Nestled at the northwestern tip of Bagaud Island, near Port-Cros, the Montrémian Point is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful dives on the Var coast. Nicknamed the « ski slope » due to its unique underwater dune, it offers a habitat rich in biodiversity, blending rocks, sand, and seagrass.
Practical Information
GPS Point:
43°O’65’’ North
6°21’49’’ East
Two buoys facilitate secure anchoring in an area where diving was once prohibited. The dive typically begins to the east of the point, before descending north along a rocky spur, keeping the rock to the left. For about forty meters, divers can admire a healthy seagrass meadow, populated by common bream (Diplodus sargus), saddled bichon (Oblada melanura), salema porgy (Sarpa salpa), and damselfish (Chromis chromis). The descent continues between the main ridge and a second rocky ridge, until reaching the sand at 31 meters.
Photo: Dominique Barray
Continuing north, about fifty meters from the point, it is possible to reach the Montrémian rock, adorned with red gorgonians (Paramuricea clavata), although some colonies suffered from the marine heatwave of 2022. This block measures just over 4 meters high with a circumference of about twenty meters, allowing for an easy tour.
To conclude the dive, divers can either turn back or cross the « ski slope » to reach beautiful rocks also surrounded by seagrass.
Rich and Diverse Fauna
At Montrémian, marine life is omnipresent. In addition to the species mentioned, the rocks shelter groupers of all sizes, peacock wrasses, morays hidden in their dens, and scorpionfish waiting for their prey. This diversity is enhanced by exuberant attached fauna, with beautiful carpets of yellow encrusting anemones (Parazoanthus axinellae), as well as various sponges and bryozoans that color the walls.
Photo: Dominique Barray.
Attentive divers may witness hunting scenes and, in season, live spawning, as well as tiny juveniles starting their underwater life in this exceptional site. It is not uncommon to encounter eagle rays (Myliobatis aquila) in formation, especially in autumn, or to find stingrays (Dasyatis pastinaca) resting quietly in the seagrass, not to mention the sunfish (Mola mola) foraging.
In spring, the rocks become a refuge for many nudibranchs, such as purple flabellinas (Flabellina affinis), hervias (Cratena peregrina), dalmatian doris (Peltodoris atromaculata), and heavenly doris (Hypselodoris orsinii), often observed in full breeding frenzy. To fully enjoy this diversity, it is advisable to explore the rocky walls with a flashlight.
Photo: Dominique Barray
A Unique Hydraulic Dune
The Montrémian Point, often simply referred to by its name, has a rare feature: an underwater dune. Unlike terrestrial dunes formed by wind, this one is shaped by ocean currents. Its sandy formation, sloping at 45°, defies the laws of gravity thanks to upward bottom currents that continuously transport sand upward. This structure, backed by the rocky spur, maintains its shape and height, providing a habitat rich in fauna, including flatfish camouflaged in the sand.
This diversity of habitats, grouped in a small area, makes Montrémian a true biodiversity hotspot, a captivating dive site that rivals the most beautiful tropical destinations.
Warning! The current can be strong, both at the surface and at depth, and may carry you westward, towards Porquerolles. The use of a parachute and a surface safety device is highly recommended.
Photo: Nicolas Barraqué
Practical
All clubs in the region offer trips to Montrémian. If you are diving independently, a declaration to the Port-Cros National Park is essential. The access permit is free, valid for the calendar year, and must be presented in case of inspection. To obtain it, register online on the CaPeL platform (online dive log): CaPeL.
Head Above Water
The islet of Bagaud is a pilot site for studying global change. Protected from direct anthropogenic impacts, it allows researchers to analyze indirect human effects. Located in the heart of the Port-Cros National Park, the first protected area both on land and underwater since 1963, each island deserves a visit. It is advisable to avoid the months of July and August, which are peak tourist times, and to favor the off-season, when the water is still warm and the atmosphere calmer, to explore the hiking trails of Porquerolles and Port-Cros on foot or by bike.
This article, originally written by Isabelle Croizeau for our print edition, has been adapted for the web.
Opening photo: Hervé Colombini.