Things to Do at Calanques National Park

Complete Guide to Calanques National Park in Marseille

About Calanques National Park

Calanques National Park is a impressive natural wonder stretching along 20 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline between Marseille and Cassis. Created in 2012, it's France's newest national park and one of Europe's few peri-urban parks, protecting a unique landscape of dramatic white limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves called 'calanques.' This pristine wilderness is home to over 900 plant species and numerous endemic flora, making it a UNESCO World Heritage candidate site. The park offers an extraordinary blend of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, while the rugged terrain above provides world-class hiking and rock climbing opportunities. The calanques were formed over millions of years by geological processes and sea-level changes, creating spectacular fjord-like inlets that contrast beautifully with the arid Mediterranean vegetation of the surrounding hills.

What to See & Do

Calanque d'En-Vau

The most famous and photographed calanque, featuring a impressive pebble beach surrounded by towering white cliffs and emerald waters, accessible via a challenging 90-minute hike

Calanque de Sormiou

A large, accessible calanque with a sandy beach, small fishing port, and restaurant, perfect for families and offering easier access by car (with restrictions)

Calanque de Morgiou

A picturesque inlet with a traditional fishing village atmosphere, featuring colorful boats, a small beach, and the underwater archaeological site of Cosquer Cave nearby

Cap Canaille

Europe's highest sea cliff at 394 meters, offering panoramic views over the Mediterranean and the entire Calanques coastline, accessible by the scenic Route des Crêtes

Calanque de Sugiton

A wild and pristine calanque popular with naturists, featuring dramatic rock formations and excellent snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Park is open year-round, but access may be restricted during high fire risk periods (typically July-September). Check official website for current restrictions.

Tickets & Pricing

Free entry to the park. Parking fees apply at some access points (€5-10). Guided tours available from €25-45 per person.

Best Time to Visit

April-June and September-October for hiking and moderate crowds. July-August for swimming but expect crowds and potential access restrictions.

Suggested Duration

Half-day for one calanque visit, 2-3 days to explore multiple calanques and hiking trails properly

Getting There

From Marseille, take Metro Line 2 to Castellane, then bus 21 to Luminy campus for Calanque d'En-Vau and Sugiton access. For Sormiou and Morgiou, drive via Avenue de Hambourg (parking limited and restricted in summer). From Cassis, walk or drive to Port-Miou, then hike to other calanques. During summer fire season, shuttle buses operate from park-and-ride facilities. The GR 98-51 coastal hiking trail connects all major calanques for those preferring to walk the entire coastline.

Things to Do Nearby

Cassis Village
Charming Provençal fishing port famous for its colorful harbor, local wines, and as a gateway to the eastern calanques
this destination
Historic fortress on a small island off Marseille, famous from Alexandre Dumas' 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' accessible by boat from Vieux-Port
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Marseille's iconic hilltop basilica offering panoramic city views and serving as the symbolic guardian of the city and its sailors
Vieux-Port de Marseille
Historic old port and heart of Marseille, surrounded by restaurants, markets, and serving as departure point for boat trips to the calanques
La Ciotat
Coastal town east of Cassis known for its beaches, the birthplace of cinema, and the impressive Parc du Mugel botanical garden

Tips & Advice

Bring plenty of water (2-3 liters per person) and sun protection - there's little shade on most trails and no facilities in remote calanques
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip as trails can be steep, rocky, and slippery, especially near cliff edges
Check fire risk levels and access restrictions before visiting - many trails close during high-risk periods in summer
Start early in the day (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds, secure parking, and hike in cooler temperatures
Consider taking a boat tour from Marseille or Cassis to see multiple calanques and avoid strenuous hikes, especially in hot weather

Tours & Activities at Calanques National Park