Based in the quaint Riviera town of Le Lavandou, right on the Med sea, you can explore some of the best kept secrets of the Riviera. Enjoy walks along the pristine and unspoilt coastal paths and hop on a boat for a trip out to the “Golden Islands” of Porquerolles and Port Cros, an absolute paradise for nature and walking trails and famous for their wild coasts, sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters. It is also an ideal place to go snorkeling thanks to its exceptionnal "Marine Reserve". End your trip by exploring the Mediterranean gardens of Le Rayol. This is unmistakably hidden Riviera at its best !
Please note that order of the hikes in the itinerary may change depending on the ferry schedule.
Arriving in the quaint town of Le Lavandou, settle in for your 5-night stay in the heart of the town. Stroll along the quayside and beautiful beaches, or sit in one of the numerous cafés and watch the world go by. Centre-stage is the pétanque grounds where the locals come to play every afternoon: pastis is consumed and the competition is fierce.
Meals included : None
Night : Le Lavandou
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A ferry crossing from Le Lavandou (45 min each way - return trip included) takes you to the island of Porquerolles the biggest of the three Golden islands. You reach the port and walk through its quaint hamlet. You can visit the Villa Carmignac, an old farm house that has been beautifully renovated and turned into a comtemporary art museum. The rest of the island is given over to nature with walking paths criss crossing in every direction through pine forests and arbutus trees. A short climb leads to a view point where the entire island is at your feet and the infinite expanse of the Mediterranean on the horizon. A winding path through the heather descends in gentle zigzags back to the coast. Return to the port and ferry ride back to Le Lavandou.
Morning taxi transfer to the Pellegrin beach, along the protected coasline path. The path leads you to untamed inlets of turquoise waters lined with wild lavender and cistus flower. The picture postcard protected coastline is simply magical ! Halfway through your walk you will come across a stunning beach, an opportunity for a swim and the place to lunch in one of the best restaurants along the coast specializing in seafood and pizzas cooked over a wood fire. You continue your journey along the coastal path to reach the centuries-old Brégançon fort now used as a summer retreat for the French President. Transfer back to Le Lavandou
A ferry ride (30 min each way - return trip included) takes you to Port Cros National Park, where heather grows as thick as trees and the massive oak trees line the majestic walking paths. This is the most rugged and preserved of the Golden islands. The island sees few visitors, especially during the offseason, where you feel like you have the island to yourself. The island’s coastline also benefits from minimal tourism and nearing the waters you can see scores of colourful fish and aquatic plants : a paradise for snorkelling! Your walk takes you along a shaded and lush valley to the island’s summit overlooking the sheer cliffs where circling peregrine falcons await their prey. The paths glitter with golden mica and then lead you back to the port.
Today, you have a free day to discover the exceptionnal botanical gardens of the "Domaine de Rayol". Short transfer by bus to Le Rayol Canadel village ( 20/30 mn ride. Bus ticket 3€ not included). 
End of your trip after breakfast in Le Lavandou.
