Parc national des Calanques (cœur)

Best of Parc national des Calanques

Parc national des Calanques (cœur) Essentials

Spanning the coastline between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques National Park features steep limestone cliffs and narrow, deep-water inlets. This selection highlights the historic fortress of Château d'If, the prehistoric Cosquer Cave, and the high-altitude Route des Crêtes. Remote bays like En-Vau and Sormiou offer secluded swimming spots accessible via rugged hiking trails or by boat, while the harbors of Cassis and Callelongue serve as gateways to this protected Mediterranean wilderness.

Parc national des Calanques (cœur) Essentials — Map

Charliemoon / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Chateau d’If

The Château d'If is a fortress located on the Île d'If, the smallest island in the Frioul archipelago, situated about 1.5 kilometres…

Musat Andy / CC-BY-SA

B

Château de Cassis

A private 13th-century fortification overlooking the harbor. Originally a Carolingian site, it was fortified by the Seigneurs des Baux and later served as a defensive stronghold against maritime invasions. It now operates as a luxury hotel.

Jan Jakeš / CC-BY-SA

C

Frioul Archipelago

The Frioul archipelago is a group of four islands located off the Mediterranean coast of France, approximately 4 kilometres from Marseille.

La Cigale / CC-BY-SA-3.0

D

Route des Crêtes

Scenic road offering magnificent views of the mountains.

EL KAOUTARI / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Calanque de Morgiou

A deep inlet featuring a small fishing harbor and traditional Mediterranean cottages. It is the site of the prehistoric Cosquer Cave and is accessible via a steep, winding road or hiking trails from the Luminy district.

Bruno / CC-BY-SA

F

Calanque d'En-Vau

One of the park's highest and steepest inlets, characterized by towering limestone cliffs and turquoise water. It is accessible only by boat or a challenging hike from Cassis or the Gardiole plateau.

Anthospace / CC BY-SA 3.0

G

Calanque de Callelongue

Located at the southern tip of Marseille, this site marks the western entrance to the national park. It features a small harbor, traditional houses, and serves as the starting point for the coastal GR 98-51 hiking trail.

H

Calanque de Sormiou

The largest inlet in the park, known for its wide sandy beach and historic fishing huts. It is one of the few areas with a seasonal restaurant and limited vehicle access for local residents.

Tobi 87 / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Calanque de Sugiton

Situated near the Luminy university campus, this site features two small pebble beaches and a distinctive rocky islet known as 'Le Torpilleur' (The Torpedo Boat) due to its unique shape.

SiefkinDR / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Cosquer Cave

The Cosquer Cave is located in the Calanque de Morgiou in Marseille, France, near Cap Morgiou.

K

Calanque de Port-Pin

Named for the Aleppo pines that line its shores, this inlet features a small shingle and sand beach. It is reached via a 30-minute coastal path from the neighboring Port-Miou.

Lcatta13410 / CC BY-SA 4.0

L

Calanque de Figuerolles

Located in La Ciotat, this site is distinguished by its 'puddingstone' conglomerate rock formations rather than limestone. The eroded cliffs have a reddish hue that contrasts with the deep blue water.

M

Port de Cassis

A Mediterranean fishing port lined with pastel-colored buildings and cafes. It serves as the primary departure point for boat tours exploring the national park and the cliffs of Cap Canaille.

Other Lists

Top Scuba Diving Spots Coastal Highlights Historic Sites & Fortresses Scenic Peaks and Viewpoints Climbing in the Calanques