So far away, so close
Floating off the Var coast (Provence, France), L’île des Embiez is a nearby paradise and this distant elsewhere. The island is representative of what embodies slow tourism and the return to nature. Formerly a refuge for navigators and pirates, it can be explored by bike or on foot (vehicle traffic being limited). It is accessible by boat from Le Brusc (Six-Fours-Les- Plages) or the port of Sanary-sur-Mer.
It is an exceptional natural site which is home to 90% of known Mediterranean plant species. The first thing you’ll see when arriving by boat is a wild and steep coast, crystal clear waters and a small marina. The island of Embiez is home to nearly 150 plant species, including some preserved wild species. It is also a real refuge for birds. Its unique panorama has earned it membership of the European network “Natura 2000”, which brings together more than 1700 French terrestrial and marine sites recognized for the rarity and fragility of their natural environment.
A paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, the island of Embiez can be discovered for a day, a long weekend or for a relaxing holiday. With a concern to preserve an art of seaside life without artifice and without equipped beaches. You’ll find multiple wild creeks, including the wildest, the Rix beach, only accessible by sea. The island of Embiez is favouring contemplative and quality tourism, and offering hedonists a global experience. You’ll find large spaces and a sustainable approach, daily outdoor life and wellness activities, charming accommodation and a locavore cuisine... Many well-being and sports activities and entertainment are organized throughout the season and vary each year. They are totally free and reserved for customers staying as well as yachtsmen.
The port is also respectful of the environment. It is certified "Clean port, active in biodiversity". Paul Ricard, who bought and exploited the island in 1958, also created an oceanographic institute there in 1966, which is still an active research centre today, where a scientific team works in line with this visionary's logic.
The island has managed to preserve all its charm and authenticity thanks to a rational development programme which offers a rare balance on the French coast: the scenery of a lush and wild island, the authenticity of a real Provencal village and the comfort required by an idyllic seaside resort accessible to all.
Where to stay
Hotel Helios and SPA****
Four stars relaxed and confidential, this haven of 61 rooms and suites offers attentive and personalised service. The HelioSpa, with its modern architecture and heated indoor swimming pool, plays a large part in this thanks to the "Cinq Monde" expertise for optimal treatments.
Helios Apartments
Vacationers who like to keep their independence while having the feeling of being "at home", will opt for studios, apartments or villas accommodating from 2 to 8 people.
Les Douanes
Exclusive and charming, the eight suites share one of the oldest buildings on the island, built in the 18th century and very close to the Salins beach. Contemporary interiors, private terrace built in local stone... This terrace of pink tiles, with its ochre walls and red shutters, overlooks the sea. It has nothing to envy to the charm of the most beautiful Provencal farmhouses.
Le Mas des Romarins
It is an authentic Provencal residence with six bedrooms and all the charm of a large family home: tiled floor, cosy living room and large kitchen opening onto the terrace. Around this majestic stone building and the arbor under which breakfast is served, there are gardens and a traditional stone pond. An intimate and charming address, to be privatized on request.
Where to eat
The island offers a wide range of restoration points. New for summer 2023 is the rebirth of the Garlaban, which offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience that will delight the taste buds of the most demanding holidaymakers and visitors. An enchanting place with a jazzy musical atmosphere, a choice of the best tapas, a careful selection of wines, a creative decoration and a breath-taking view of the port of Saint-Pierre des Embiez. Live evenings are also organized every week.
The Sàrti is a must on the island. With a Mediterranean specialty menu. Ideally located on the pier. The carefully fresh produce selected and prepared will only sublimate the exceptional Aioli sauce of which the Sàrti has the secret…
A little further away, located on the main square, emblematic place of summer entertainment, the "BBQ" restaurant offers a simple and friendly kitchen with fresh and seasonal products served on its generous terrace.
Nearby is Bar des Amis, the point of rendezvous for relaxing time with friends or family around a refreshing cocktail.
A few steps from the pier, Pain & Saveurs offers the typical products (bread, pastries, sandwiches, salads…) but, also a large selection of home made starters and dishes to take away or consume on the spot on its beautiful terrace shaded by parasols .
The Truck is located north of the island, on one of the most beautiful spots in Les Embiez, where you will enjoy a vegetarian, chicken or traditional burger, on the terrace facing the Med.
Don't forget the tasty break for the children and adults with Cabana Sucre and its artisanal fresh milk ice cream and fruit sorbets. To be savoured on the heights from the Salins beach or to take away.
Overlooking the harbour Saint-Pierre des Embiez. The restaurant Les Jardins d’Helios transports you on a taste journey thanks to a Mediterranean flavours menu sublimated by Italian influences.
What to drink
The Domaine de l'île des Embiez is the wine of the Ricard family, produced entirely on the island and an integral part of its heritage. The wine of the Domaine de l'île des Embiez comes from a winemaking tradition of more than 400 years, now labelled “Agriculture Organique” since 2021. The wine estate has a unique and atypical terroir of “Côtes de Provence”, one of the most offset from the name.
The Domaine de l'île des Embiez is anchored in the DNA of the island. The planting of the first vines dates back to 1580. After its acquisition in 1958, Paul Ricard was keen to continue the wine-growing history of this island paradise. A desire perpetuated by his descendants who insist that each bottle must be entirely produced on site: planting and maintenance of the vines, harvesting by hand, pressing and fermentation in the estate's cellar, aging and bottling.
Photos courtesy of Les îles Paul Ricard.