So often when we talk about the South of France, the usual suspects spring to mind – the French Riviera, Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez – but if you’re looking for something a little further off the beaten path, travel just over two hours further west from the Riviera, and you’ll find a stretch of coastline that feels significantly more untouched. In early June, Maiya explored one of the South’s best-kept secrets: Parc National des Calanques, nestled just south of Marseille.
Cassis
With temperatures reaching up to 32°C even in early summer, the coastal town of Cassis was our home for the long weekend. Drenched in sunshine and awash with small pebble beaches, Cassis is a charming old fishing town, fueled by local trade – every morning saw local fishermen deliver their daily catch to local restaurants, whilst handmade straw bags, beachwear and linen clothing was a staple of the local stores.
Though an enchanting place to stay the night, our main reason for
journeying to this part of France was to explore the Parc National des Calanques, a
national park that has unparalleled beauty. Our trail began at the port of
Cassis, where we were among tourists and locals alike for the slow walk to
Port-Miou – a dock full of pristine white sailboats. As if straight out of a
postcard, swimmers tan themselves on the surrounding rocks, whilst docked
sailors take a break in the sunshine.
Parc National des Calanques
For those who are up for a challenge, the GR98 trail is one of the most rewarding scenic hikes in the area, stretching from the coastal villages of Marseilles up to the highest point – the Col du Pilon. Not only does the trail offer you the chance to walk through stunning natural pine forests with viewpoints dotted along the route, but you will find yourself scrambling up the limestone natural pathways to get to some of the most beautiful hidden bays in the Calanques National Park. My personal recommendation for any traveller would be Calanque d’En Vau or La Calanque de Port Pin – locations visited by locals and travellers alike – where you can dive, swim, paddleboard, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Marseille
After a couple of days hiking, swimming, and relaxing in Cassis, we headed back to Marseille for one final day before flying home. Marseille often gets overlooked for more popular spots along the coast, but it has a completely different energy, and feels more like Paris’ cooler, younger sibling. We stayed close to the Vieux-Port, which is the heart of the city. Boats line the harbour, and it’s surrounded by seafood restaurants, markets, and small cafés. The oldest district in the city – Le Panier – is full of winding streets, art, and little independent shops, and of course some lovely on-street bars! Plus, the train station in Marseilles offers you a whole variety of options to commute out if you’re looking to extend your trip.
So, whether you’re looking to recharge in nature, or some much needed sun & sea, the coast of Marseilles might be the perfect place to book your next flight to!
Planning a corporate trip to Provence?
