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The calanques of La Ciotat are the sort of place you’d like to keep all to yourself. With crystal-clear waters, red limestone cliffs and secluded coves, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable day out!
But where to start? Which ones should I visit? How do I get there?
We’ve got all the information you need: the must-see calanques, how to get there, things to do and top tips for planning your visit.
And if you’re staying at YouCamp, a campsite near Marseille, you’re in the perfect spot, less than 30 minutes from La Ciotat!
The must-see calanques to explore in La Ciotat
The Calanques of La Ciotat form part of the Calanques National Park, a protected natural area stretching between Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat.
Two calanques are directly accessible from the town: Le Mugel and Figuerolles.
The Figuerolles cove
This is the best-known of La Ciotat’s calanques. Its red limestone cliffs, turquoise waters and pebble beach make it a very popular spot. You reach it via a flight of 87 steps leading down from the car park. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkelling or kayaking!
Please note: it can get very busy in the height of summer, so it’s best to go early!
Mugel Cove
The Mugel, the largest cove in La Ciotat, consists of two pebble beaches. It offers stunning views of Île Verte and a botanical garden designated a ‘Jardin remarquable’ (Remarkable Garden) to explore right next door.
Sheltered from the mistral by the Bec de l’Aigle rock, it’s a great choice for families!
Île Verte Cove
About fifteen minutes by shuttle bus from the Old Port of La Ciotat, Île Verte is home to three calanques: Saint-Pierre, Seynerolles and La Plageolle. Seynerolles is the island’s only sandy beach and is very popular with swimmers!
La Plageolle, a quieter spot, doesn’t get many visitors: a real treat when you’re there!
How do I get to the Calanques of La Ciotat?
| Cove | Car | Bus | Useful information |
| Figuerolles | Parking nearby | Line 30, stop less than 500 m away | 87 steps down to the beach |
| Mugel | On-site parking | Bus route 30, ‘Mugel’ stop | Walk (20 minutes’ walk from the Tasse car park) |
| Île Verte | ✗ | ✗ | Boat shuttle from the Old Port, approx. 15 mins |
Explore the Calanques by boat from La Ciotat
To explore the calanques from the sea, the company Les Amis des Calanques offers excursions departing from Port Vieux in La Ciotat.
There are four routes available:
- Route 1: Figuerolles — Le Mugel, Négue Fume, Anse de Gaméou, Figuerolles, Île Verte, Cap Canaille Cliffs — 45 mins — €18
- Tour 2: En-Vau — From La Ciotat to Cassis — 1½ hours — €27
- Tour 3: Morgiou — From La Ciotat to Marseille — 2 hours — €31
- Tour 4: Sormiou — From La Ciotat to Sormiou via Cassis and Marseille — 2½ hours — €34
Children under 4 travel free of charge, and a €6 discount applies to children under 12! Departures run daily, subject to weather conditions and a minimum of 15 passengers.
Practical tips before you set off
The Calanques of La Ciotat form part of the Calanques National Park, a protected natural area. Access to certain sites may be regulated or restricted depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Please check for any restrictions in force before you set off.
A few good habits to adopt:
- Make sure you bring water, a cap and sun cream
- Make sure you arrive early, especially in summer
- Don’t leave anything behind – take your rubbish with you
- Please respect the marine flora and fauna
- If you’re travelling by boat, please remember to book in advance and arrive 30 minutes before departure
When you stay at YouCamp Marseille, you’ll be close to the Calanques of La Ciotat and all their natural wonders. It’s the perfect base for exploring Provence without having to worry about the logistics. Book your stay now!