Location

The town of Hyères is located on the French Riviera where it occupies a privileged position.  While the rest of the coast has been densely developed for tourism, Hyères and the surrounding area has remained relatively untouched.  Miles of sandy beaches backed by Mediterranean pines run down to clean, transparent water, all with public access for swimming, many suitable for wind surfing.  Cascades of flowers–bougainvilleas, roses, hibiscus–flow over walls and down the sides of both ancient and modern buildings. A short bike or bus ride away are ferries that connect the mainland to the three “Golden Islands” where swimming, hiking, biking, snorkeling and scuba diving are possible.

Within an hour and a half by car, train or bus, are the well-known cities of Marseille, Cannes and Nice.  Vineyards and olive groves dot the surrounding hills, while further inland a spectacular series of wild canyons–the gorges of the Verdon River–offer breathtaking views and the possibility of explorations on foot.  Closer to Hyeres along the coast, the tiny, picturesque port of Cassis is a base for excursions by boat or on foot to three fjords–“calanques”–and their secluded beaches and cliffs.

The area has been the adopted home of such artists such as Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, Dufy, Sisley and Signac whose works can be seen in several museums along the coast and inland. Romanesque architecture is represented in small village churches as well as in spectacular abbeys all close enough to be visited in a day.

The city of Hyeres, whose beginnings date from the 9th century has several sections: the old town made up of narrow, winding streets, medieval houses, small stores and lively street life, and the more modern area where cafes, businesses, movie theaters, bookstores,  and restaurants abound.  An enormous weekly open market unites the entire city, and guarantees a fascinating array of local products from olives and cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables to wood products, herbs, pottery and clothing.