Visits and Culture

Museums and Art: Creativity Around Every Corner

The sun is still gentle. A narrow street catches your eye, a door opens... and suddenly you find yourself face to face with Calder, Warhol, or even yourself reflected in a modern work of art.

La Banque – Museum of Cultures and Landscapes

Once a bank, now a museum celebrating the history of Hyères, its artists, and hosting captivating temporary exhibitions.

During the warmer months, don't forget to wander through the garden and breathe in the fragrance of the orange blossoms – it's simply magical.

Current exhibition:
"Calder, Balance in Colour"
11 July – 1 November 2026

Villa Noailles – Contemporary Art Centre

An iconic modernist villa and a landmark of the artistic avant-garde of the 1930s. Today, it is a vibrant centre for creation and exhibitions dedicated to design, photography, architecture and visual arts. A truly photogenic place!

Summer opening hours (July – September 2026): 

Wednesday to Sunday, 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Guided tours are available at 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm on opening days.

Off-season: Guided tours only, Wednesday to Sunday from 3:00 pm.

Free admission – Guided tours: €6.

Fondation Carmignac

In the heart of Porquerolles Island, this villa blends seamlessly into the landscape and houses an outstanding contemporary art collection. A place for contemplation, emotion and complete disconnection, where underground galleries meet a beautiful sculpture garden.

Please note: access is by boat from La Tour Fondue, followed by a 10-minute walk.

Current exhibition:
"Sea, Pop and Sun"
25 April – 1 November 2026

Opening hours:

April to June: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (last admission 4:30 pm) 

July to August: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (last admission 5:30 pm) 

September to 1 November: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm 

Heritage: Walk Through the Remains of the Past

Leave the coastline behind and, within just a few minutes, step back in time. Here, the Mediterranean does more than sparkle—it tells a story.

Olbia Archaeological Site

Founded by the Greeks and later developed by the Romans, the archaeological site of Olbia is one of the oldest settlements on the French Mediterranean coast.

Explore the ancient ruins on land or discover them from another perspective by following the self-guided underwater archaeological trail, freely accessible for snorkellers.

Opening hours (1 April – 30 June 2026)

9:30 am – 12:30 pm: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 

2:00 pm – 5:30 pm: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday  

• Summer opening hours (1 July – 31 August 2026)

9:30 am – 12:30 pm: Monday to Friday 

2:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Monday to Sunday 

Hyères Castle

Overlooking the town, the medieval ruins of Hyères Castle tell the story of the powerful Lords of Fos.

From the hilltop, you'll enjoy breathtaking views over the Golden Islands and the historic centre of Hyères.

Access is via Parc Sainte-Claire or Parc Sainte-Anne.

Opening: Free access all year round, seven days a week. Occasional guided tours are also available.

Saint-Paul Collegiate Church

Combining Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the Collegiate Church of Saint-Paul is home to numerous ex-votos adorning its walls.

From the charming square outside, admire the panoramic views over the Giens Peninsula and the Golden Islands. Then take a few steps down to discover the old washhouse, a timeless, peaceful spot where you'll simply want to pause and enjoy the cool shade.

Opening hours (2026):Tuesday to Saturday

10:00 am – 1:00 pm 

1:30 pm – 5:00 pm 

Fort du Pradeau

Home to the Port-Cros National Park Interpretation Centre, Fort du Pradeau invites you to discover the exhibition "Making the Invisible Visible", dedicated to Mediterranean marine life. An inspiring experience within the peaceful surroundings of this historic coastal fort.

Opening hours (2026)

• 5 April – 30 June

Wednesday to Friday: 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm 

Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm 

• 1 July – 31 August

Tuesday to Sunday: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm 

• 1 September – 3 November

Wednesday to Friday: 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm 

Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm 

Guided tours: Every Wednesday and Sunday at 3:30 pm (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes).

Fort de la Bayarde

Not the easiest place to find—but we'll happily show you the way!

Discover this former military battery perched high above the coast and admire one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the area. It's one of our favourite hidden gems.

Local Flavours: A Taste of the South

Between two walks, you'll probably feel tempted to discover the region through its cuisine. Savour the authentic flavours of Provence, whether sweet or savoury—there's something for everyone.

Delicious Treats to Discover at Provençal Markets

• Bread and Traditional Specialities

The timeless fougasse, flavoured with olive oil, olives or onions, is the perfect companion for a picnic by the sea.

Socca (also known locally as Cade Toulonnaise) is a thin, crispy chickpea pancake, served hot and perfect for enjoying as you wander through the cobbled streets.

• Local Cheeses

Taste Brousse du Rove, a fresh, creamy cheese made from the milk of the traditional Rove goat. It's delicious drizzled with local honey.

Try it with the Hyères honey served at breakfast and available in our shop featuring locally produced specialities.

You'll also find a wonderful selection of goat's and sheep's cheeses, some matured with thyme or coated in ash.

• Traditional Provençal Dishes

Enjoy regional favourites such as:

• Ratatouille  
• Stuffed Provençal vegetables (Petits Farcis) 
• Aubergine caviar 

These dishes are often available from the market delicatessens and are a delicious way to enjoy the flavours of sun-ripened Mediterranean vegetables.

Don't miss the famous Pissaladière, the iconic onion tart topped with anchovies and black olives, often found in local bakeries and pizzerias.

Seafood Specialities

Grilled sardines, salt cod brandade and mussels cooked marinière style bring the flavours of the Mediterranean to your plate.

Be sure to try the rare red mussels farmed in Tamaris Bay, a true regional treasure thanks to their unique production.

Our Favourite Provençal Markets

• Hyères Market

Avenue Gambetta – Tuesday and Saturday mornings

A true local institution, where organic fruit and vegetables, cheeses, fresh fish, flowers, Provençal specialities and artisan crafts line the avenue in a lively and authentic atmosphere.

• La Capte Market

Every Friday morning (April to September)

This charming seaside market is the perfect place to discover fresh produce, the catch of the day, aromatic herbs and regional specialities in a relaxed coastal setting.

If You'd Like to Explore Further...

Sanary-sur-Mer (Wednesday mornings): voted France's Most Beautiful Market. 

Toulon – Cours Lafayette (every day except Monday): lively, colourful and full of Provençal character. 

Carqueiranne (Thursday mornings): a friendly market showcasing local producers. 

Our Tips and Recommendations

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the cobbled streets of old Hyères include several uphill sections. 
• Explore the town early in the morning or towards the end of the day, when temperatures are cooler and the light is simply magical. 
• Visit the Provence Méditerranée Tourist Office website to discover guided tours and themed itineraries. 
• Bus No. 39 stops just 50 metres from the hotel and takes you directly to Hyères' historic centre. 
• Take advantage of our bike rental service. The cycle path starts just outside the hotel and allows you to ride towards Toulon, passing charming villages such as Carqueiranne and Le Pradet, or towards the Giens Peninsula via the scenic greenway through La Capte. 
• Order your Zero-Waste Picnic the day before your excursion (available at reception). 
• Ask our team about guided tours and seasonal events. We keep our weekly activities board near reception updated with the latest local highlights. 
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