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Introducing the Calanques National Park
Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône region between Marseille and Cassis, the Parc National des Calanques is made up of narrow calanques, high limestone cliffs, heavenly little coves and wild islands, all forming sublime landscapes with the sea as far as the eye can see…
The Parc National des Calanques covers some 8,500 hectares on land and 43,500 hectares at sea. It is home to over 900 plant species, numerous reptiles, mammals and birds on land and around 60 plant and animal species below the surface, some of which are threatened.
In ancient times, the calanques were used for fishing and stone quarrying. Quarrying evolved over the centuries, as farming and pastoral activities developed in the region. Industry took over in the 19th century, with the extraction of lime, stone and cement. It was only at the end of the 19th century that man began to appreciate the calanques for their natural beauty, thanks to the famous Excursionnistes Marseillais. The area was then gradually defended and protected, until the creation of the park in 2012.
What to do in the Calanques National Park
The site offers a wide range of activities, allowing you to discover all the facets of the park in different ways.
The main reason for coming here is to explore the landscape on foot. Indeed, hiking is the main activity in the calanques. Following the hiking trails, you’ll pass by wild coves and dreamy beaches, while discovering superb views of the sea and islands in the distance from the cliff tops. Some, of course, simply head for a beach and relax for a few hours, far from the pollution of the city…
Climbing is also one of the most popular activities in the calanques. The high, white cliffs are the perfect place to climb! The park offers a wide range of routes for all levels.
Some road trips are also possible on mountain bikes, even if cycling is prohibited in certain areas.
Discovering the calanques by sea is an exhilarating experience! Boat tours are available from nearby ports, but sports enthusiasts and budding adventurers will prefer to rent a kayak or paddle for a half or full day. Exploring the park from calanque to calanque is bound to be a highlight of your camping vacation in the Bouches-du-Rhône. You can also explore the underwater world of Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s beloved park by scuba diving. Several diving clubs in the region offer diving trips.
Information and advice
Exploring the Calanques National Park is a well-prepared activity. It can be a dangerous place: strong winds, blazing sun, lack of shade, sharp rocks… Walking in the Calanques is like hiking in the mountains. You’re on your own, and you’ll only find what you bring with you.
Take a good pair of walking shoes, water and sun cream. An IGN map and a charged cell phone are recommended. Check the weather forecast before you leave. And don’t forget your bathing suit and towel! Bathing in a calanque is magical.
Respect the area: smoking, picking plants, feeding animals and littering are forbidden. Stay on the marked trails.
From the campsite in Aubagne, the easiest way is to head for Cassis, from where you can enter the Calanques National Park.