Almanarre Beach, Hyères: Windsurfing on the Riviera

Almanarre doesn't do quaint, it does epic. Four kilometres of sand along the western tombolo of the Giens peninsula, wide open to the sky and the wind, with the kind of light that makes the Mediterranean look freshly painted. When the mistral blows, the water fills with sails and kites, and Almanarre becomes one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing beaches in the Med.

What to expect

A long, flat, shallow beach that's as good for a calm-day swim as for the watersports it's famous for. Schools and rental shops line the beach road, and parts of it are wheelchair-accessible.

Practical information

• Getting there: about 25 minutes from the villa, one of the closest beaches. Almanarre runs along the Route du Sel (D97) between Hyères and the Giens peninsula.

• Parking: several free and paid areas along the road. Wheelchair-accessible sections available.

• Facilities: showers and restrooms at several access points; kitesurf and windsurf schools and rentals along the beach road.

• Best time: windy days for the watersports spectacle; calm mornings for an easy swim.

Mauricette's Tip

Watch the kitesurfers even if you never get in the water, then pair the beach with a walk on the Giens peninsula or a boat to Grand Ribaud.

The Med's windsurfing playground, 25 minutes from the villa. See the house and book direct.

Explore nearby The Giens peninsula · Grand Ribaud · Le Lavandou