Fewer crowds, blooming landscapes, and ideal temperatures for hiking—spring is without a doubt the best time to enjoy the calanques!
Here is a selection of the most beautiful calanques to visit between March and June.
5 Calanques to Discover in Spring
1. Calanque d’En-Vau – Cassis
A true gem of stone nestled between towering white cliffs, En-Vau offers a breathtaking setting. In spring, the trail remains manageable without excessive heat, and the beach is still relatively quiet.
Take advantage of the peaceful surroundings for a picnic in the heart of nature. Be sure to respect the environment and carry out all your waste.
En-Vau is a paradise for photographers. The contrast between the white cliffs and the turquoise waters provides stunning photo opportunities.
Access: From the Col de la Gardiole or Port-Miou (sturdy footwear recommended).
Spring highlight: Clear views, vibrant colors, tranquil atmosphere.
2. Calanque du Mugel – La Ciotat
Just a short distance from downtown La Ciotat, this calanque nestled beside a botanical park is a small paradise between the sea and lush vegetation.
The Calanque du Mugel is easily accessible on foot from La Ciotat’s town center—around a 20-minute walk. Parking is available nearby, or you can take bus line 30 to the Mugel stop.
The calanque includes two beaches—Petite and Grande Mugel—both lined with colorful pebbles. From the shore, enjoy panoramic views of Île Verte and the Bec de l’Aigle massif, which shelters the cove from the wind.
The Mugel Park, just above the calanque, is a remarkable botanical garden where you can explore diverse tropical flora including cacti, bamboo, and aromatic plants.
Access: On foot from La Ciotat’s harbor, through Mugel Park.
Spring highlight: Exceptional blooms in the park, crystal-clear waters.
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3. Calanque de Sugiton – Marseille
A favorite among hikers, Calanque de Sugiton offers a spectacular panorama of secluded coves and fragrant pine forests. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic with a sea view.
The hike begins at the Luminy university campus. You can get there by taking Marseille’s RTM B1 bus line to the stop “Luminy – PN des Calanques.” The trail begins at the end of the line.
Follow the shaded yellow-marked path through the preserved Luminy area. After about 30 minutes, you’ll reach the Sugiton pass. From there, take the red-marked trail on the left.
For a breathtaking view, veer off the red trail to reach the Sugiton belvedere. This viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama of Calanque de Morgiou and the Mediterranean.
To descend to the calanque, retrace your steps and follow the dotted red trail. The descent can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
The calanque consists of two small coves surrounded by sheer cliffs. Enjoy a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
Access: From Luminy (Marseille) via a well-marked trail.
Spring highlight: Relative calm, stunning views over rocky islets.
4. Calanque de Port-Pin – Cassis
Often considered the little sister of En-Vau, Port-Pin is an easily accessible calanque surrounded by pine trees reaching down to the sea. Its mix of sand and pebble beach makes it a perfect stop for a swim—even in spring if you’re brave enough!
The most popular trail starts at Calanque de Port-Miou and follows the coastal “chemin des Douaniers,” offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs. The path is well marked.
Part of the Calanques National Park, Port-Pin is a protected area—be sure to respect the local fauna and flora, leave no trash behind, and keep noise to a minimum.
Access: A 30-minute walk from Port-Miou. Be cautious on the descent to the beach, as some parts can be steep or slippery.
Spring highlight: Shaded, peaceful, and very accessible.
5. Calanque de Figuerolles – La Ciotat
Less known than its Marseille neighbors, Figuerolles charms visitors with its wild ambiance and striking red puddingstone cliffs. This calanque features unique rock formations, including the famous “Rocher du Capucin,” which from a nearby viewpoint resembles a dog’s head—hence the nickname Tête de Chien.
Once planted with fig trees—figuerolles in Provençal—the area is home to classic Mediterranean vegetation.
This calanque has inspired many artists, including Georges Braque. In summer, you might spot painters capturing the beauty of the landscape.
Located less than 30 minutes on foot from La Ciotat’s town center, Figuerolles offers a scenic setting and a unique experience. Access is via a staircase, adding a touch of adventure to your visit.
Access: On foot from the old port of La Ciotat.
The calanque is easy to reach from town—just descend 87 steps directly to the pebble beach.
Spring highlight: Golden light on red cliffs, complete tranquility.
Tips for a Perfect Spring Outing:
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Start early: to enjoy morning light and avoid afternoon winds.
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Come prepared: wear good walking shoes, bring a hat, water, and a light windbreaker.
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Respect nature: don’t pick flowers and stay on the marked trails.
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Check local conditions: access to some calanques may be restricted depending on weather and fire risk.