CALANQUES NATIONAL PARK

As the first national park in Europe to be both marine and terrestrial, the Calanques National Park is among the top places to visit in Marseille. The island is known for its beautifully blended island and peri urban features. Covering around 5000 hectares of a majestic land, this national park is visible at a length of 20km on the coastline.

Calanques National Park, located on the Mediterranean coast in Marseille, France, is renowned for its breathtaking limestone cliffs and blue waters. This marine and terrestrial park stretches 20 km of shoreline, offering a paradise for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers.

The park is famous for its rare fjord-like inlets, known as calanques with an extraordinary biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna. Notably, Calanques is also popular among rock climbers because of its steep limestone cliffs. You can hike through trails of aromatic maquis shrubland, leading to panoramic views of the blue sea.

You can participate in various activities, like swimming and snorkelling in remote coves, or take boat cruises to discover hidden beaches. Old cave paintings and historical sites from prehistoric times highlight the park's cultural significance.

Calanques National Park offers adventure and serenity, making it an ideal place for outdoor sports, nature photography, and close encounters with the raw beauty of the Mediterranean.

Highlights

• The first of its kind national park covers both land and sea under its protected area, being the only national park in Europe to do so.
• Explore the seaside of the national park is home to about 60 different marine species including sea bream, dolphins, whales, and more. 
• Relish natural lush landscapes of the national park include 900 different plant species that cover the majority of the land of the national park. 
• The National Park focuses on the sustainable development of the territory and protecting the wildlife as well as the natural vegetation of the Mediterranean Sea.
• This National park is also a popular addition to the list for nature lovers who are wondering what to visit in Marseille during their trip. 

How To Reach

By car: Calanques National Park is approximately 15 km from Marseille city centre and you can easily reach there in about 35 minutes via Tunnel Prado-Carénage. However, please note that this route has tolls and restricted usage/private roads.

By bus: To reach Calanques National Park from Marseille, take Bus No. 21 from "Castellane" or "Rond-Point du Prado" to the "Luminy" terminus. The journey covers approximately 12 km and takes around 30-40 minutes. From Luminy, follow the marked trails to enter the park.

Best Time To Visit

Calanques National Park is a year-round destination which offers a distinctive experience on each visit.

Best day of the week: Consider visiting any time during the weekdays to avoid the busy crowds. Weekdays offer a more tranquil experience than on weekdays.

Best time of the day: Plan your visit in the early morning or in the late afternoon to witness spectacular vistas. Additionally, visiting during these times offers you the opportunity to explore the park in a crowd-free environment.

Other Essential Information

• Wear sturdy hiking boots for navigating rocky and uneven terrain, ensuring comfort and safety on the trails.
• Carry plenty of water, especially during summer months, as there are few sources of drinking water within the park.
• Apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect against the heat.
• Observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb animals or plants to preserve the park's biodiversity.
• Pack all trash and follow the "leave no trace" policy to keep the park clean and pristine.
• Check the weather forecast before your visit; strong winds can make hiking and boating dangerous.
• Bring a map and a GPS device or download offline maps, as mobile signals can be weak in certain areas.
• Pack swimwear and snorkelling equipment to explore the clear, turquoise waters of the Calanques.
• Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot.
• Start your hike early in the morning and enjoy the trails with fewer crowds.