Bike rental companies are located right outside the port, with a wide range of bikes to choose from: mountain bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes, tandems and children's trailers. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a family rider or just looking for a quiet ride, cycling will open the doors to some of the island's most beautiful spots. In this article, we take you on a tour of 5 must-see beaches accessible by bike, with distances, atmospheres and practical tips.
🚲 Why visit Porquerolles' beaches by bike?
With over 60 km of marked trails, Porquerolles is ideal for getting around by bike. The most beautiful beaches are often far from the village, but can be reached in 10 to 45 minutes by bike. This allows you:
- to avoid the crowded beaches close to the port
- to explore wilder coves
- to vary the scenery between forest, vineyards, cliffs and turquoise coast
Cycling here is more than a means of transport: it's a key to accessing the authenticity of the island.
🏖️ 1. Plage Notre-Dame - Europe's most beautiful beach
- Distance from the port: 3.5 km
- Cycling time: 25 minutes
- Atmosphere: wild, peaceful, turquoise water
- Perfect for: lovers of postcards and silence
Elected Europe's most beautiful beach in 2015, Notre-Dame is a jewel lined with pine and oak trees. Its clear, shallow waters open onto a peaceful bay. Access is a little long, but the effort is rewarded by an unspoilt landscape and a beach that's still relatively quiet, even in summer.
🏖️ 2. Plage d'Argent - the most accessible
- Distance from the port: 1.5 km
- Cycling time: 10 minutes
- Atmosphere: family-friendly, well-equipped, easy to get to
- Perfect for: a quick swim or a family picnic
It's the island's most popular beach, and it's easy to see why: white sand, crystal-clear waters, shallow waters and a shady pine grove. Easily accessible from the village, it's ideal if you're short on time or have children.
🏖️ 3. Plage noire du Langoustier - the most mysterious
- Distance from the port: 4.5 km
- Cycling time: 35-40 minutes
- Atmosphere: intimate, unusual, mineral
- Perfect for: the curious, photographers, lovers of calm
Hidden behind the Fort du Langoustier, this beach surprises with its black volcanic sand (actually very dark brown). Little visited, it offers a striking visual contrast with the island's other beaches. Access is via sometimes rocky forest paths, but the effort is well worth it.
🏖️ 4. Plage du Langoustier (north) - the gentle end of the piste
- Distance from the port: 4.5 km
- Cycling time: 30-40 minutes
- Atmosphere: restful, sheltered, less crowded
- Perfect for: cut off from the world and enjoy the silence
On the western tip of the island, this beach of golden sand is nestled in a well-sheltered bay. The setting is soothing, and the water is often warmer and calmer. It's ideal for a long reading break or a discreet swim.
🏖️ 5. Calanque du Brégançonnet - the wildest
- Distance from the port: 2.7 km
- Cycling time: 20-25 minutes + 5 min on foot
- Atmosphere: wild, secluded, dream cove
- Perfect for: adventurers and snorkeling enthusiasts
Accessible via the Langoustier trail, this cove is one of the most beautiful in Porquerolles. You have to walk down a steep path to reach it, but you'll discover water of impressive clarity, ideal for snorkeling.
📌 Practical tips
- Prefer mountain bikes or electric bikes: some paths are sandy or stony.
- Leave early: some beaches fill up quickly in high season.
- Bring water, hat and sun cream: there is little shade on isolated beaches.
- Respect nature: no fires, no garbage, no sampling.
