Calanques National Park

Calanques National Park (Parc national des Calanques) sits in the south of France between Marseille and Cassis. The area boasts dramatic rocky inlets, azure waters and pebble beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to hike, swim and sail. 
The park is relatively large and composed of nearly 20 acres (8,500 hectares) by land and more than 100 acres (42,000 hectares) by sea. Visitors can spend their time keeping an eye out for some of the 140 land animal species and 60 marine species that live here. These creatures are protected in the park, which is the only one in Europe to contain land, marine and semi-urban areas. The calanques themselves are also main attractions and include Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d'En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin and Calanque de Sugiton.
Those looking to explore can take advantage of the many hiking trails and opportunities to cliff-dive, rock climb and mountain bike. More laid-back activities include fishing and kayaking. Those looking to hit the plage will be rewarded with warm waters and uncrowded pebble beaches. 

Practical Info

As the park is difficult to access via public transportation, the best way to see it is via boat; a cruise leaves every 90 minutes from the port of Cassis. If you choose to drive to the park, the sea is about an hour’s hike from most parking lots. When visiting, it is important to bring water, sunscreen, good shoes, a sun hat and a bathing suit and towel, if you intend to swim. Keep in mind that activities such as jet-skiing, motorized water sports and camping are prohibited.