Hyères.

Hyères sits on the Mediterranean coast of Provence, where palm-lined avenues and a medieval old town climb toward the ruins of a hilltop castle. Historically, aristocrats and artists wintered here, drawn by a climate mild enough for gardens such as Parc Olbius-Riquier, planted with palms and subtropical species that still shade its paths today.

Hyères is also the mainland point for the Golden Islands, Porquerolles and Port-Cros, protected islands of pine forest and clear water lying just off the coast. Inland, the vineyards of Côtes de Provence cover the surrounding hills, producing the pale rosé the region is known for. Markets in the old town sell this wine alongside olives, honey and other Provençal produce, a reminder of the mix of coast, garden and vine that shapes the town.