First, Discover Hyères and its Beaches
Discover Kitesurfing in Hyères
Are you into water sports and would like to know more about the most beautiful kitesurfing spots in Hyères? If you’re in the region and dream of kitesurfing, here are the best sites to explore to practice kiteboarding in a dream setting with the best winds and sea conditions. Let’s now look at the best spots to discover the Giens peninsul “a and Porquerolles islan” d, very close to Hyères.
First, Discover Hyères and its Beaches
Hyères is a city located 25 km from Toulon and has beaches on the Mediterranean. Situated on the famous French Riviera, the city is home to incredible sites (its narrow streets, Villa Noailles, the Pic des Fées observatory…) and this naturally also includes its beaches and the coastline of the Giens “peninsula”, not to mention Porquerolles island and its unique panorama.
Among these internationally renowned beaches, Almanarre takes center stage. With a length of 5 kilometers, it stretch “es over the part of the strip of land that connects Hyères to Giens. The town hall has organized different zones to regulate summer vacationers, and if you wish to practice kitesurfing, you will need to go to the central zone, between accesses 16 and 21. If you kitesurf there, you will need to be careful with your take-offs. The beach is indeed not very wide, and the road is right behind it. During high season, you will have to use the channel to reach the open sea. You will encounter a west/north-west wind there. The spot is then ideal for freeride. When the east wind blows, the beach becomes a true mirror, ideal for freestyle. It should be noted that kitesurfing is prohibited there, except in two dedicated zones located in the center of the peninsula’s coast and on the west side of the Salt Road. On the east side, towards Porquerolles, the Mérou zone is also reserved for kitesurfers.
The most Popular Kitesurfing Spots
Almanarre is a spot world-renowned for kitesurfing, and many competitions take place there throughout the year. The entire Bay of Hyères allows for sailing under the mistral (a west wind) and on a very flat surface. This comes from the presence of tombolos, sand spits that connect the Giens Peninsula to the city.
The spot is ideal in the morning, as it offers extraordinary sunshine very early. One could say it’s an ideal sport for kitesurfing. The wind allows for easy take-offs and sailing on the sea, enjoying the pleasures of gliding.
It is also where the brilliant Éric Thiémé cut his teeth. Almanarre hosts the superb Gold Games freestyle competition every year.
This spot is appealing with its waves that appear when the southeast wind blows. This is combined with completely flat water due to the east wind. This area can experience powerful gusts. Nevertheless, you are always assured of being able to return to the beach. The waves there tend to close out and can therefore be ideal for those who jump rather than those who surf.
The waters there quickly become deep. In addition, there are strong waves, and some may find it difficult to get up and ride. They will then have to go to the Madrague area, which is shallower and less wavy. This place is also less crowded.
Finally, you can also practice your favorite sport just behind the Camping International. The spot is also less crowded and offers you calm for practicing kitesurfing.
Hyères is also a very popular local spot, as it allows for optimal progression. Unlimited possibilities are then available to surfers of all levels. However, if your level remains very average, you can also sail at the Mérou site, accessible to beginners. The place is a vast beach, easier to access. However, this site presents inverted sailing conditions compared to Almanarre. When the west wind blows, the surface will be flat. It will be choppy with an east wind.
You can also practice on the Giens Peninsula. It features very beautiful coves.
Discover Kitesurfing in Hyères
If you wish to get started with kitesurfing or progress in the best way, why not contact a kite school? This will be the best way to discover the different local spots and find those that excite you the most to return to on your own. The Kitesurf, Kitefoil, and Wing Foil school in Hyères in the Var (KGG) allows you to get started or learn more about kitesurfing and become a true pro at this sport. We are located on Almanarre Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. In addition to lessons, you can choose courses to further improve your kiteboarding practice with passionate professionals.
