Departure for the big sister of the island of Bendor, the island of Embiez. Paul Ricard's ambition was to make this island a place for the preservation of nature.
The preparation
Departure from Bandol, by car, direction Le Brusc ; this small piece of land forming part of the commune of Six-Fous-les-plages. Arriving there, a car park and numerous parking spaces await us in the streets around the port. We go to the pier ready to discover this island that we have heard so much about...
Let's go for 12 minutes crossing. The opportunity to admire this beautiful Var coast. After only a few minutes on the boat, we became Robinson, freshly landed on an island, with the day to enjoy it.
As soon as we arrive on the platform, we head to the left, to renting bikes. And yes, because this island is big enough to spend the day cycling around.
Good to know: in summer, a small tourist train is also available and will take you around the island effortlessly!
them and the environment
Here we go on the small dirt roads, under the surrounding canopy, on the side of the Mediterranean. After just 5 minutes, we stop to admire the Brusc peninsula and the crystal clear lagoon that separates us. This little piece of sea is protected.
The island is a member of the European network Natura 2000, which brings together more than 1700 French sites recognized for the rarity and fragility of their natural environments. This was the spirit that Paul Ricard wanted to give to this place: a haven of peace and observation of the local flora and fauna.
Therefore, the island of Embiez alone has 90% of Mediterranean plant species known and is a real refuge for birds, according to the League for the Protection of Birds. This has also earned it to be "eco-labeled" Blue Flag.
Let's explore the surroundings
We continue our journey through the vines with the sea in the background, what a beautiful landscape ! We see a little higher up a fort, where we can have a 360 ° view on what surrounds us. A little further ahead await us to beautiful coves cut off from the world, mostly accessible by small, slightly landscaped cliffs. We must therefore be careful.
But it's worth it. We are on the other side of the island, with the horizon... as the only horizon and far from the crowds. We take the opportunity to take a well-deserved bath and explore the seabed. Because if there is an area where you have to do snorkelling, it is here!
After this exotic break and a picnic in an idyllic setting, we set off on an adventure again!
We continue on our way to the village and shops on the island. A snack break is essential! The choice is quickly made: it will be the only small and charming island bakery ! We end up returning our bikes before getting back on the boat with a disconnected mind, filled with beautiful images… already wanting to come back!
In short
This island is a gem! Its green nature, its coves, its wild coves, its magnificent seabed, all preserved from concrete, cars... It's a little paradise on earth. To visit alone, as a couple or as a family. And even more than a day! Because the island is full of restaurants and hotels that will allow you to prolong the pleasure.
How to go to the island of embiez
- Departure from the pier of Six-Fours le Brusc;
- Crossing of about 12 minutes;
- Island accessible all year round;
- Reservation is not necessary, the ticket can be purchased directly at the pier.
Do you want to go there by bus? From Bandol, take the 885 to Bonnegrâce beach then change bus for line 72 to the Le Mail stop (port of Brusc).
PS: in summer, crossings are also possible from the port of Sanary-sur-mer. The bus remains 885, but the advantage is that you can stop next to the city's port!
For more information on prices and crossing times, visit the website www.lesilespaulricard.com.
