Parc du Mugel: A Mediterranean Oasis

Discover a Mediterranean paradise at Parc du Mugel in La Ciotat: botanical gardens, stunning coastal views, and a tranquil escape within the Calanques National Park.

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Parc du Mugel

Nestled along the stunning coastline of La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel is a captivating blend of natural beauty and botanical wonder. This 12-hectare park, cradled by the imposing Bec de l'Aigle rock formation, offers visitors a serene escape with its diverse landscapes, ranging from exotic gardens to rugged coastal trails. Wander through bamboo groves, discover rare plant species, and relax on the shores of the picturesque Calanque du Mugel. With its panoramic views, picnic areas, and family-friendly atmosphere, Parc du Mugel is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat on the French Riviera. The park's unique microclimate, sheltered location, and historical significance make it a truly special place to explore, offering a refreshing contrast to the bustling city life.

A brief summary to Parc du Mugel

Calanque du Mugel, La Ciotat, 13600, FR
+33442086132
Visit website

Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the park involves some walking and potentially steep paths to reach viewpoints.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas, surrounded by the park's natural beauty.
Check the fire risk regulations before visiting, especially during the summer months, as the park may be closed on high-risk days.
Take advantage of the Ciotabus line 30 for an affordable and convenient way to reach the park from La Ciotat.
Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Getting There

Public Transport

From La Ciotat city center or the train station, take Ciotabus line 30. The fare is €0.90 per ride. Get off at the 'Le Mugel' stop, which is a short walk from the park entrance. Check the Ciotabus schedule for current timings.
Walking

From the Vieux Port (Old Port) of La Ciotat, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to Parc du Mugel. Follow the coastal path south, and you'll see signs directing you to Calanque du Mugel. The walk offers scenic views of the coastline.
Driving

If driving, follow signs for 'Calanque du Mugel'. There is a paid parking area (Parking du Mugel) located about 200 meters from the park entrance on Avenue des Calanques. Parking fees apply from May 1st to September 30th, between 9:00 AM and 11:30 PM. The first two hours of parking are free. Be aware that the direction of traffic has recently been reversed.

Discover more about Parc du Mugel

Parc du Mugel, a jewel of La Ciotat, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, botanical diversity, and historical significance. Situated on the edge of the Calanques National Park, this 12-hectare haven provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. The park's history is as rich and varied as its flora. Originally an ancient river delta, the area's unique geological formations, particularly the reddish 'poudingue' rock (puddingstone), tell a story of millennia of natural processes. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the land was transformed into a private estate, showcasing exotic gardens and meticulously designed landscapes. It was in 1982 that the park was opened to the public. Today, Parc du Mugel is a classified 'Remarkable Garden,' boasting a diverse collection of plant species thriving in its unique microclimate. Sheltered from the Mistral wind by the towering Bec de l'Aigle (Eagle's Beak) rock formation, the park enjoys a mild, stable environment that fosters the growth of both Mediterranean and tropical flora. Visitors can wander through bamboo groves, discover aromatic plants, admire cacti, and marvel at tropical species like strelitzias. The park is divided into distinct areas, each offering a unique sensory experience. The exotic garden welcomes visitors with vibrant colors and unusual textures, while the Provençal nature preserve showcases native species like holm oak and garrigue brush. Aromatic plants release their fragrant oils into the air, creating a truly immersive experience. The Calanque du Mugel, a rocky inlet of the Mediterranean, borders the park, offering stunning coastal views and access to two shingle beaches: Grand Mugel and Petit Mugel. The turquoise waters invite visitors to swim, sunbathe, and simply relax amidst the natural beauty. A steep path leads to a panoramic viewpoint at a height of 82 meters, providing breathtaking vistas of the sea, the Île Verte (Green Island), and the surrounding coastline. The Bec de l'Aigle, rising to 155 meters, dominates the landscape, its unusual rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion. Beyond its natural beauty, Parc du Mugel offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Hiking trails wind through the park, leading to hidden coves, scenic overlooks, and historical landmarks. Picnic areas provide ideal spots for enjoying a meal amidst the tranquil surroundings, while a playground offers entertainment for children. The park also serves as an educational center, with the Atelier Bleu (Blue Workshop) dedicated to raising awareness about coastal protection. Parc du Mugel is more than just a park; it's a sanctuary where nature, history, and culture converge. It's a place to escape the ordinary, to reconnect with the natural world, and to discover the hidden treasures of the French Riviera. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a botany enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Parc du Mugel offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected to the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Visiting Parc du Mugel is an experience that engages all the senses. The scent of aromatic plants fills the air, the sound of waves crashing against the shore creates a soothing soundtrack, and the sight of vibrant flowers and dramatic rock formations captivates the eye. It's a place where time slows down, allowing you to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of nature. The park's commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its well-maintained trails, its educational programs, and its dedication to sustainable practices. By visiting Parc du Mugel, you're not only treating yourself to a memorable experience but also supporting the preservation of this unique and valuable ecosystem. Whether you choose to spend an hour or a day exploring its wonders, Parc du Mugel will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. It's a place where you can discover the beauty of the Mediterranean, learn about its rich history, and reconnect with the natural world. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Parc du Mugel.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cap Canaille

5.3 km

Explore the breathtaking Cap Canaille, a stunning mountain peak near Cassis, offering panoramic views and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Falaises de Cassis

5.6 km

Experience the grandeur of the Falaises de Cassis: dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and the allure of the French Riviera.

Domaine de Canaille

6.5 km

Experience luxury and history at Domaine de Canaille in Cassis: a stunning villa with breathtaking views, private beach access, and modern amenities.

Kayak Cassis Calanques Immersion

6.6 km

Discover the Calanques National Park's hidden beauty with guided kayak tours, exploring stunning cliffs and crystal waters near Cassis, France.

Plage du Corton

7.1 km

Escape to Plage du Corton in Cassis for a serene beach experience with stunning views of Cap Canaille and crystal-clear waters.

Plage de la Grande Mer

7.6 km

Experience the stunning Plage de la Grande Mer, a pristine beach in Cassis, France, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and indulging in local gastronomy.

La Demeure Insoupçonnée - Chambres d'hôtes et Gîtes à Cassis / Calanques - Piscine, SPA, Massages

7.7 km

Experience Provençal charm at this Cassis B&B with stunning sea views, a tranquil pool, and easy access to Calanques National Park.

La Demeure Insoupçonnée - Chambres d'hôtes et Gîtes à Cassis / Calanques - Piscine, SPA, Massages

GIE des Bateliers Cassidens

7.7 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

7.7 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

7.8 km

Discover the underwater wonders of the Calanques National Park with Cassis Calanques Plongée. Dive into adventure!

Les Drailles de la Mémoire

7.9 km

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Cassis at Les Drailles de la Mémoire, where history and art come alive in an inspiring setting.

escalade calanques

8.3 km

Discover the thrill of rock climbing in Calanques National Park with guided excursions for all levels, set amidst stunning coastal scenery.

HOME CASSIS. Maison Les Calanques

8.4 km

Escape to Cassis: Holiday apartments with pool access, near beaches & the stunning Calanques National Park. Your perfect coastal getaway awaits!

Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis

8.5 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.

Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis

Obélisque de Mazargues

19.0 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

Grand Mugel Calanque

0.1 km

Discover the allure of Grand Mugel Calanque in La Ciotat: turquoise waters, botanical wonders, and breathtaking views within the Calanques National Park, a Riviera gem.

Calanque de Figuerolles

0.7 km

Experience the stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Calanque de Figuerolles, a serene natural paradise near La Ciotat, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Vieux-Port de La Ciotat

0.9 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at Vieux-Port de La Ciotat, a must-visit marina on the French Riviera.

Visite des calanques - Les amis des Calanques

1.0 km

Explore the stunning Calanques of La Ciotat, a breathtaking coastal paradise with crystal-clear waters, scenic trails, and rich biodiversity.

Visite des calanques - Les amis des Calanques

île Verte

1.1 km

Escape to Île Verte, the only wooded island in the Calanques National Park, just a short ferry ride from La Ciotat, offering history, nature, beaches, and panoramic views.

Plage Lumière

2.5 km

Discover Plage Lumière in La Ciotat: a family-friendly, accessible beach with historical ties to the Lumière brothers, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation on the French Riviera.

Parc Du Domaine De La Tour

2.8 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Du Domaine De La Tour in La Ciotat – a serene state park perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Rte des Crêtes

5.4 km

Discover breathtaking views and charming culture along Rte des Crêtes, a scenic route on the French Mediterranean coast.

Rte Des Cretes Begins

7.1 km

Experience breathtaking views and stunning landscapes on Rte Des Cretes, a scenic drive through the cliffs of Cassis, France.

Domaine du Bagnol

7.3 km

Explore Domaine du Bagnol in Cassis, a picturesque winery offering exquisite local wines, stunning views, and a taste of Provençal culture.

Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette

7.7 km

Discover the stunning coastal beauty and rich heritage of Cassis aboard Le Petit Train Touristique, an enchanting ride through this picturesque town.

Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette

Visit Of Creeks

7.7 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cassis' creeks through unforgettable boat tours along the stunning French Riviera.

Port de Cassis

7.8 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.

Four Banal

7.8 km

Explore the artistic heritage of Cassis at Four Banal, a charming museum celebrating local craftsmanship and culture.

Cassis

7.9 km

Discover the enchanting fishing village of Cassis, France, where stunning cliffs meet the Mediterranean, and vibrant culture awaits around every corner.

Discover O Rev Cassis: A charming restaurant offering exquisite French cuisine in the heart of Cassis, perfect for food lovers seeking authentic flavors.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Moxy La Ciotat

2.9 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and modern comfort at Moxy La Ciotat, your perfect getaway on the Mediterranean coast.

Camping Santa Gusta

4.1 km

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Camping Santa Gusta in La Ciotat, surrounded by nature's beauty and Mediterranean charm.

La Compagnie des Tuktuks

5.6 km

Discover the stunning coastal beauty of Cassis with La Compagnie des Tuktuks, offering eco-friendly sightseeing tours in the heart of Southern France.

LA SAVONNERIE DE CASSIS

7.3 km

Explore La Savonnerie de Cassis, a charming soap-making shop offering exquisite handmade soaps and unique gifts in the heart of Provence.

Hotel des Calanques

Discover the charm of Villa Calanco, your perfect holiday apartment rental in Cassis, surrounded by stunning Mediterranean beauty.

Calanque Ice

8.1 km

Experience artisanal ice cream bliss at Calanque Ice in Cassis, where delightful flavors meet stunning coastal views.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

le calanques le figuerolles

2.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Le Calanques Le Figuerolles, a coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, hiking, and unforgettable views.

Corton beach

7.0 km

Discover the beauty and flavors of Corton Beach in Cassis, where stunning landscapes meet delightful local cuisine for an unforgettable experience.

Divino

7.6 km

Experience the culinary delights of Divino in Cassis, where fresh ingredients and local flavors create unforgettable dining moments.

Cafe Glacier Liautaud

7.7 km

Experience the charm of Cassis at Café Glacier Liautaud, where Italian coffee and French pastries create a delightful culinary escape.

Bar Le Port

7.7 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Bar Le Port, the perfect spot to unwind in Cassis with a refreshing drink.

Bar Le France

7.8 km

Discover the flavors of Cassis at Bar Le France, where French cuisine meets stunning harbor views in a charming coastal setting.

Bar De La Marine

7.8 km

Experience the essence of Cassis at Bar De La Marine, where delightful French cuisine meets stunning Mediterranean views in a charming coastal setting.

Chez Totoch

7.8 km

Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Chez Totoch in Cassis, where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views.

Monsieur Brun

7.9 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

7.9 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Les Caves Du Port, the perfect bar in Cassis to unwind and enjoy local flavors.

Best Western Hôtel La Rade

8.1 km

Discover the charm of Cassis at Best Western Hôtel La Rade, your perfect base for exploring the stunning French Riviera.

same same beach

8.1 km

Enjoy fresh local cuisine and stunning Mediterranean views at Same Same Beach in beautiful Cassis.

Le Loup Bar

8.1 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and gourmet delights at Le Loup Bar in Cassis, where stunning views meet culinary excellence.

Ucpa Sormiou

15.9 km

Discover the thrill of outdoor sports in the breathtaking Calanques National Park at Ucpa Sormiou, where adventure and nature meet.

Keg & Can

17.1 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at Keg & Can, Marseille's premier beer hall.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of L'elysée in Marseille, a stylish lounge perfect for relaxation and socializing with friends.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Parc du Mugel with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Parc du Mugel: A Mediterranean Oasis

A brief summary to Parc du Mugel

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Driving

Unlock the Best of Parc du Mugel

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Parc du Mugel

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cap Canaille

Falaises de Cassis

Domaine de Canaille

Kayak Cassis Calanques Immersion

Plage du Corton

Plage de la Grande Mer

La Demeure Insoupçonnée - Chambres d'hôtes et Gîtes à Cassis / Calanques - Piscine, SPA, Massages

GIE des Bateliers Cassidens

Calanques Bleu Mistral

Cassis Calanques Plongée

Les Drailles de la Mémoire

escalade calanques

HOME CASSIS. Maison Les Calanques

Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis

Obélisque de Mazargues

Unmissable attractions to see

Grand Mugel Calanque

Calanque de Figuerolles

Vieux-Port de La Ciotat

Visite des calanques - Les amis des Calanques

île Verte

Plage Lumière

Parc Du Domaine De La Tour

Rte des Crêtes

Rte Des Cretes Begins

Domaine du Bagnol

Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette

Visit Of Creeks

Port de Cassis

Four Banal

Cassis

Essential places to dine

La Villa Madie

Chez Poulette a Cassis

Le Perroquet - Restaurant cassis

Le Grand Large

Le poisson rouge Cassis

Restaurant Le Chaudron

Saveurs Latines

Snack des calanques

La Voûte - Restaurant Cassis

a table

Restaurant Le Bonaparte

La Défonce

La Storia di Vincenzo

Le 8 et Demi

O Rev Cassis

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Moxy La Ciotat

Camping Santa Gusta

La Compagnie des Tuktuks

LA SAVONNERIE DE CASSIS

Hotel des Calanques

Boutique Jack et Dany

SOULEIADO

Boutique Autrefois

LULLI Cassis

Office de Tourisme de Cassis

KANAYE CASSIS

Le Golfe

Calanc'O Kayak Paddle Cassis / Marseille

Villa Calanco

Calanque Ice

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

le calanques le figuerolles

Corton beach

Divino