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The French Riviera is full of surprises. From its soothing, Mediterranean breezes to its coastline dotted with long stretches of coves and beaches to its fascinating historical legacy, probably none is more iconic than its charming seaside villages. And the 3,000 year-old hamlet of Hyères embodies the spirit and joie de vivre of the Côte d'Azur.

This five-hour excursion combines a guided and self-guided tour so you can really experience Hyères at your own pace. Hyères has quite a few hills so wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a camera along to record each memorable and colorful moment of your visit. Your adventure begins as you board your air-conditioned motorcoach. After leaving Toulon, you'll travel along a scenic coastal route with the azure Mediterranean right outside your window. Off the coast at a short distance, you'll see the picturesque Hyères Islands also named Iles d'Or( Golden islands ) consisting of Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Le Levant. They are protected natural areas with rich flora and fauna.

As you approach Hyères, you'll be struck by the thousands of palm trees in and around the town. Seeds were brought here in the 19th century and ever since then palm trees have grown profusely. Known as the palm capital of the world, about 100,000 palm trees are exported each year, giving the town the nickname Hyères Les Palmiers. When you arrive, you'll disembark and follow your guide through the medieval city filled with shops and cafes . Hyères was one of the first health resorts on the Côte d'Azur and looking out at the spectacular beaches explains why luminaries such as Queen Victoria, Robert Louis Stevenson and D.H. Lawrence were among the first visitors.

Continuing on, you'll meander along a labyrinth of narrow streets, past the sienna-colored houses and storefronts and proceed uphill to the old part of town where your guide will point out a number of monuments dating back to the Middle Ages. In the main square sits the Chapel of St. Blaise. Commonly referred to as the Tour des Templiers, it was built in the 12th century by the Templars and used as a commandery. The Saint-Louis church is an excellent example of 13th-century Romanesque and primitive Gothic style with its central stained glass window, arched doorways, and plain exterior.

Climbing further uphill is Le Parc Sainte Claire, an outstanding garden with fantastic views of the peninsula, the bay and the islands. Further on you'll see Le Castel Sainte Clair, a 19th-century home that once belonged to novelist Edith Wharton. Finally, at the top of Hyères you'll see the Medieval Castle of Hyeres. Overlooking the town since the 13th century, its statuesque remnants remain perched on the hill, nestled in the trees. At the conclusion of your guided tour, you're free to explore Hyères on your own.

Then, with the incredible imagery, history and taste sensations from this wonderful journey in mind, you'll enjoy an idyllic drive back to ship.