I scarcely noticed a feature in The Financial Times earlier this year encouraging readers to visit the latest “hot” destination, the small island of Porquerolles. Yet only a few months later there I was after a short ferry ride from Hyeres. For most visitors, Porquerolle’s beaches are the top attraction. After disembarking, they head to the bike rental places along from the ferry terminal and on to one of the many beautiful stretches of sand.

My plan was different. I was there to see Villa Carmignac, a gallery dedicated to contemporary art and housed in a striking building just a short walk from the small downtown area. It’s the brainchild of Edouard Carmignac and was set up in 2000 to house a collection of some 300 works of art. Figures like Lichtenstein, Richter, and Warhol feature, but also a large number of less well known artists. It’s well worth a visit, not least to see the beautiful building itself with its cool, white space and aquatic ceiling.

Whether you’re interested in swimming, sunbathing, or immersing yourself in modern art, Porquerolles makes for a wonderful day trip, especially in September when the summer crowds have left.