According to the New York Times, Hyères, in the Var, boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Proud of its 5 kilometres of fine white sand, the beach of Almanarre is revealed before the eyes of lovers of wild nature and sea spray.
Where is the beach of Almanarre located?
According to legend, King Olbianus had four daughters, each more beautiful than the next. While they were enjoying a moment of relaxation in the blue waters of the Mediterranean, the king saw a pirate ship coming dangerously close to the shore. Fearing for his daughters, he begged them to return to dry land. Unfortunately, the unfortunate girls had sailed too far out to sea. Olbianus prayed to heaven to protect the princesses. They became the four islands of Hyères. The youngest one stretched out her arms towards her father before being petrified. It became the peninsula of Giens and its outstretched arms the two tongues of land that link Giens to the mainland. It is on this peninsula that the beach of Almanarre is located.
How to get there?
Located on the salt road, the beach of Almanarre is on one of the tombolos which connect the peninsula to Hyères. To get to the beach, it is possible to take a walk or a bike ride from the town of Hyères les Palmiers. This excursion is about 5 kilometres long and should take a good hour of walking. By car or taxi, you can follow the salt road, which is open in season, or take the road. Finally, the beach can also be reached by public transport using bus line 39.
What is the water temperature on the beach of Almanarre?
The beach of Almanarre is bathed in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. In general, the off-season temperature from January to April is around 15° and then it gradually increases during the summer season to reach 25, 26° before decreasing in autumn. It is worth noting, however, that the water temperature on the shore of Almanarre may differ by a few degrees from the temperatures in open water. After heavy rains or a mistral wind, the wind from the land brings cold water from the depths to the surface. This is something to consider if you want to put on a proper wetsuit or surf suit.
Is the beach accessible to families?
The beach of Almanarre is a real favourite for families. The sand is a great playground for children and deckchairs can be hired during the summer season. In addition, during the summer, the beach is supervised by lifeguards to ensure the safety of bathers. There is a car park nearby where you can park your car without difficulty and the entrance to the beach is free.
Why is the beach of Almanarre one of the most beautiful spots for board sports?
All surfers, windsurfers and kitesurfers worthy of the name must come at least once to the beach of Almanarre. The surf schools there offer lessons for beginners and equipment rental. On the route du Sel/Madrague side, the Hyères town hall has set aside a channel for kitesurfing. Winds between 15 and 20 knots make it accessible to all. Moreover, the on-shore wind will bring you back to the shore. This is why kite surfing departures are made by boat from the open sea.
Discover all the activities at the beach of Almanarre
Apart from sunbathing and lounging, the beach of Almanarre offers many activities around the marine world. Surfing sports are in the limelight, but it is also possible to observe the rich fauna that hides in the old salt pans between the salt road and the Capte. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the history of an ancient fortified city founded by the Greeks, the city of Olbia. On land, you can visit the ruins and foundations of the old town, while under the sea, an aquatic walk will allow you to access the buried splendours of this Greek city.