Take advantage of the arrival of fine weather by diving into the clear waters of La Ciotat’s most beautiful calanques!
Take the road south and stop off in a little corner of paradise just a few kilometers from Marseille: the calanques of La Ciotat. Birthplace of the cinema, this seaside resort is best known for its varied landscape and sublime coastline. From its colorful old port to its powder-soft cliffs tumbling gracefully into azure waters, not forgetting its many parks and gardens. The pearl of the south is sure to delight!
Also known for its range of sporting and water sports activities, it is one of the gateways to the famous Parc national des Calanques. Are you dreaming of a gentle break on the water’s edge, surrounded by immense cliffs? Would you like to discover the region’s underwater magnificence? Put on your swimsuits, here’s a selection of La Ciotat’s most beautiful calanques.
1. Calanque de Figuerolles
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Boris Stroujko
- Plus: The eponymous hotel-restaurant
Nestled in a rocky yet verdant landscape, the aptly named « fig garden » is an idyllic spot immortalized time and again by renowned filmmakers and painters. Descend the 87 steps from the parking lot to reach the sublime pebble beach. Admire this breathtaking setting where ochre cliffs plunge magnificently into turquoise waters to the delight of your eyes.
Ideal for lazy days with friends or family, it’s also a great spot for diving. Put on your flippers, mask and snorkel, and set off to explore the richness of the seabed. You’ll leave with nothing but stars in your eyes.
Beware: in summer, the Calanque de Figuerolles is a victim of its own success. Many tourists want to take advantage of its atypical setting.
2. Calanque du Mugel
Photo credit: Shutterstock – voyageur8
- Plus: the Mugel park
The largest calanque in La Ciotat, Le Mugel comprises not one but two pebble beaches: Calanque du grand Mugel and Calanque du petit Mugel. Protected from the Mistral by the Bec de l’Aigle rock, this little haven of peace boasts a breathtaking view over the green island. Enjoy the freshness of its translucent waters and its almost tropical flora. Or take a stroll through its park, classified as a « Remarkable Garden », where lush vegetation awaits you.
Stroll in the shade of oaks and pines, glide between bamboos and laurel trees, then let yourself be enchanted by the sweet scent of wild flowers and citrus fruits. When it comes to water sports, you’re spoilt for choice. From diving to canoeing and paddling, you’re sure to have a great time.
Ile Verte creeks
- Plus: its historic remains
Nestled off the coast of La Ciotat, like a block of emerald emerging from the translucent waters, Île Verte is the only wooded island in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Accessible in 15 minutes by shuttle from La Ciotat’s Vieux Port, you can discover the island’s flora and some of its secrets.
Marked by history, particularly the Second World War, the island is also known for its turquoise waters, where you can swim for hours on end. And just as well, there are no less than three calanques de La Ciotat on the island where you can put down your towels.
3. Calanque Saint-Pierre
Photo credit: Wikipedia – davric
The Calanque Saint-Pierre is the one you’ll land on. Its pebble beach is right next to the pontoon and the Chez Louisette restaurant. It’s also close to the start of a 2-kilometer signposted path. This trail takes you around the island to discover the various ruins of military buildings, including Fort Saint-Pierre on the highest point of Île Verte.
4. Calanque de Seynerolles
Photo credit: Instagram – valerie_bcm
After a walk full of surprises, head for the island’s only sandy beach: the Calanque de Seynerolles. Head south and you’ll find it lined with pine and palm trees. With its picture-postcard setting, it has everything to seduce visitors.
Dive into its transparent waters and watch the magnificent ballet of colorful fish. A unique privilege, found only in La Ciotat’s most beautiful creeks.
Attention: First come, first settled. Seynerolles is very popular with tourists, who quickly take it by storm.
5. La Plageolle
Photo credit: Instagram – m_n_n
The smallest of La Ciotat’s calanques, and perhaps even of La Ciotat, La Plageolle is no less splendid. Nestled in a corner of the island, it has the air of a confidential spot.
With a very small capacity, only a privileged few can enjoy its pebble beach and crystal-clear water. If you’re one of those lucky few, take the time to admire the sun caressing the water and the various species moving beautifully beneath the surface.