Porquerolles is the Mediterranean’s best kept secret just waiting to be explored.

Possessing everything that makes more famous Spanish and Greek islands so popular but without the overcrowded beaches, the French island is perfect for travellers looking for one of Europe’s most stunning beach holidays.

The largest of four islands that make up Hyères Iles d’Or, the seven kilometre long strip of land has turquoise beaches and golden sand surrounded by stunning terrain.

With cars not allowed on the island with the exception of a small number of service cars, the island is best explored by bike, and there are plenty of options to rent for your visit, although the hilly terrain might make an electric version a better option for those not looking for anything too arduous.

As would be expected of any fabulous Mediterranean location worth its salt, the vineyards dotted around the three kilometre wide island allows travellers an authentic and extremely enjoyable wine tasting experience matched only by the scenic views on offer.

The rugged, hilly terrain makes the island perfect for hiking and with 51 km of marked trails there is route for everybody, with gentler options available for those looking for a less challenging experience.

The quiet town has escaped many of the pitfalls fallen into by more popular tourist destinations. It is rustic and quaint, with property owned by locals rather than out of town landlords hoping to make a fortune on Airbnb.

On a morning, the children can be seen boarding ferries, taking them across the water to school on the mainland, serving only reemphasise just how to tiny the island really is.

For those bringing children of their own to the island, the beach plague Notre Dame is an ideal spot with calm waters and pine trees offering some natural protection from the sun.

For explorers looking for a little bit more action, plague de la Courtade offers a range of water sports from paddleboarding to kayaking, providing an opportunity to get out and explore the blue waters of the med.

Ferries leave the Cote d’Azur every 30 minutes with the last ferry departing the island at 6.30pm, making Porquerolles easily accessible for those wanting to visit from for a day trip or those seeking an extended stay.

One tourist, who visited Plage d’Argent (Silver Beach), wrote on TripAdvisor: ” Such a fantastic beach, although slightly too busy in August. If only school terms didn’t exist. My daughter and I spent nearly three hours in the sea when there – so go especially if swimming is what you’re into.

“Take mask and goggles. Better to get the ferry from Tour du Fondue which only takes 15 minutes and there’s plenty of car parking there, plus flexibility on when to return, rather than one of the longer and more expensive once a day boat trips from nearby towns. It’s about a 20 minute walk from the main village through some stunning countryside.”

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