The best paddle trips in Marseille and Provence

Head for the south of France for your next vacation. Treat yourself to a stay at a campsite near Marseille, and make the most of this little interlude with family, couple or friends. Thanks to its geographical location, this open-air establishment allows you to indulge in one of the most popular water sports: paddleboarding. In fact, this 4-star campsite is located very close to some of the best paddleboarding in Marseille and Provence.

The Calanques

The Calanques, located between Marseille and Cassis, is a coastal national park where you can paddle. There are a number of options for paddling in the Calanques:

• From the port of Callelongue to Marseilleveyre via the Mounine cove,
• from Sormiou calanque to Morgiou.

Once you’ve got your board, you can set off on an adventure to explore coves and caves, and discover the marine flora and fauna.

You can rent a paddle board from one of the many rental stores in the area. If you’re not familiar with this activity, it’s a good idea to take a few lessons with an experienced instructor. This professional will teach you and introduce you to the basic techniques. He or she will also provide you with safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Blue Coast

Situated on the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Martigues, the Côte Bleue is packed with paddle-friendly spots. Whether solo or with a group of people, spend a day or more exploring the local paradise.

The Calanques of the Côte Bleue between Martigues and Carry-le-Rouet are among the most popular destinations for paddleboarding. The scenery is magnificent, with turquoise waters and accessible seabeds.

Along the coast, you’ll be charmed by the secluded coves, the caves – particularly the swifts’ cave, a haven for many species of birds – and the crystal-clear waters that invite you to take a refreshing break. Paddleboarding is just one of the activities that allow you to discover the natural beauty of the Côte Bleue from a whole new angle.

La Pointe Rouge

Located on the city’s southern coast, with calm waters and little sea traffic, the Pointe Rouge is an ideal spot for paddleboarding. To get all the equipment you need, all you have to do is approach a specialist paddleboard equipment retailer. Rental is generally by the day. You can also find paddle lessons for beginners or guided sessions for the more experienced.

What’s more, the Pointe Rouge offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Marseilles coastline. You can also take advantage of the restaurants and cafés lining the beach to recharge your batteries after your paddling session.

La Ciotat and Cassis

Just 30 kilometers from Marseille are La Ciotat and Cassis, two towns with magnificent beaches easily accessible from their city centers. Clubs offer paddle and kayak rentals from the main beaches for coastal excursions. Places to paddle or kayak on the sea include :

• The port of La Ciotat: for a paddle session in a more protected environment.
• Port-Miou beach in Cassis: calm waters and magnificent views of the surrounding cliffs and coves.