2025 Calanques National Park Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

South of France by Car : From Hilltop Villages to Sea Cliffs Exploring the South of France by car was the perfect blend of charm, nature, and coastal magic. I started in the stunning hilltop village of Gordes, passed through the lavender-filled fields near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and admired the views at Verdon Gorge. A detour to Ventimiglia added a fun cross-border touch, before finishing the journey with the breathtaking Calanques of Marseille. Travel tip : Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy golden hour at each scenic spot. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop wherever beauty calls—trust me, it happens often in this region! #SouthOfFrance #RoadTripFrance #Calanques #VerdonGorge #Gordes #Moustiers #Ventimiglia #HiddenGemsFrance #TripMoments

#outdooradventure Calanques National Park is a coastal paradise that merges rugged limestone cliffs with the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. Located between Marseille and Cassis, this park offers incredible hiking trails with dramatic sea views, as well as kayaking opportunities to explore hidden coves and beaches. Rock climbers will find the steep cliffs an exciting challenge. The turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling, making the park a favorite among water sports enthusiasts. Calanques National Park’s stunning natural beauty, combined with its wealth of adventurous activities, makes it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

#beachtime A visit to the Calanque beaches, located in the beautiful Calanques National Park of southern France, offers stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Here are some travel notes for your trip: ### 1. **Getting There** - **Location**: The Calanques are a series of rocky inlets along the Mediterranean coastline, primarily between the cities of Marseille and Cassis. - **Transportation**: Public transportation (bus, train) is available, but renting a car is often more convenient for accessing more remote calanques. - **Boat Tours**: A great way to experience the Calanques is by boat, where you can view the dramatic cliffs from the water. - **Hiking**: There are various hiking trails leading to the calanques, with some being more challenging than others. Popular trails depart from Marseille (e.g., the hike to Calanque de Sugiton) and from Cassis. ### 2. **Top Calanques to Visit** - **Calanque de Sugiton**: A beautiful and relatively accessible calanque with turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. - **Calanque d'En-Vau**: Known for its deep waters and steep cliffs, this is one of the most picturesque calanques. Be prepared for a more challenging hike if you're on foot. - **Calanque de Port-Miou**: The least rugged of the calanques, this one features calm waters and is often less crowded. - **Calanque de Morgiou**: A quieter spot, perfect for a more tranquil experience. ### 3. **Activities** - **Swimming and Snorkeling**: The water is crystal-clear and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Bring your gear, or rent from local shops. - **Kayaking and Paddleboarding**: You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the coves at your own pace. - **Hiking**: The trails to the calanques range from easy to challenging. Some paths can be rocky and steep, so wear appropriate footwear. ### 4. **Best Time to Visit** - **Weather**: The best time to visit the Calanques is during the spring and early autumn (April to June and September to October). The weather is pleasant, and the beaches are not overcrowded. - **Avoiding Crowds**: July and August can be very crowded, especially on weekends. If you visit during these months, try to get there early in the morning. ### 5. **Essential Tips** - **Prepare for the Heat**: The sun can be intense, especially in the summer, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and carry plenty of water. - **Respect Nature**: The Calanques are a protected area. Be mindful of local regulations, avoid littering, and stay on marked trails. - **Pack Light**: If hiking, pack light but bring essentials like snacks, water, a swimsuit, and a camera. - **Safety**: Be cautious on the steep and rocky paths. Some areas can be tricky, and it’s important to be aware of the terrain. ### 6. **Accommodation** - **Marseille**: Offers a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels. - **Cassis**: A charming town with picturesque views, perfect for a more relaxed stay. - **Camping**: There are campgrounds nearby, especially for those who enjoy nature. ### 7. **Nearby Attractions** - **Cassis Village**: A lovely town with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a relaxed vibe. Don’t miss the local seafood restaurants. - **The Calanques National Park**: Explore more of the park’s trails, cliffs, and secluded beaches. These travel notes will help you plan a memorable and enjoyable visit to the Calanque beaches!

#100 Travel Style A travelogue of the South of France in May 2024 It was a very good season, and the weather was good and comfortable throughout the trip, so it was recommended by the French. It was also nice that the sunset was late at 9:30 p.m., so it was easy to be active. This time, it's Marseille edition I would like to tell you about the charm of the Calanques♪ Boats also enter the cove, but it seems that you cannot land there. I'm not sure about the toilets, but there was a small hut on the beach, so I think that's the toilet. (I'm sorry if I'm wrong) We used the toilet in the restaurant. The structure is reminiscent of a beach hut, and there is only one place, so customers are constantly using it, and if you go at the wrong time, there will be a long line I really felt the gratitude of the toilets I arrived at the Calanques around 12:00 and left at 18:00 I spent 6 hours in the Calanques. The Calanques is a special place with a spectacular view I had a valuable experience that I would not have been able to have if I had come alone. I'm grateful to all my acquaintances.