The Giens Peninsula, part of the city of Hyères in the Var region, is a little paradise for nature lovers and hikers. With coastal trails, breathtaking panoramas, wild coves, and rich biodiversity, it’s a dream destination for outdoor walking. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual stroller, let yourself be charmed by the natural beauty of the peninsula.
The Coastal Path
The Coastal Path (Sentier du Littoral) circles the entire Giens Peninsula. About 18 km long, it can be completed in one day… or divided into two easier hikes starting from strategic points.
🔁 West Loop – From La Madrague to Port du NielDistance: about 7 to 8 kmDuration: 2.5 to 3 hoursDifficulty: moderateRecommended start: Port du Niel or La Madrague
This section is the wildest: cliffs, hidden coves, wind-sculpted pines, and spectacular sea views. Perfect for lovers of raw nature.👉 Ideal for an afternoon walk ending with a sunset over the water.
This section is the wildest: cliffs, hidden coves, wind-sculpted pines, and spectacular sea views. Perfect for lovers of raw nature.👉 Ideal for an afternoon walk ending with a sunset over the water.
🔁 East Loop – From Tour Fondue to Plage de la BadineDistance: about 8 to 9 kmDuration: 3 hoursDifficulty: moderateRecommended start: Tour Fondue
This section crosses more open areas, closer to the beaches. You can see the Golden Islands, Plage de la Palud, and enjoy spectacular views of Porquerolles.👉 Best in the morning to enjoy the light on the cliffs and take swims along the way.
This section crosses more open areas, closer to the beaches. You can see the Golden Islands, Plage de la Palud, and enjoy spectacular views of Porquerolles.👉 Best in the morning to enjoy the light on the cliffs and take swims along the way.
👟 Please note:
It is possible to do a partial loop by returning via the interior paths (which are quicker).
Port du Niel is an excellent central starting point if you want to explore east or west.
In summer, bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest hours.
It is possible to do a partial loop by returning via the interior paths (which are quicker).
Port du Niel is an excellent central starting point if you want to explore east or west.
In summer, bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest hours.
🚶♂️ Balade douce
From La Capte: Between Nature, Heritage, and Culture
If you’re looking for an easy and pleasant walk, the new greenway starting from La Capte is ideal. It runs alongside the former salt marshes, winding through Mediterranean vegetation and water basins, offering a calm and protected setting accessible by foot or bike.
🌿 The routeFrom the center of La Capte, take the newly developed greenway toward the Salins des Pesquiers neighborhood. This flat, shaded section lets you explore a protected natural area, home to many bird species — including the famous flamingos 🦩.
👉 Continue to the Tympan des Salins, an old water regulation post, now restored, marking the entrance to the sensitive natural area. Informational panels provide insights into the role of water, wildlife, and the region’s salt history.
🖼️ A cultural detour: Les Salons de La CapteOn your way back to the village, don’t miss a stop at Les Salons de La Capte, a small local exhibition space by the roadside. It regularly hosts photo exhibits, works by local artists, and presentations of the peninsula’s heritage.
If you’re looking for an easy and pleasant walk, the new greenway starting from La Capte is ideal. It runs alongside the former salt marshes, winding through Mediterranean vegetation and water basins, offering a calm and protected setting accessible by foot or bike.
🌿 The routeFrom the center of La Capte, take the newly developed greenway toward the Salins des Pesquiers neighborhood. This flat, shaded section lets you explore a protected natural area, home to many bird species — including the famous flamingos 🦩.
👉 Continue to the Tympan des Salins, an old water regulation post, now restored, marking the entrance to the sensitive natural area. Informational panels provide insights into the role of water, wildlife, and the region’s salt history.
🖼️ A cultural detour: Les Salons de La CapteOn your way back to the village, don’t miss a stop at Les Salons de La Capte, a small local exhibition space by the roadside. It regularly hosts photo exhibits, works by local artists, and presentations of the peninsula’s heritage.
📍 Autour de Giens
🔹 The Golden Islands offer spectacular landscapes, with turquoise coves, golden cliffs, and fragrant coastal trails. A true paradise for hiking enthusiasts:Discover
🔹 The Salt Route (closed to cars in winter)Ideal for peaceful walks or cycling, where you can admire flamingos in the salt marshes and explore the coastal birdlife.
🔹 The Calanques of Cassis:Less than an hour’s drive away, you can visit the stunning Calanques of Cassis. There are two ways to discover the site: by boat excursion or hiking.
🔹 The Salt Route (closed to cars in winter)Ideal for peaceful walks or cycling, where you can admire flamingos in the salt marshes and explore the coastal birdlife.
🔹 The Calanques of Cassis:Less than an hour’s drive away, you can visit the stunning Calanques of Cassis. There are two ways to discover the site: by boat excursion or hiking.
🌿 Flora & Fauna: A Protected Area
The peninsula is home to exceptional biodiversity:
Mediterranean plants: Aleppo pines, rockroses, immortelles.
Seabirds: cormorants, shearwaters, gulls.
Protected species in Natura 2000 zones.
🚫 Please respect nature: stay on marked trails, do not pick plants, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
The peninsula is home to exceptional biodiversity:
Mediterranean plants: Aleppo pines, rockroses, immortelles.
Seabirds: cormorants, shearwaters, gulls.
Protected species in Natura 2000 zones.
🚫 Please respect nature: stay on marked trails, do not pick plants, and avoid disturbing wildlife.