Embiez Island, the Paul Ricard spirit
The Embiez archipelago is a concentrate of the Mediterranean located less than a kilometre from the mainland. Closely linked to the history of Paul Ricard, the famous inventor of the aniseed-flavoured drink of the same name, this little corner of paradise is absolutely worth a visit.
This group of five islands has been frequented since ancient times and was exploited in the Middle Ages for the production of salt by the resident monks. The "Mousquemers", led by Commandant Cousteau, shot the first French underwater film there during the Second World War: "Par dix-huit mètres de fond". But how can we retrace the history of Les Embiez without mentioning Paul Ricard, the Marseilles entrepreneur who created "Ricard" pastis, now known throughout the world. After developing the recipe for this drink with his brother in his small flat in Marseille, he became successful thanks to his marketing genius and innovative promotional campaigns, even transporting Ricard to Paris on camels. But behind the businessman lies a generous and humanistic character. In the 1950s, he acquired the islands of Bendor and Les Embiez, which became the Paul Ricard Islands. His objective: to preserve the fauna and flora and to offer holiday resorts unlike any other, "for the happiness of mankind". He planted many trees, developed them with buildings that were integrated into the environment, dug a port, banned cars... He created the Paul Ricard Oceanographic Institute in response to the first industrial pollution in the Mediterranean, in partnership with Alain Bombard. This marine biology research centre also set itself the task of sharing knowledge and raising public awareness of environmental issues.
Today, the Embiez archipelago, easily accessible all year round, is a must-see in the region. After a five-minute boat ride from Six-Fours-les-Plages, the change of scenery is immediate and the atmosphere, typical of Mediterranean islands, is unequalled. The sea stretches as far as the eye can see from this preserved green setting which is home to 90% of the Mediterranean plant species. A marvellous escapade awaits you: after a short stroll along the port, you can visit the aquarium, before discovering the whole of the island, on foot, by bike or with the little train. On the programme: calm, green nature, wild creeks and coves, crystal clear water and limpid underwater depths. Note that the island is home to a vineyard which produces famous Côtes de Provence wines with the organic label.
