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Parc du Mugel: A Mediterranean Oasis

Discover Parc du Mugel in La Ciotat: A Mediterranean paradise with exotic gardens, stunning coastal views, and a rich history.

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Parc du Mugel, a 12-hectare botanical garden in La Ciotat, is a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Sheltered by the imposing Bec de l'Aigle rock formation, the park boasts diverse flora, stunning coastal views, and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and families.

A brief summary to Parc du Mugel

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the park's trails and exploring the calanque.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas within the park.
  • Visit the park in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset views from the belvedere.
  • Check the park's opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From La Ciotat city center or the train station (Gare de La Ciotat), take the Ciotabus line 355 to the 'Le Mugel' stop. The bus stop is a short walk from the park entrance. The fare for a single trip is €0.90.

  • Walking

    From the Old Port (Vieux Port) of La Ciotat, walk south along Avenue Victor Giraud, then turn left onto Avenue des Calanques. Continue for approximately 20 minutes. The Parc du Mugel entrance will be on your left, near the Calanque du Grand Mugel.

  • Driving

    From the A50 motorway, follow signs for La Ciotat. Once in La Ciotat, follow signs for 'Calanques' and then 'Parc du Mugel'. Limited parking is available at Parking du Mugel on Avenue des Calanques, approximately 200 meters from the park entrance. Parking is paid year-round, and rates vary, expect to pay around €2-3 per hour or €10-15 for the day.

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Discover more about Parc du Mugel

Parc du Mugel, a designated Remarkable Garden of France, offers visitors a captivating experience with its diverse landscapes and rich history. Situated on the Mediterranean coast in La Ciotat, between Marseille and Toulon, this 12-hectare park is sheltered from the Mistral wind by the impressive Bec de l'Aigle (Eagle's Beak) rock formation. This natural barrier creates a microclimate ideal for a wide variety of plant species to thrive. The park's history dates back to 1805 when it was divided into three properties. In 1923, Louis Fouquet, a coal merchant from Marseille, purchased the land and created the tropical garden. During World War II, one of the park's buildings served as a youth hostel, providing refuge for those fleeing Nazi Europe. The town of La Ciotat acquired the property in 1952 and opened it to the public in 1982. Today, Parc du Mugel is a beloved destination for locals and tourists. Visitors can explore the tropical garden, the Provençal nature preserve, and the aromatic garden. A steep path leads to a belvedere with panoramic views of the sea. The park also features picnic areas and a playground for children. Just below the park lies the Calanque du Mugel, a rocky inlet with two small beaches, Grand Mugel and Petit Mugel.

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