Visiting the Calanques National Park: A Natural Treasure to Protect
A flagship destination in the south of France, the Calanques—stretching between Marseille and Cassis—attract travelers year after year with their spectacular landscapes of towering cliffs and turquoise waters. This exceptional site is now designated as the Calanques National Park, created to protect its rich biodiversity.
Although people often refer to the “Calanques of Cassis,” it’s important to note that most of the iconic calanques such as En-Vau and Port-Pin are actually located within the city limits of Marseille. Only the calanque of Port-Miou officially belongs to the town of Cassis, though all of them are easily accessible from there, either on foot or by boat.
Regulated Access: Don’t Forget to Book Ahead
Due to high summer visitor numbers, access to certain calanques is now limited and requires a reservation. To avoid disappointment, it’s strongly recommended to book your slot several days in advance, especially in July and August.
Free reservations can be made on the official website of the Calanques National Park.
How to Access the Calanques?
Some calanques remain freely accessible on foot, while others—such as Calanque de Sugiton—require advance registration via the Park’s official website. Visitor numbers are deliberately restricted to help preserve the area.
If you’re driving, you can easily reach the Cassis area, where parking is available near Port-Miou, the only calanque accessible directly by road. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the park at your own pace.
.jpg)
Travel Freely with Car-2-Europe
If you’re traveling with a rental vehicle, you’ll enjoy greater flexibility to plan your day, avoid peak hours, and explore the surrounding areas in total freedom.
With a Temporary Transit contract, you can drive throughout France and even beyond, depending on your needs. This type of contract is especially popular with long-term travelers looking to discover multiple regions without limitations.
Find out more about available packages at Car-2-Europe
Protecting the Calanques: Be a Responsible Visitor
The calanques are extremely sensitive natural areas, especially in summer. The Mediterranean vegetation is particularly vulnerable to wildfires, often caused by human negligence.
Fire Risk: Stay Alert
Do not smoke in natural areas
Never light fires or barbecues
Respect temporary trail closures during periods of high heat or strong winds
Always check the latest access updates on the official park website
Overcrowding: A Real Impact
Trails can become overloaded, accelerating soil erosion
Wildlife is disturbed by noise and human presence
Litter left behind harms both land and marine ecosystems
Adopt Responsible Behavior
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon)
Take all your trash with you
Stay on marked trails
Respect the peace and quiet of the site and fellow visitors
By becoming a mindful traveler, you help protect this exceptional natural heritage. The calanques are not just a postcard-perfect destination they are a living ecosystem that deserves care.
.jpg)
What to Prepare Before Your Visit
✅ Book your access slot at least 72 hours in advance
☀️ Avoid the hottest hours of the day
Wear sturdy shoes for rugged terrain
Check for possible closures due to fire risk on the park’s official site
After the Calanques? What’s Next?
The region is full of other beautiful places to explore. From Cassis, you can continue your journey towards:
The scenic roads of the Var region
The hilltop villages of Provence, like Le Castellet or La Cadière-d’Azur
Conclusion
Plan ahead, reserve your time slot, and set out to discover one of the most stunning landscapes in France. By following the rules and adopting responsible habits, you’re helping to preserve this natural wonder for future generations.
.jpg)
Thanks for the illustrative photos Laura Ollier, T and Yu Chen Lin 育辰 on Unsplash.
