Head to the calanques
Local
Have you decided to pay us a visit at Château Gassier? If so, it’s well worth making a little detour to one of Provence’s hidden gems: the calanques. The calanques overlook the Mediterranean coastline and offer breathtaking views of the sea. In winter and summer alike they are surprisingly easy to access, even for families with children. We’ve got a few tips here for you!
A closer look at the beautiful calanques!
Formed by natural phenomenon and shaped by the wind, the sea and the rain over the course of 120 million years, the calanques are a true work of art and unlike anything you ever will have seen before. The most famous in the South of France are the Sormiou and Podestat calanques in Marseille and the Notre Dame calanque in Agay. They are accessible by foot and are well loved year-round by locals and tourists alike.
Spending a few hours, a morning or even longer discovering the calanques is an unforgettable experience. Walking, hiking, admiring, taking a dip in the heavenly waters that lie beneath the limestone cliffs… A little piece of paradise awaits you with its crystal clear waters just a few kilometers from Château Gassier.
The Sormiou calanque in Marseille
The Sormiou calanque is the largest in Marseille. This timeless and preserved spot will take you aback with its natural beauty. Its magnificent waters are ideal for those who enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving and the views across the sea are nothing short of magical. You may even see some rock climbers daring to scale these impressive cliff faces. And why not make the most of the trip to try out the Via Cordata? This high ropes course will be sure to get your blood pumping while you admire the beautiful surroundings of Sormiou.
This calanque is easily accessible year round and fully deserves a detour whether it is by yourself, with your family or in the company of your friends.
The Notre Dame calanque in Agay
The Notre Dame calanque is situated in the commune of Agay which borders the Var and Alpes-Maritimes departments. It lies in the very heart of the Estérel mountain range and is characteristic of the region with its mix of sand and small red pebbles. It really is a sight to behold and the perfect place to relax and unwind.
The little haven of peace that is the Notre Dame calanque is very easily accessible as it only takes five minutes to walk down the stairs and pathway that leads from the road to the calanque itself.
Visit the calanques: where, why and how?
The Marseille and Agay calanques can be accessed by foot, kayak, boat or even paddle board. If you have the chance to visit Provence out of season, when the tourists and intense heat have left the scene, then the experience will be even more unforgettable.
So are you ready to pay a visit to the breathtakingly beautiful calanques of our region? Open your eyes and let yourself be swept away by their natural beauty. And of course don’t forget to pay us a visit at Château Gassier on your way there or way back!
Let's respect our creeks and preserved paths by not leaving. Any waste behind while exploring this magical landscape.