The Calanques
A national park of dazzling white limestone cliffs and hidden turquoise coves between Marseille and Cassis - reached on foot or by boat.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
The Calanques are a national park of steep white limestone cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean between Marseille and Cassis, cut with narrow fjord-like inlets that shelter hidden coves of dazzling turquoise water. Reached on foot along rugged clifftop trails or by boat from the towns, they are a wild, beautiful stretch of the southern coast.
What you actually see
- Calanque d'En-Vau - the most beautiful cove, with white cliffs and turquoise water.
- The clifftop trails - the rugged hikes between Marseille and Cassis.
- Boat trips - the excursions along the coves from Cassis and Marseille.
- The white cliffs - the limestone walls plunging into the sea.
When to go
Late spring and early autumn for mild hiking weather and swimming; summer is very hot and, in high fire-risk periods, the trails can be closed. Boats run in the warm months.
Honest expectations
Reaching the best coves on foot is a real hike over rough, steep terrain in the heat, so bring water and good shoes. In summer, high fire risk closes the trails on some days, so check ahead. Boat trips are the easier alternative but do not land in most coves.
Nearby
Cassis and Marseille are at each end; the Provence coast and wine country spread around.
What to pack for The Calanques
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
