Island Wilderness at Parc national de Port-Cros 🏝️
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Parc national de Port-Cros, off the coast of Hyères in southern France, is a Mediterranean gem where pristine nature meets crystal-clear waters. Established in 1963, it was the first marine national park in Europe, protecting both the island’s wild landscapes and its surrounding sea. Covered in dense maquis shrubland and dotted with rugged cliffs, the island feels like a world apart from the mainland bustle.
It’s worth visiting because the park offers an incredible mix of hiking and marine exploration. Trails lead through pine forests and along dramatic coastlines, revealing hidden coves and panoramic viewpoints. Beneath the waves, snorkeling paths let you discover colorful fish and seagrass meadows in one of the most preserved marine environments in the Mediterranean. The small harbor village adds charm, with its simple cafés and laid-back atmosphere.
What makes Parc national de Port-Cros unforgettable is its sense of untouched beauty. Walking through its quiet paths or floating above its underwater world, I felt like I was experiencing the Mediterranean as it once was—raw, vibrant, and alive. For me, the visit was a reminder of the magic that happens when nature is protected and allowed to flourish.