The island of Embiez, or île des Embiez in French, is one of those islands you don’t want to leave. After visiting the French island Porquerolles last year, I was determined to find an equally blissful experience this year. I love the beaches on the Côte d’Azur, don’t get me wrong, but I was looking for more natural surroundings and more intimate, smaller coves. The French call them criques (pronounce as creeks). Thanks to a local wine farmer I visited the day before, I was directed to île des Embiez.
Ile des Embiez is located in Six-Four-Les-Plages. It is only a 10-minute ferry trip from the colourful fisherman town Le Brusc. The island is traffic-free and best explored on foot or by bike. Paul Ricard, the millionaire who created the French anise liquor ‘Pastis’ bought and developed the island in 1966. Today, it is home to a hotel, a marine museum, multiple vineyards, a small camping ground and a handful of small restaurants. But above anything else, it is a heavenly place to swim, snorkel, cycle or hike.
Intimate coves, pristine beaches, crystal clear water, gorgeous nature trails with flora and fauna, vineyards and rocky coastlines will leave you speechless. There are about 12 different coves and small beaches on ile des Embiez, each different and unique. Some are easy accessible while others require some effort to reach via a steep and rocky path. It is highly likely that you will have the more adventurous cove to yourself or only have to share with a few people. Once you have settled at one of the beaches, expect an ice cream and refreshments boat to stop by to keep everyone hydrated and cool. However be prepared to pack enough water and a picnic basket.
How to get there
There’s a ferry departing from Le Brusc marina. The boat ride takes 10 minutes. Return tickets are € 15 for adults and € 9 for children 3-12 yrs. If going for a day trip you need to leave your car in Le Brusc where finding a parking spot is a hassle, so take into account extra time to find a spot. Hotel guests are allowed to embark the ferry in their car.
More information and ferry schedule: www.lesilespaulricard.com
