Calanques National Park, France (with Map & Photos)

Calanques National Park

A true gem in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the Calanques National Park is famous for its landscapes, its exceptional biodiversity and its cultural heritage and. With 8,500 hectares of extension, its land area is divided into three municipalities, Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat, while the aquatic area includes 43 5,000 hectares. It is the only national park in Europe, terrestrial, marine and peripheral at the same time, and it is home to an incredible biodiversity, with about 140 terrestrial species (animals and plants) protected, and more than 60 heritage marine species.

Calanques National Park 2
Calanques National Park

The landscape of this magnificent territory strongly attracts lovers of exploration and hiking. Its settings are absolutely unique, with littoral massifs cut out by calanques, an underwater canyon and numerous islands. Among these is the one that houses the famous castle of If, a 16th century fortress popularized by Alexander Dumas in the novel The Count of Monte Cristo.

Calanques National Park 3
Calanques National Park

Strolling through the Calanques massif means exploring breathtaking landscapes and enclaves, a coastline not far from the urban area, but where wild coves alternate with nature trails ideal for walking. Along the way, you will not fail to marvel at the majesty of the calcareous cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The calanques of Devenson, En-Vau, Morgiou, Sormiou or Sugiton, to name a few, are magnificent examples. A visit to the Calanques Park allows you to enjoy a swim in crystal clear waters, contemplate the local fauna and flora and practice sports activities such as hiking, climbing, scuba diving, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding.

Calanques National Park Map