Île du Levant: A Nudist Paradise and Mediterranean Gem

June 16, 2026

The Île du Levant is a destination like no other in the Mediterranean. Located in the Var region, just off the coast of Hyères, it is world-renowned for its unique way of life. Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a regular regular, the island leaves a lasting impression with its wild beauty and gentle pace of life.

How should you prepare for your trip to Le Levant? What makes Héliopolis so special, and which viewpoints are absolute must-sees? Here is everything you need to know to discover this jewel of the Îles d'Or.

The Domaine d'Héliopolis: The Birthplace of Nudism in France

Founded in the 1930s by the Durville brothers, the Domaine d'Héliopolis covers most of the island. It stands as one of Europe's most iconic naturist destinations, alongside the likes of La Jenny or La Chiappa.

Here, the philosophy centers on complete and respectful integration into nature. The village is entirely car-free and preserves total darkness at night to reveal the breathtaking beauty of the starry sky. Nudism is freely practiced throughout the village, along the paths of the scrubland (maquis), as well as on the famous sandy beach of Les Grottes and the island's rocky coves.

Hiking the Heights: The Best Viewpoint on Le Levant

While the coastline of Le Levant is stunning, the inland hills also hold wonderful surprises for hikers and scenery lovers. The island is crisscrossed by steep trails that climb through a dense scrubland fragrant with strawberry trees (arbousiers).

Reaching the ridge and the heights of Le Levant rewards you with a spectacular panorama suspended between sky and sea. From up there, the view opens onto an unobstructed perspective of the wild silhouette of Port-Cros island and its National Park. It is the ultimate viewpoint to contemplate the vastness of the Mediterranean.

💡 Bring the panorama home: This unique view from the ridge inspired our latest minimalist illustration. Capture all the magic and colors of this landscape by exploring our Île du Levant poster, hand-drawn for the Nus au Soleil collection.

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Practical Advice for Your Stay on the Île du Levant

To ensure your getaway goes as smoothly as possible, here is some essential information to keep in mind:

Access by Boat: Regular ferry connections to the port of Héliopolis run mainly from Le Lavandou or Hyères.
Accommodation & Shops: Even though the island is preserved, the village of Héliopolis offers hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and local shops. During peak season, booking your stay well in advance is essential. I stayed at La Roche aux Mouettes, which I recommend 100%!
Respect the Environment: The island is a fragile ecosystem. Please respect the local flora, fauna, and the tranquility of the surroundings during your walks.

💡 My Insider Tips for Your Stay on Le Levant

To perfect your preparation, here are a few insider tips that will make all the difference once you arrive:

The Travel Discount for FFN Members: If you are a member of the French Naturist Federation (FFN), you can enjoy a 10% discount on your ferry crossings with the Vedettes des Îles d'Or company. Just remember to show your valid FFN membership card when boarding!
Travel Light: The island is explored entirely on foot, and the paths of Héliopolis are quite steep. Leave your large, hard-shell rolling suitcases at home and opt for a comfortable backpack instead. Besides, you won't need many clothes for your summer wardrobe anyway!
Bring Cash: Although most shops and restaurants in Héliopolis accept credit cards, there are no ATMs on the island. Make sure to withdraw some cash before boarding the boat for your small daily purchases.