Parc National des Calanques: A Coastal Paradise
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Parc National des Calanques: Hike dramatic limestone cliffs, swim in turquoise waters, and explore diverse Mediterranean ecosystems near Marseille.
The Parc National des Calanques, a stunning natural park near Marseille, France, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Characterized by its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters, the park offers a diverse landscape perfect for hiking, rock climbing, swimming, and kayaking. The Calanques are a unique geological formation, creating a breathtaking coastal scenery. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species and marine life. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike with panoramic views, a relaxing day on a secluded beach, or an opportunity to explore the Mediterranean's underwater world, the Parc National des Calanques promises an unforgettable experience. Its proximity to Marseille makes it easily accessible, yet it feels worlds away from the bustling city, offering a serene escape into nature's embrace. Remember to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before venturing out, and respect the park's regulations to preserve its beauty for future generations.
A brief summary to Parc national des Calanques
- Marseille, 13008, FR
- +33420105000
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the official Parc National des Calanques website for trail closures and fire risk warnings, especially during summer.
- Arrive early or use public transportation, as parking at popular trailheads is limited, particularly in peak season.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the Mediterranean sun can be intense, especially during hikes.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Marseille city center (e.g., Vieux Port), take bus line B1 to Luminy. From Luminy, several hiking trails lead into the Parc National des Calanques. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2. The hike from Luminy to Calanque de Sugiton takes about 1 hour. Alternatively, from Cassis, take the shuttle bus to the Port Miou trailhead. This shuttle costs around €3. From Port Miou, it's a 30-minute walk to Calanque de Port Pin and another 30 minutes to Calanque d'En-Vau. Note that during peak season, shuttle buses may require reservations.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Marseille city center (e.g., Gare Saint-Charles) to Luminy (the gateway to several Calanques trails) will cost approximately €30-€40, depending on traffic and the time of day. From there, you'll need to hike into the park. Note that taxis cannot drive directly into the Calanques themselves.
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Driving
Driving to the Parc National des Calanques is possible, but parking is extremely limited, especially during peak season. Parking near Luminy (for access to Sugiton) or near Cassis (for access to Port Miou and En-Vau) can cost around €5-€10 per hour, with daily rates reaching €20-€30. Be prepared to walk a considerable distance from the parking area to the calanques. During summer months, road access may be restricted due to fire risk; check local advisories before driving.
Discover more about Parc national des Calanques
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Obélisque de Mazargues
4.9 km
Discover the Obélisque de Mazargues, a historical monument in Marseille that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.
HOME CASSIS. Maison Les Calanques
6.6 km
Escape to Cassis: Holiday apartments with pool access, near beaches & the stunning Calanques National Park. Your perfect coastal getaway awaits!
Plage de la Vieille Chapelle
6.7 km
Experience the beauty of Plage de la Vieille Chapelle, a stunning beach in Marseille perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine.
escalade calanques
6.8 km
Discover the thrill of rock climbing in Calanques National Park with guided excursions for all levels, set amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Bleu Evasion - Visite des calanques en bateau avec skipper
7.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Calanques in Marseille with Bleu Evasion's exceptional boat tours, perfect for a memorable adventure on the Mediterranean.
Plage de l'Huveaune
7.2 km
Discover the serene escape of Plage de l'Huveaune, a stunning beach in Marseille perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying Mediterranean sunsets.
Cassis rock
7.3 km
Explore Cassis Rock, a stunning natural attraction in France, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a glimpse into the rich coastal biodiversity.
TantraHome Marseille
7.4 km
Discover the ultimate relaxation at TantraHome Marseille, your go-to massage spa for rejuvenating treatments in the heart of the city.
La Petite Calanque
7.5 km
Experience the charm of Marseille at La Petite Calanque, a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for exploring the stunning Mediterranean coastline.
Vestiges du Téléscaphe
7.5 km
Explore the fascinating archaeological site of Vestiges du Télescaphe in Marseille, where history meets stunning Mediterranean views.
Port de Cassis
7.7 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Cassis, a picturesque port offering stunning views, boat tours to the Calanques, and a taste of Provençal charm.
Cassis Calanques Plongée
7.7 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the Calanques National Park with Cassis Calanques Plongée. Dive into adventure!
Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette
7.7 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cassis aboard Le Petit Train Touristique, a charming ride through picturesque landscapes and stunning coastal views.
Visit Of Creeks
7.7 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Calanques, where adventure meets tranquility in the heart of Cassis, France.
Plage de la Grande Mer
7.7 km
Experience the stunning Plage de la Grande Mer, a pristine beach in Cassis, France, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and indulging in local gastronomy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Calanque de Morgiou
0.5 km
Discover the Calanque de Morgiou, a hidden paradise in Marseille's Calanques National Park, offering stunning natural beauty, authentic charm, and a glimpse into a traditional way of life.
Belvédère de Sugiton
0.6 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Belvédère de Sugiton, an unforgettable observation deck in Calanques National Park, near Marseille.
Plage Sauvage de Morgiou
0.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Plage Sauvage de Morgiou, a hidden gem in Marseille's Calanques National Park, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Massif des Calanques
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Massif des Calanques, a stunning national park near Marseille, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Les Calanques
1.1 km
Explore the stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Les Calanques, a natural gem near Marseille, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Calanque de Sugiton
1.3 km
Discover Calanque de Sugiton, a stunning Mediterranean inlet near Marseille, offering breathtaking hikes, crystal-clear waters, and iconic rock formations within the protected Calanques National Park.
Col de la Candelle, Parc National des Calanques
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Col de la Candelle, a highlight of Parc National des Calanques in Marseille.
Calanque de Sormiou
1.9 km
Explore the stunning Calanque de Sormiou, a picturesque bay in France, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable natural beauty.
Sormiou
2.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Sormiou, a hidden coastal paradise in Marseille, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views.
Col de la Gineste
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Col de la Gineste, the scenic mountain pass near Marseille, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Fontaine de Voire
4.3 km
Explore the Fontaine de Voire in Marseille, a stunning historical fountain that showcases exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Belvédère d'En-Vau
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Belvédère d'En-Vau in Calanques National Park, a hiker's paradise with stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Pyramide du Roy d'Espagne
4.7 km
Discover the enigmatic Pyramide du Roy d'Espagne in Marseille: a unique 19th-century replica offering a glimpse into Egyptology's allure amidst the vibrant Provençal landscape.
Calanque d'En-vau
4.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Calanque d'En-vau, a serene beach in France's Calanques National Park, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Calanques d'en vau
4.8 km
Explore the stunning Calanques d'en Vau, a breathtaking hiking area near Marseille, where cliffs meet crystal-clear waters in a natural paradise.
Essential places to dine
Bar Nautic Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean flavors at Bar Nautic Restaurant in scenic Calanque Morgiou, Marseille.
Sormiou Castle
2.1 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Sormiou Castle while enjoying breathtaking views in Marseille's beautiful Calanque de Sormiou.
Chez Zé
2.3 km
Experience authentic pizza and French delicacies at Chez Zé in Marseille - where culinary traditions meet coastal charm.
Les Terrasses du Phocéen
2.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning Mediterranean views at Les Terrasses du Phocéen in Marseille.
Brasserie Des Calanques
3.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Brasserie Des Calanques amidst stunning coastal views in Marseille.
La Table du Chef - Restaurant Marseille
4.3 km
Discover La Table du Chef: A premier French and Mediterranean dining experience in Marseille offering fresh ingredients and exquisite flavors.
RESTAURANT LE JARDIN MAZARGUES
4.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Le Jardin Mazargues, a hidden gem in Marseille's picturesque village.
Le Drip's Bar & Restaurant
5.4 km
Indulge in authentic French cuisine at Le Drip's Bar & Restaurant in Marseille, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
Chez Le Belge
5.8 km
Discover authentic Belgian cuisine at Chez Le Belge in Calanque de Marseilleveyre – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
Le Ventre de l'Architecte
6.1 km
Experience fine dining at Le Ventre de l'Architecte in Marseille - where exquisite French cuisine meets stunning architecture.
La Presqu'île
6.3 km
Discover La Presqu'île in Cassis: where exquisite haute French cuisine meets stunning Mediterranean views.
La Plage Bleue
6.3 km
Experience Mediterranean dining at La Plage Bleue in Cassis with stunning sea views and delectable French cuisine.
Le Calanquais
6.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning Mediterranean views at Le Calanquais in Marseille.
Le Lagon Bleu
6.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and delightful pizzas at Le Lagon Bleu in Marseille – a must-visit culinary destination!
Question de Goût
6.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Terre de Soleil
4.2 km
Explore Terre de Soleil in Marseille for unique clothing that captures the vibrant spirit of local fashion and Mediterranean lifestyle.
So and So
4.2 km
Explore So and So in Marseille for a unique blend of local and international fashion experiences that elevate your wardrobe.
Eva Kayan
4.5 km
Discover unique fashion at Eva Kayan, a chic clothing store in Marseille offering contemporary styles and personalized shopping experiences.
PEARLS OF Paline
4.7 km
Explore a world of creativity at Pearls of Paline, Marseille's premier bead store offering a rich selection of crafting supplies and artistic inspiration.
Casino Shop
5.2 km
Explore Marseille's local flavors and essentials at Casino Shop, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and baked delights.
Black SunSet
5.4 km
Explore creativity and personal expression at Black SunSet, Marseille's premier custom t-shirt store, where your wardrobe meets local artistry.
Centre Commercial Bonneveine
5.5 km
Explore the lively Centre Commercial Bonneveine, a premier shopping destination in Marseille offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
Orange
5.6 km
Discover the ultimate mobile experience in Marseille at Orange, your one-stop shop for devices, repairs, and accessories.
Eros p
5.7 km
Discover unique styles at Eros P, a trendy clothing store capturing the essence of Marseille's vibrant fashion scene.
Symboles et Signes | Boutique maçonnique
5.8 km
Uncover the secrets of Freemasonry at Symboles et Signes, Marseille's premier boutique for Masonic literature and symbolic arts.
Vival
6.0 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Vival in Marseille, where convenience meets local flavor in an inviting shopping experience.
Gris Perle
6.1 km
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By Mamé
6.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Marseille at By Mamé, where fashion meets beauty and culinary delights in a unique shopping experience.
Kulture Marseille
6.6 km
Discover Kulture Marseille, your premier destination for surf, skate, and snowboard gear in the heart of the Mediterranean!
Arkose Prado
6.8 km
Experience the thrill of rock climbing and the tranquility of Pilates at Arkose Prado, a unique venue in the heart of Marseille offering adventure and relaxation.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ucpa Sormiou
2.0 km
Discover the thrill of outdoor sports in the breathtaking Calanques National Park at Ucpa Sormiou, where adventure and nature meet.
Keg & Can
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at Keg & Can, Marseille's premier beer hall.
O'BRADY'S IRISH PUB
6.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic Irish cuisine at O'Brady's Irish Pub in Marseille, where every visit is a celebration of good food and friendship.
Bar Le Coquet
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Bar Le Coquet, a must-visit bar in the heart of Marseille with a welcoming atmosphere and delightful beverages.
Pub Le Black Stone
6.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Pub Le Black Stone, a hub for live music, karaoke, and delicious pizza.
Bar des Amis
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sea views at Bar des Amis in Marseille, a perfect spot for drinks and relaxation.
The Red Lion
6.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Red Lion in Marseille, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and local culture come together in a lively pub setting.
Connolly's Corner
6.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Connolly's Corner in Marseille, where delicious food and drinks await in a cozy setting.
La Rhumerie
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at La Rhumerie, a unique cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of Marseille, serving exquisite rum and French cuisine.
Le Loup Bar
7.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and gourmet delights at Le Loup Bar in Cassis, where stunning views meet culinary excellence.
same same beach
7.2 km
Enjoy fresh local cuisine and stunning Mediterranean views at Same Same Beach in beautiful Cassis.
Bar Amical
7.2 km
Discover Bar Amical in Marseille: where stunning views, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Best Western Hôtel La Rade
7.4 km
Discover the charm of Cassis at Best Western Hôtel La Rade, your perfect base for exploring the stunning French Riviera.
Monsieur Brun
7.6 km
Discover the culinary delights of Monsieur Brun in Cassis, where traditional French cuisine meets stunning harbor views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Les Caves Du Port
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Les Caves Du Port, the perfect bar in Cassis to unwind and enjoy local flavors.
