Massif des Calanques: A Coastal Wilderness
Explore the rugged beauty of France's Calanques National Park: Hike dramatic trails, discover hidden coves, and immerse yourself in coastal wilderness.
The Massif des Calanques, a stunning natural park in southern France, stretches along the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis. This rugged landscape of limestone cliffs, hidden calanques (narrow inlets), and diverse flora and fauna offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails.
A brief summary to Massif des Calanques
- Marseille, FR
Local tips
- Check access restrictions, especially during summer (June 1 to September 30), due to fire risk. Access is regulated and may be forbidden on certain days.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes. The terrain can be challenging, and the sun is intense.
- Consider using public transportation to reach the Calanques, as parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
- Make reservations online in advance if you plan to visit the Calanque de Sugiton during peak season.
- Take all your trash with you. There are no bins in the Calanques, and it's important to preserve the natural environment.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Marseille city center, take the Metro Line 2 to Rond-Point du Prado station. From there, several bus lines (21, B1) connect to Luminy, the main access point for hiking into the Calanques. Bus tickets cost around €2 per trip. Alternatively, bus line 19 from Castellane (Metro Lines 1 & 2, Tram Line 3) connects to Madrague de Montredon, where you can transfer to bus 20 towards Callelongue. Consider a Navette Maritime (sea shuttle) from Pointe Rouge to Les Goudes (available late May to late August) for €5 one way.
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Walking
Many trailheads are accessible from the RTM bus stops. From Luminy, follow the well-marked trails towards Calanque de Sugiton (allow 1 hour). From Les Baumettes (bus 22 terminus), walk towards Calanque de Morgiou (400m to Parc des Baumettes, then follow signs) or Calanque de Sormiou (follow signs to Col des Baumettes). Note: Hiking within the Calanques involves uneven terrain. Wear appropriate footwear and allow ample time.
Discover more about Massif des Calanques
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Obélisque de Mazargues
4.5 km
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Plage de la Vieille Chapelle
6.1 km
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Plage de l'Huveaune
6.7 km
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La Petite Calanque
6.8 km
Experience the charm of Marseille at La Petite Calanque, a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for exploring the stunning Mediterranean coastline.
Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis
6.9 km
Discover the Calanques National Park from a unique perspective with guided kayak tours and rentals in Cassis, France. Explore hidden coves and stunning coastlines.
TantraHome Marseille
6.9 km
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Point de vue des Goudes
7.1 km
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Blockhaus des Goudes
7.1 km
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Calanque de Port-Miou
7.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Calanque de Port-Miou, a breathtaking observation deck and hiking area in Cassis, France, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Parc Balnéaire du Prado
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at Parc Balnéaire du Prado, Marseille's premier urban park for relaxation and recreation.
HOME CASSIS. Maison Les Calanques
7.4 km
Escape to Cassis: Holiday apartments with pool access, near beaches & the stunning Calanques National Park. Your perfect coastal getaway awaits!
escalade calanques
7.5 km
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Mémorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie
8.0 km
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Cassis rock
8.0 km
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Basilique du Sacre-Cœur-de-Jesus
8.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Parc national des Calanques
0.8 km
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Calanque de Morgiou
0.8 km
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Plage Sauvage de Morgiou
1.0 km
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Belvédère de Sugiton
1.2 km
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Calanque de Sormiou
1.2 km
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Sormiou
1.3 km
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Les Calanques
1.3 km
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Calanque de Sugiton
1.9 km
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Col de la Candelle, Parc National des Calanques
2.4 km
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Col de la Gineste
3.2 km
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Fontaine de Voire
3.6 km
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Pyramide du Roy d'Espagne
4.1 km
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Belvédère d'En-Vau
5.1 km
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Pouce Cesar
5.2 km
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Grotte Rolland
5.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Bar Nautic Restaurant
0.9 km
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Sormiou Castle
1.3 km
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Chez Zé
1.6 km
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Les Terrasses du Phocéen
2.4 km
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Brasserie Des Calanques
3.2 km
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RESTAURANT LE JARDIN MAZARGUES
4.1 km
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La Table du Chef - Restaurant Marseille
4.1 km
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Le Drip's Bar & Restaurant
4.9 km
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Chez Le Belge
5.0 km
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Le Ventre de l'Architecte
5.8 km
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Le Calanquais
5.9 km
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Le Lagon Bleu
5.9 km
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P.Kitchen restaurant bord de mer terrasse pointe rouge
5.9 km
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Question de Goût
5.9 km
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O-beach Bar a Tapas
6.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Terre de Soleil
3.9 km
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Eva Kayan
4.0 km
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So and So
4.1 km
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PEARLS OF Paline
4.3 km
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Casino Shop
4.6 km
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Centre Commercial Bonneveine
5.0 km
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Orange
5.1 km
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Eros p
5.2 km
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Black SunSet
5.2 km
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Symboles et Signes | Boutique maçonnique
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Vival
5.3 km
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Gris Perle
5.8 km
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By Mamé
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Kulture Marseille
6.1 km
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Arkose Prado
6.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ucpa Sormiou
1.3 km
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Keg & Can
3.3 km
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O'BRADY'S IRISH PUB
5.7 km
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Bar des Amis
5.9 km
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The Red Lion
6.0 km
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Connolly's Corner
6.1 km
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Pub Le Black Stone
6.1 km
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Bar Le Coquet
6.2 km
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La Rhumerie
6.3 km
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Bar Amical
6.5 km
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20 000 Lieues
7.0 km
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Le New York Bar
7.6 km
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Skybar Marseille
7.7 km
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Le Loup Bar
7.8 km
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same same beach
8.0 km
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