Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques)

Snorkelers and scuba divers are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of marine life during underwater excursions to Monte Cristo, home of the prison that inspired Alexander Dumas' work of classic literature. Travelers without the desire to go underwater can explore the park with ease on an electric bike tour or fishing trip. Keep your eyes peeled for daredevils abseiling or diving from the colossal cliffs.

If you're short on time in the treasured French Riviera, consider combining sightseeing tours of Marseille and Cassis with a visit to Calanques National Park. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in the park's crystal-clear waters with a two-day scuba diving course.

• Most tours provide round-trip transport from your accommodation in Marseille, Cassis, or the Aix-en-Provence area.

• Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to the park.

• It's best to wear comfortable shoes fit for outdoor exploration.

• Note that camping and motorized water sports are not allowed in the protected area.

Although nestled between popular Marseille and Cassis, Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) is not easy to access by public transport or without a guide. The best way to visit the national park is by boat from Port de Cassis (cruises depart every 90 minutes daily) or on a day trip from central Marseille. If arriving by car, be aware that the closest beach is about a one-hour hike from available parking lots.

The most popular time to visit the French Riviera is during the summer months of June to September, when temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s F (20s C) and rain is nowhere to be found. However, if you prefer cooler climates and want to miss the crowds, May and June are the ideal months to head to the park.

The French word "calanque" translates as a narrow, rocky inlet with steep walls found on the Mediterranean coast. Calanques National Park is made up of a series of these inlets, known separately as Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d'En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Sugiton. Showcasing marbled-blue waters and dramatic, craggy cliffs, the rocky promontories are best discovered on a long hike or by kayak.

The main attractions in Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) include its extensive network of well-marked hiking trails that wind through stunning cliffs and offer panoramic coastal views. Beyond hiking, the park is renowned for its access to vibrant underwater ecosystems, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.

The easiest way to reach Calanques National Park from Marseille is to join a tour that includes round-trip transportation. While it’s not a long journey by car, driving yourself is not typically recommended as parking is limited and the walk from the car parks to the closest beach is around one hour. Alternatively, there are various bus routes from Marseille that drop you at the park entrances—check where you want to start before choosing which bus route to take.

The best time of year to visit Calanques National Park is during the spring, ideally in April or May. During these months, crowd numbers are lower than the peak summer months of July and August, and the weather is milder, too. Alternatively the beginning of fall (September) is a good time to visit.

One of the best hiking trails in Calanques National Park is the Calanques de Cassis trail, starting near Port-Miou and extending along the coastline to Port-Pin. This popular day hike offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, rugged cliffs, and picturesque coves, making it a must for outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, there are several guided tours available for Calanques National Park. Some of these begin in Marseille and combine a visit to the park with the fisherman village Cassis. It’s possible to explore the park on guided hikes, electric bike tours, kayaking tours, or sailing tours.

Calanques National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, with over 80 bird species, including the Bonelli's eagle. The park is also home to a wide variety of reptiles, including the ocellated lizard—one of the largest lizards in Europe—and the small nocturnal gecko. Nearby, there are over 60 marine heritage species in the water.