opportunity to discover the various enchanting places in the region. The luckier ones will also be able to meet the dolphins!
There's no need to repeat it, the French Riviera is one of the most beautiful regions in France! Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Côte d'Azur will not disappoint you: you will find the sea, the mountains, natural parks, an impressive fauna and flora, and also authentic towns and villages to discover!