A wonderful setting in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the Calanques National Park is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage. Covering 8,500 hectares, its land portion is spread over three municipalities, which are Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat, while its sea portion accounts for 43,500 hectares. The only national park in Europe to include land, sea and peri-urban areas, it is a place of incredible biodiversity, with nearly 140 protected terrestrial animal and plant species as well as more than 60 marine heritage species!
The mosaic of scenery contained within this magnificent territory is extremely attractive for visitors who love sightseeing and hikes. Its landscapes are absolutely unique, with its coastal massifs interspersed with calanques (narrow, steep-walled inlets), its submarine canyon, and its many islands, including the island of the famous If Castle, a 16th-century fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas in his novel The Count of Monte Cristo.
Walking through the Calanques massif is a journey of discovery through breathtaking landscapes, a coastline where urban life is never far away, but where the wild and secret coves alternate with nature trails that offer many wonderful walks. Along the way, you will be amazed by the majesty of these limestone cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The Calanques of Devenson, En-Vau, Morgiou, Sormiou or Sugiton, to name but a few, are magnificent examples of this. Visiting the Calanques Park is also a great way to experience the joys of swimming in crystal clear waters, admire the local fauna and flora, and enjoy sports activities such as hiking, climbing, scuba diving, kayaking or stand up paddleboarding!
