Calanque d'en Vau: A Mediterranean Masterpiece
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Calanque d'en Vau, a hidden paradise in the Calanques National Park, offering stunning cliffs, turquoise waters, and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Calanque d'en Vau is arguably the most stunning of the 26 calanques nestled along the French Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis. This natural wonder boasts towering, bone-white limestone cliffs that dramatically plunge into turquoise waters, creating a breathtaking fjord-like inlet. The secluded pebble beach at the end of the calanque offers a tranquil escape, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Reaching this idyllic spot requires a scenic hike, adding to the sense of discovery and rewarding visitors with unparalleled views. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a slice of paradise, Calanque d'en Vau promises an unforgettable experience. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and sun protection for your adventure to this Mediterranean gem. Remember that access is restricted during periods of high fire risk, typically in the summer months, so check conditions before you go.
A brief summary to Calanque d'en Vau
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Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails are rocky and can be slippery, especially on the descent to the beach.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there are no facilities or shade available at the calanque.
- Check the fire risk warnings before you go, especially during summer, as access may be restricted on high-risk days.
- Arrive early in the morning or visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the crowds.
- Consider bringing snorkeling gear to explore the clear waters and marine life in the calanque.
Getting There
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Walking
The final approach to Calanque d'en Vau is primarily on foot, involving a hike from either Cassis or the Col de la Gardiole. From Cassis, follow the Avenue des Calanques to Calanque de Port-Miou, then continue to Calanque de Port-Pin. From Port-Pin, two trails lead to En-Vau: a scenic coastal path (longer) or a direct inland trail (shorter). Both routes involve a descent into the calanque. Alternatively, from the Parking du Logisson near Col de la Gardiole (accessible by car or bus M08 from Marseille, Carpiagne Gineste stop, followed by a lengthy walk), follow the marked trails down to En-Vau. Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike with rocky terrain. Note that parking near Port-Miou in Cassis can cost €10 per day in private lots; street parking is limited. A shuttle from Parking-relais des Gorguettes to Port-Miou costs €1.60 round trip.
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Boat
For an alternative approach, consider a boat trip from Marseille or Cassis. Several companies offer excursions that include Calanque d'en Vau, providing a unique perspective from the sea. These tours often include swimming stops. Boat tour prices vary widely depending on the duration and included amenities, but expect to pay upwards of €250 for a private boat for a day.
Discover more about Calanque d'en Vau
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis
1.4 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.
HOME CASSIS. Maison Les Calanques
2.2 km
Escape to Cassis: Holiday apartments with pool access, near beaches & the stunning Calanques National Park. Your perfect coastal getaway awaits!
escalade calanques
2.4 km
Discover the thrill of rock climbing in Calanques National Park with guided excursions for all levels, set amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Plage de la Grande Mer
3.2 km
Experience the stunning Plage de la Grande Mer, a pristine beach in Cassis, France, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and indulging in local gastronomy.
GIE des Bateliers Cassidens
3.3 km
Explore the stunning Calanques National Park with boat tours departing from the charming port of Cassis, a jewel of the French Riviera.
Calanques Bleu Mistral
3.3 km
Explore the Calanques National Park's stunning beauty with boat tours departing from Cassis. Discover hidden coves, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.
Cassis Calanques Plongée
3.3 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the Calanques National Park with Cassis Calanques Plongée. Dive into adventure!
Les Drailles de la Mémoire
3.5 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Cassis at Les Drailles de la Mémoire, where history and art come alive in an inspiring setting.
Plage du Corton
3.7 km
Escape to Plage du Corton in Cassis for a serene beach experience with stunning views of Cap Canaille and crystal-clear waters.
Domaine de Canaille
4.1 km
Experience luxury and history at Domaine de Canaille in Cassis: a stunning villa with breathtaking views, private beach access, and modern amenities.
Falaises de Cassis
4.2 km
Experience the grandeur of the Falaises de Cassis: dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and the allure of the French Riviera.
Kayak Cassis Calanques Immersion
4.2 km
Discover the Calanques National Park's hidden beauty with guided kayak tours, exploring stunning cliffs and crystal waters near Cassis, France.
La Demeure Insoupçonnée - Chambres d'hôtes et Gîtes à Cassis / Calanques - Piscine, SPA, Massages
4.2 km
Experience Provençal charm at this Cassis B&B with stunning sea views, a tranquil pool, and easy access to Calanques National Park.
Cap Canaille
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Cap Canaille, a stunning mountain peak near Cassis, offering panoramic views and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Obélisque de Mazargues
9.6 km
Discover the Obélisque de Mazargues, a historical monument in Marseille that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Calanques d'en vau
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Calanques d'en Vau, a breathtaking hiking area near Marseille, where cliffs meet crystal-clear waters in a natural paradise.
Belvédère d'En-Vau
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Belvédère d'En-Vau in Calanques National Park, a hiker's paradise with stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Calanque de Port Pin
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Calanque de Port Pin, a serene beach paradise in the heart of Calanques National Park, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Sentier du Petit Prince
1.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes along the enchanting Sentier du Petit Prince in Cassis, a must-visit hiking trail in France.
Belvédère de Port Miou
1.5 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the Calanque de Port Miou, a gateway to the stunning Calanques National Park near Cassis, blending natural beauty with rich industrial history.
Calanque
1.8 km
Explore the stunning Calanque of Cassis, where dramatic cliffs meet azure waters in a breathtaking natural paradise.
Cassis Fjord
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Cassis Fjord, where dramatic cliffs meet azure waters, offering adventure and relaxation on the stunning French Riviera.
Calanque de Port-Miou
2.1 km
Explore the stunning Calanque de Port-Miou in Cassis, a natural paradise with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters.
Plage naturiste reco max
2.3 km
Discover Plage Naturiste Reco Max in Cassis: a unique, secluded nude beach with stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a natural coastal escape.
Plage du Bestouan
2.8 km
Experience the beauty of Plage du Bestouan, a captivating public beach in Cassis with golden sands and turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Cassis rock
2.9 km
Explore the stunning Cassis Rock, a majestic natural attraction offering breathtaking views, adventure activities, and serene coastal beauty in Southern France.
Cassis Lighthouse
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Cassis Lighthouse, a historic beacon overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for scenic views and coastal exploration.
Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette
3.3 km
Discover the stunning coastal beauty and rich heritage of Cassis aboard Le Petit Train Touristique, an enchanting ride through this picturesque town.
Port de Cassis
3.3 km
Discover the timeless charm of Port de Cassis, a picturesque harbor nestled on the French Riviera, offering stunning views, fresh seafood, and a gateway to the Calanques National Park and the vineyards of Provence.
Visit Of Creeks
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cassis' creeks through unforgettable boat tours along the stunning French Riviera.
Essential places to dine
La Plage Bleue
1.5 km
Experience Mediterranean dining at La Plage Bleue in Cassis with stunning sea views and delectable French cuisine.
La Presqu'île
1.5 km
Discover La Presqu'île in Cassis: where exquisite haute French cuisine meets stunning Mediterranean views.
Les Belles Canailles
2.6 km
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Restaurant Rocco
2.6 km
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La Pétanque
2.6 km
Discover La Pétanque in Cassis - where authentic French cuisine meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Le Naïo: Bar, Restaurant, Tapas,Glacier
3.1 km
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La Nonna D'oro
3.2 km
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La Vieille Auberge
3.2 km
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Le Bistrot de Nino
3.2 km
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Le Grand Large
3.3 km
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Restaurant Calendal
3.3 km
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Le Patio
3.3 km
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L'Oustau de la Mar
3.3 km
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Chez Gilbert
3.3 km
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L'Escalier
3.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Villa Calanco
2.7 km
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Calanque Ice
2.8 km
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Le Golfe
3.2 km
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Office de Tourisme de Cassis
3.2 km
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KANAYE CASSIS
3.3 km
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Boutique Autrefois
3.4 km
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LULLI Cassis
3.4 km
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Hotel des Calanques
3.4 km
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SOULEIADO
3.4 km
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Boutique Jack et Dany
3.5 km
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LA SAVONNERIE DE CASSIS
3.6 km
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Calanc'O Kayak Paddle Cassis / Marseille
3.8 km
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Camping Les Cigales
4.2 km
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La Compagnie des Tuktuks
4.2 km
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Moxy La Ciotat
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and modern comfort at Moxy La Ciotat, your perfect getaway on the Mediterranean coast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Loup Bar
2.6 km
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same same beach
2.8 km
Enjoy fresh local cuisine and stunning Mediterranean views at Same Same Beach in beautiful Cassis.
Best Western Hôtel La Rade
3.1 km
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Monsieur Brun
3.3 km
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Les Caves Du Port
3.3 km
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Chez Totoch
3.3 km
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Bar De La Marine
3.3 km
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Bar Le France
3.3 km
Discover the flavors of Cassis at Bar Le France, where French cuisine meets stunning harbor views in a charming coastal setting.
Bar Le Port
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Bar Le Port, the perfect spot to unwind in Cassis with a refreshing drink.
Cafe Glacier Liautaud
3.4 km
Experience the charm of Cassis at Café Glacier Liautaud, where Italian coffee and French pastries create a delightful culinary escape.
Divino
3.4 km
Experience the culinary delights of Divino in Cassis, where fresh ingredients and local flavors create unforgettable dining moments.
Corton beach
3.7 km
Discover the beauty and flavors of Corton Beach in Cassis, where stunning landscapes meet delightful local cuisine for an unforgettable experience.
Ucpa Sormiou
6.6 km
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Keg & Can
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at Keg & Can, Marseille's premier beer hall.
le calanques le figuerolles
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Le Calanques Le Figuerolles, a coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, hiking, and unforgettable views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
YACHT CLUB DE CASSIS
3.1 km
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Cercle démocratique de Cassis
3.4 km
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BIG BEN CASSIS
3.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Big Ben Cassis, a vibrant night club in the heart of Cassis, perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
Victoria Cassis
3.4 km
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POP Club
7.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at POP Club in Marseille, where music and celebration create unforgettable memories.
Club Ecossais
9.5 km
Dive into Marseille's nightlife at Club Ecossais, a premier night club offering thrilling music, vibrant energy, and unforgettable experiences under the stars.
FaraNight Clubbing
10.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at FaraNight Clubbing in Marseille, where top DJs and vibrant dance floors create unforgettable experiences.
Le Miami - Marseille
10.8 km
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Bibi
11.4 km
Discover Bibi, Marseille's vibrant night club offering electrifying music, stylish ambiance, and unforgettable nightlife experiences along the beautiful coast.
Barta
11.4 km
Dive into the heart of Marseille's nightlife at Barta, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await you.
Ginanik
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ginanik, Marseille's premier girl bar, featuring stunning performances and creative cocktails for an unforgettable evening.
Les Samedis du MamaBeach - Marseille
11.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Marseille at Les Samedis du MamaBeach, a premier night club offering stunning views and lively music.
BAZAR
11.8 km
Discover the heart of Marseille's nightlife at BAZAR, where electrifying beats and vibrant crowds create unforgettable dance experiences.
LA PALMERAIE
11.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of La Palmeraie, a premier disco club in Marseille, blending dance, music, and vibrant atmosphere.
XOXO Club
11.8 km
Unleash your inner dancer at XOXO Club, Marseille's lively disco haven, where unforgettable nights and vibrant beats come together.
