Discover the Enchantment of Riou Archipelago
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Riou Archipelago, a serene retreat near Marseille, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nestled off the coast of Marseille, the Riou Archipelago is a stunning collection of islands offering breathtaking views, secluded beaches, and a rich marine ecosystem, perfect for tourists seeking a serene getaway.
A brief summary to Riou-archipel
- Marseille, FR
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the secluded beaches.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as some trails may be rugged.
- Check local boat schedules for transportation to and from the islands.
Getting There
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Car
From the city center of Marseille, drive towards the Calanques National Park. Take the A50 motorway, following signs for 'Aubagne'. Exit at 'Marseille-Centre' and continue along Avenue du Prado (D559). After about 5 km, follow signs for 'Calanques' and turn onto Route de la Calanque. Park at the designated parking area near the Calanque de Sormiou. Parking fees may apply, typically around €5-€10 for the day. From there, you will need to hike or take a boat to access the Riou-archipel.
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Public Transportation
Start by taking Metro Line 2 from any station in Marseille towards 'Sainte-Marguerite Dromel'. Get off at 'Sainte-Marguerite Dromel' station and transfer to bus number 21 towards 'Les Baumettes'. Get off at the last stop. From there, you can either hike or arrange a boat service to the Riou-archipel. Keep in mind that buses may have limited schedules, so check in advance for timings. A single bus ticket costs around €2.
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Boat
To reach the Riou-archipel by boat, you can book a ferry from the Old Port of Marseille. Look for companies offering trips to the Calanques islands. The boat ride typically lasts about 30-40 minutes and costs around €20-€30 for a round trip. Be sure to check the schedule in advance, as departures may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
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Hiking
If you prefer an adventurous route, after reaching the Calanque de Sormiou by car or public transport, there are marked hiking trails leading towards the Riou-archipel. The hike typically takes about 1-2 hours and requires good walking shoes and plenty of water. Always check local guidelines and trail conditions before setting off.
Discover more about Riou-archipel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Point de vue des Goudes
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La Petite Calanque
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Plage de la Vieille Chapelle
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Obélisque de Mazargues
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Plage de l'Huveaune
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TantraHome Marseille
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Mémorial des Rapatriés d'Algérie
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Plage du Prophète
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Sentier du Petit Prince
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Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis
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Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy
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La corniche
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Calanque de Port-Miou
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Basilique du Sacre-Cœur-de-Jesus
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Unmissable attractions to see
île de Riou
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Pas de la Demi Lune
4.8 km
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Sormiou
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Calanque de Sormiou
4.8 km
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Calanque de Callelongue
4.8 km
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Vestiges du Téléscaphe
4.9 km
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Blockhaus des Goudes
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Fortin des Goudes
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Fontaine de Voire
5.5 km
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Port des Goudes
5.5 km
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Les Calanques
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Grotte Rolland
5.9 km
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Massif des Calanques
6.0 km
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Calanque de Morgiou
6.2 km
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Plage Sauvage de Morgiou
6.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Chez Le Belge
3.9 km
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La Grotte
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La Marine Des Goudes
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Tuba Club - Cabanons et Restaurant
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Restaurant La Baie des Singes
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Chez Zé
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La Calanque Blanche Restaurant
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Bar Nautic Restaurant
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Brasserie Des Calanques
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Les Tamaris
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L'escale des Calanques
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La Cantine De Lynn
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Chez Aldo
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P.Kitchen restaurant bord de mer terrasse pointe rouge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vival
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Casino Shop
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Orange
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Black SunSet
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Pub Le Black Stone
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