Hyères, French Riviera, France
Hyères, a charming town located approximately 50 km west of the glamorous Saint-Tropez and just 4 km from the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, holds the distinction of being the oldest resort on the illustrious Côte d'Azur. Its allure captivated British visitors as early as the late eighteenth century, drawn by its exceptional climate. Due to its unique geographical position and mild winters, Hyères flourished as a sought-after destination during the colder months, a characteristic that also greatly facilitated the flourishing cultivation of palm trees. Indeed, Hyères proudly boasts the largest number of these elegant trees among all the resorts on the French Riviera, creating a distinctive botanical landscape. As you leisurely stroll through the town, you'll find these graceful plants adorning almost every corner, truly embodying Hyères' reputation as the "town of palms."
Parking in Hyères
Finding convenient parking in Hyères is generally straightforward, especially with well-located options that provide easy access to the town's historical center and vibrant attractions. The town has invested in modern parking solutions to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for visitors arriving by car, allowing them to quickly transition from their vehicle to exploring the charming streets and sights of this ancient Riviera resort. Choosing the right parking spot can significantly enhance your overall visit, providing peace of mind as you immerse yourself in Hyères' unique atmosphere.
During our visit, we found the Clemenceau underground parking lot (1; GPS: 43.120861, 6.132410) to be an excellent choice due to its ideal proximity to the old town, placing you right at the heart of the historic center upon exit. This facility is quite sizable, offering a generous 416 parking spaces, ensuring availability even during busier periods. Detailed pricing information for the Clemenceau parking can be found on the parking lot's official website, allowing you to plan your budget accordingly. As an alternative, you might also consider the Gambetta parking lot, located at Rue du Soldat Bellon (2; GPS: 43.118988, 6.128403). This option offers an even larger capacity with 443 spaces, providing another reliable choice for secure parking in Hyères, particularly if you plan to explore the newer parts of the town or simply prefer a different entry point to your adventure.
The Old Town
Exploring the Old Town of Hyères is a truly immersive journey through centuries of history, offering a labyrinth of charming streets, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking viewpoints. This historic core, perched on a hillside, invites visitors to wander at leisure, discovering hidden gems around every corner while absorbing the rich heritage of the Côte d'Azur's oldest resort. The architecture tells tales of various eras, from medieval times to its flourishing period as a winter retreat for European aristocracy.
Your exploration typically begins by strolling down Rue Portalet street, which gracefully leads you towards the lively Massillon square. Here, you'll be greeted by the impressive Templar tower (Tour des Templiers, GPS: 43.121401, 6.128506), an iconic landmark also known as the Chapelle Saint-Blaise. This twelfth-century tower, built by the legendary Templar Knights, offers a fantastic opportunity to climb to its top, rewarding your effort with splendid panoramic views of the entire town and its picturesque surroundings. From the square, it's highly recommended to ascend to the very top of the hill, where the evocative ruins of the castle (GPS: 43.121173, 6.124636) are nestled. To reach this elevated point, follow Rue de la Croix, then Avenue Victor Basch, and finally turn right into the charmingly narrow Allée Castel Sainte Claire. The castle's silhouette is strikingly interesting when viewed from below, but once you find yourself at the summit, the vistas of the town below and the entire azure bay stretching out to the horizon are truly breathtaking, offering an unparalleled photographic opportunity. However, it is crucial to pay attention to your footwear; the path leading up can be quite steep in places and is often covered with small, loose pebbles, making it easy to slip. Choosing sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip will ensure a safer and more enjoyable ascent to this magnificent viewpoint, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical grandeur and natural beauty of Hyères.
The town of palms
Hyères proudly wears its title as the "town of palms," a distinction immediately evident as you venture beyond the ancient confines of its Old Town and into the more contemporary areas. This botanical abundance is not merely decorative; it's a defining characteristic that sets Hyères apart from other Riviera resorts, creating a unique, almost exotic atmosphere. The sheer volume of these majestic trees contributes significantly to the town's charming ambiance, reflecting its long history as a favored winter retreat where such cultivation thrived.
Upon leaving the historic core, head in a southern direction along the elegant Avenue Gambetta. As you proceed, you'll quickly discover that palm trees are truly ubiquitous, gracing every street, square, and garden—they are undeniably the signature trademark of the town, shaping its distinctive identity. It's reported that at the beginning of the twentieth century, an astonishing one million palm trees adorned the town and its surrounding area, a testament to the ideal climate and dedicated cultivation efforts. Your journey will lead you into the newer parts of Hyères, where you'll pass by numerous exquisite nineteenth-century villas. These grand residences were constructed during the period when Hyères first gained prominence as a renowned resort, reflecting the architectural styles and wealth of its early visitors. Your walk culminates as you head towards the strikingly beautiful Villa Tunisienne (GPS: 43.117645, 6.125826), a architectural gem that embodies the town's unique blend of French elegance and exotic influences.
Villa Tunisienne
The Villa Tunisienne stands as a remarkable architectural jewel in Hyères, embodying a fascinating blend of late nineteenth-century French design with distinctive North African influences. Its construction marks a pivotal period in Hyères' history, when the town was flourishing as a fashionable winter retreat for discerning European travelers. This villa is not just a building; it's a piece of living history that reflects the global inspirations influencing architecture and design during the Belle Époque, adding an exotic flair to the Côte d'Azur landscape.
Villa Tunisienne was majestically constructed in the late nineteenth century, specifically in 1884, a period noted for its opulent and experimental architectural styles. It was conceived and built by the talented architect Pierre Chapoulart, who notably chose it as his personal place of residence, a testament to his pride and vision for the project. As you admire this architectural masterpiece, you'll be captivated by its original arches, which evoke a sense of grandeur and historical charm. The villa is further adorned with distinctive battlements, adding a touch of defensive elegance, and boasts an exquisite polychrome decoration, all meticulously crafted in the captivating Moorish style. This intricate detailing, with its vibrant colors and geometric patterns, beautifully transports onlookers to distant lands, making the Villa Tunisienne a unique and unforgettable sight within Hyères, truly embodying a fusion of cultures and artistic expression.
Tropical garden in Londe-les-Maures
Just a short and pleasant distance from Hyères, in the charming village of La Londe-les-Maures, lies a truly enchanting destination for nature lovers and curious minds: a unique tropical zoo and garden. This establishment offers a wonderful escape into a world of exotic flora and fauna, providing a stark yet beautiful contrast to the typical Mediterranean landscape of the Côte d'Azur. It's an ideal spot for families, botanists, and animal enthusiasts alike, promising an educational and visually stunning experience that highlights the incredible diversity of life on Earth.
Within this verdant oasis, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of a wide array of fascinating plants, including resilient succulents, majestic palms, towering bamboo, and fragrant eucalyptus, all thriving in a carefully cultivated environment that mimics their natural tropical habitats. Beyond the botanical wonders, the garden is also home to a diverse collection of animals, boasting approximately 250 species primarily from the tropical regions of the Earth. This living collection allows visitors to observe and learn about a variety of creatures, from colorful birds to intriguing reptiles, making it a mini-safari experience. Conveniently, a dedicated parking lot (3; GPS: 43.147673, 6.255349) is located very close to the garden entrance, ensuring easy access for all visitors. This proximity to Hyères makes the tropical zoo and garden a perfect excursion for a half-day trip, offering a refreshing and educational break from the coastal scenery and an opportunity to connect with the wonders of the natural world.
Gastronomy in Hyères
The gastronomy of Hyères beautifully blends the rich culinary traditions of Provence with the fresh bounty of the Mediterranean Sea. As the oldest resort on the Côte d'Azur, its dining scene offers a delightful array of flavors, from authentic local dishes to refined culinary experiences. The town's connection to both the land and the sea ensures a diverse and high-quality gastronomic offering, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and the vibrant tastes of the south of France.
What to Try?
- Fresh Seafood: Given its proximity to the Mediterranean, fresh fish and seafood are staples. Look for grilled fish, bouillabaisse (a traditional Provençal fish stew), or local shellfish.
- Provençal Specialties: Indulge in classic Provençal dishes like ratatouille (a vegetable stew), tapenade (olive spread), pistou soup (a vegetable soup with basil pesto), and various dishes featuring local herbs (herbes de Provence), olives, and olive oil.
- Local Fruits and Vegetables: The fertile region around Hyères yields abundant fresh produce. Enjoy ripe tomatoes, fragrant melons, and a variety of sun-kissed fruits and vegetables, often featured in salads or tarts.
- Rosé Wine: The Côte d'Azur is renowned for its crisp rosé wines. A chilled glass of local rosé is the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal, especially on a warm day.
- Tarte Tropézienne: While originating from nearby Saint-Tropez, this sweet brioche filled with cream is a regional icon and a must-try dessert, widely available in local patisseries.
- Brousse du Var: A fresh, soft goat or sheep cheese from the Var department, often eaten with honey or fruit, offering a light and refreshing local taste.
Where to Eat?
Hyères offers a variety of dining settings, from charming eateries in the old town to modern restaurants in the newer areas, catering to different preferences and occasions.
- Old Town Restaurants: The narrow, winding streets of the Old Town hide many traditional restaurants and bistros. These often feature outdoor seating in picturesque squares, providing an intimate and authentic dining experience with a focus on regional cuisine.
- Port and Coastal Area: If you venture closer to the port and coastal areas (Port d'Hyères, about 4 km from the old town), you'll find numerous seafood restaurants specializing in fresh catches of the day, often with views of the marina.
- Covered Market (Les Halles): For a more casual and immersive culinary experience, visit the local covered market. Here, you can find fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and prepared dishes, perfect for a picnic or a quick, authentic bite.
- Cafes and Patisseries: Throughout the town, especially in the central areas, numerous cafes and patisseries offer delightful pastries, fresh bread, and excellent coffee, ideal for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Dining in Hyères is an integral part of its charm, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine amidst a backdrop of historical beauty and lush palms.
Activities and Events in Hyères
Hyères, as the oldest resort on the Côte d'Azur, offers a rich tapestry of activities and events that blend its historical charm with its vibrant modern life. Beyond simply admiring its picturesque streets and abundant palm trees, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, from exploring ancient landmarks to enjoying cultural spectacles and embracing the natural beauty of the region. The town's dynamic calendar ensures there's always something engaging happening, catering to diverse interests and making every visit unique.
One of the primary activities is to explore the Old Town, wandering through its charming Rue Portalet street towards Massillon square, where the impressive Templar tower (Tour de Templiers, GPS: 43.121401, 6.128506) stands. You can climb this historic tower for excellent panoramic views of the town. A must-do is ascending to the top of the hill to discover the ruins of the castle (GPS: 43.121173, 6.124636), which offers breathtaking vistas of Hyères and the entire bay, a perfect spot for photography. Beyond the historical core, take a leisurely stroll along Avenue Gambetta, immersing yourself in the town's unique identity as the "town of palms," with palm trees gracing every corner. Admire the beautiful nineteenth-century villas that line the avenues, leading to architectural gems like Villa Tunisienne (GPS: 43.117645, 6.125826), a stunning example of Moorish-inspired design. For a delightful excursion slightly outside the town, visit the tropical zoo and garden in La Londe-les-Maures (parking: 3; GPS: 43.147673, 6.255349), where you can discover a rich variety of exotic plants and approximately 250 species of tropical animals. Hyères also hosts numerous cultural and social events throughout the year, celebrating its history, music, and local traditions. The lively atmosphere of the town means you might encounter various local festivals, markets, or performances during your visit, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your experience on the French Riviera.
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