Les Calanques

The  Calanques of Marseille , also called  “lo Pòrt Vièlh”  in Provençal, are a natural wonder nestled between  Marseille  and  Cassis . This exceptional and unique landscape is a must-see in Marseille! Between pebble and fine sand beaches, small coves and turquoise water, this biodiversity setting looks like a postcard. It is the perfect place to sunbathe, explore the seabed, or even indulge in some water activities such as kayaking. Whether you want to hike or simply enjoy nature and fresh water, this magnificent place will satisfy you. 
What are the Calanques?
A Calanque is a very particular geological formation made up of limestone rocks.
The Calanques massif is a highly protected national park, which extends from Marseille to Cassis for approximately 20 km.
There are no fewer than  26 more or less important Calanques  (25 in the commune of Marseille and 1 in the commune of Cassis).
Exceptional underwater flora Fauna and flora are omnipresent in the Calanques National Park massif.
You can come across octopuses, anemones, sea urchins, sea bream, mullet but also sublets, oblades, and even groupers.
The turquoise waters reveal a sandy bottom, which contrasts with the indigo color created by the Posidonia meadows, aquatic plants which flower and shelter many species.
Which cove to discover? Between crystal clear water, steep cliffs and fine sandy beaches, there is something for everyone.
Whether you decide to explore the Calanques National Park, or rather the coastline of the Côte Bleue, you will never stop being captivated by the beauty of the landscapes.
Discover the calanques of Marseille and enjoy the biodiversity, beaches, water activities and the Cosquer cave in this protected national park.
Thecalanques ​of Marseille are a natural wonder nestled between Marseille and Cassis. This exceptional and unique landscape is a must-see in Marseille! Between pebble and fine sand beaches, small coves and turquoise water, this biodiversity setting looks like a postcard. It is the perfect place to sunbathe, explore the seabed or even indulge in some water activities such as kayaking. Whether you want to hike or simply enjoy nature and fresh water, this magnificent place will satisfy you. What are the Calanques? The Calanques are very particular geological formations made up of limestone rocks. 
These are large rocky coves which form a narrow recess entering the land. There are many of them in the Mediterranean. The Calanques massif extends from Marseille to Cassis for approximately 20 km and has no fewer than 26 more or less important Calanques (25 in the commune of Marseille and 1 in the commune of Cassis). 
Some are easy to access, others much less so, but what is certain is that it is a unique place not to be missed under any circumstances when you come to Marseille! Exceptional underwater flora Fauna and flora are omnipresent in the Calanques National Park massif. We often forget to mention underwater vegetation... 
And yet! It can be compared to an underwater garden as its diversity is great. You can come across octopuses, anemones, sea urchins, sea bream, mullets, but also sublets, oblades and even groupers. The turquoise waters reveal a sandy bottom, which contrasts with the indigo color created by the Posidonia meadows, aquatic plants that flower and shelter many species. National Park regulations limit boat use and exclude all types of fishing. Which cove to discover? Although different, 
the calanques of Marseille are all more beautiful than the others. Some require more physical effort to access, but it's definitely worth it! Between crystal clear water, steep cliffs and fine sandy beaches, there is something for everyone. Whether you decide to explore the Calanques National Park or rather the coastline of the Côte Bleue, you will never stop being captivated by the beauty of the landscapes.