Découvrez les calanques, un paysage spectaculaire où falaises de calcaire immaculées plongent dans des eaux turquoise, formant l’un des sites naturels les plus emblématiques du sud de la France. S’étendant sur une vingtaine de kilomètres entre Marseille et Cassis, ce joyau de la Méditerranée, classé Parc national des Calanques, offre un décor sauvage et préservé, idéal pour la randonnée, l’escalade et les activités nautiques.
Parmi les plus célèbres, la calanque d’En-Vau séduit par ses hautes falaises et son eau cristalline, parfaite pour le kayak et la plongée. La calanque de Sugiton, plus accessible, dévoile des panoramas époustouflants après une courte randonnée. La calanque de Port-Miou, la plus proche de Cassis, est un ancien port naturel entouré de pinèdes et de criques secrètes.
Les sentiers qui traversent ce paysage grandiose permettent d’accéder à des points de vue imprenables sur la mer et les îles du Frioul. Certains itinéraires demandent une bonne condition physique en raison des dénivelés et des passages escarpés, mais l’effort est largement récompensé par la beauté du site.
Côté mer, les calanques se découvrent aussi en bateau, offrant une perspective unique sur ces formations rocheuses sculptées par l’érosion. Les amateurs de plongée y trouveront des fonds marins riches en biodiversité, où se côtoient coraux, mérous et bancs de poissons multicolores.
À la croisée entre mer et montagne, les calanques sont un véritable paradis pour les amoureux de nature et d’aventure, offrant un spectacle inoubliable à chaque saison.
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Les calanques
A treasure of the Mediterranean coast
Located between Marseille and Cassis, the calanques form a unique and spectacular landscape on the French Mediterranean coast. These narrow, deep coves, framed by limestone cliffs and bathed by turquoise waters, attract thousands of visitors every year in search of unspoiled nature and breathtaking views. The calanques, true jewels of Provence, offer a multitude of activities for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and the simply curious. This text invites you to discover the natural, historical, and tourist riches of this exceptional site and to prepare for an unforgettable visit.
Ushuaïa Villages near the Calanques
Learn more about the calanques
The calanques, with their wild beauty and natural riches, are a real treasure of the Mediterranean coast. Whether you enjoy hiking, swimming, climbing, or simply admiring spectacular landscapes, this exceptional site offers unforgettable experiences for all visitors. By respecting the environment and following practical advice, you will help preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations. So don't hesitate, pack your bags and set off to discover the Calanques, one of the most beautiful gems of Provence.
Geography and Description
The calanques stretch for about 20 kilometers between the city of Marseille and the charming port of Cassis. This limestone massif plunging into the sea forms a rugged and impressive landscape, with steep cliffs sometimes reaching over 400 meters in height. Among the most famous are the Calanque de Sormiou, renowned for its fine sandy beach and picturesque cabins; Morgiou, known for its fishing port and sea caves; and En-Vau, a true paradise for climbers with its vertical walls and emerald waters.
Each calanque has its own unique character and attractions, offering varied landscapes ranging from secret coves accessible only by boat or after a long walk, to more easily accessible but equally charming beaches. The Calanque de Port-Pin, for example, is appreciated for its dense vegetation and maritime pines that descend to the water's edge. While exploring these sites, visitors can admire spectacular geological formations, cliffs sculpted by erosion, and a rich seabed.
The history of the Calanques
The calanques are the result of millions of years of erosion and tectonic movements, which have sculpted this unique landscape. The first traces of human occupation date back to prehistoric times, with remains found in several caves. Over the centuries, these isolated coves have served as a refuge for fishermen, smugglers, and even pirates.
The modern history of the calanques is marked by the creation of the Calanques National Park in 2012, Europe's first peri-urban national park. This protected status aims to preserve the site's exceptional biodiversity, while allowing controlled and respectful access for visitors. The park covers an area of 8,500 hectares of land and 43,500 hectares of sea, including not only the calanques themselves but also the surrounding islands such as the Riou archipelago. Thanks to these protective measures, the calanques remain a natural sanctuary where flora and fauna can thrive.
Tourist Activities
The calanques offer a multitude of activities for all tastes and levels. Hiking is undoubtedly the most popular activity, with marked trails offering breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs. The GR 98-51, which connects Marseille to Cassis, is a must-do route for experienced hikers, while shorter and more accessible trails allow everyone to enjoy the beauty of the area.
Swimming is another popular activity, with sandy or pebble beaches offering crystal clear, refreshing waters. The calanques (rocky inlets) of Sormiou and Port-Pin are particularly popular for swimming, thanks to their idyllic beaches. Thrill seekers can try their hand at rock climbing on the steep walls of the calanques, particularly at En-Vau, which is a world-renowned site for this sport.
Scuba diving and snorkeling allow visitors to discover the underwater riches of the calanques, with colorful seabeds and exceptional biodiversity. Several diving clubs offer guided tours to explore the underwater caves and coral reefs. Finally, kayaking or boat trips are an excellent way to discover the calanques from the sea, offering a unique perspective on these magnificent landscapes.
Practical Advice for Visitors
To get the most out of your visit to the calanques, it is important to be well prepared. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the trails are passable. In summer, it is advisable to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
The Calanques can be accessed in various ways: by car, by bus from Marseille or Cassis, or on foot for the more adventurous. Some sites are also accessible by boat, with organized excursions from the ports of Marseille and Cassis.
It is essential to respect the environment by following a few simple rules: do not leave any trash behind, do not pick plants, and stay on the marked trails to avoid erosion. Also, remember to bring good walking shoes, plenty of water, and sunscreen. Finally, check the weather conditions and any access restrictions before you leave.
Where is the point of interest located ?
Stretching between Marseille and Cassis, on the coastline of Bouches-du-Rhône, the Calanques form a striking landscape. This natural gem combines secret coves, steep trails, and magnificent panoramas.
Les calanques
13009 Marseille
