Parc National Des Calanques La Ciotat 3Parc National Des Calanques La Ciotat 3
©Parc National Des Calanques La Ciotat 3

The Calanques National Park

Created on April 18, 2012, the Calanques National Park is the 10th French national park and the first in Europe that is terrestrial, marine and peri-urban. Shared between the cities of Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat, it is known worldwide for its sublime landscapes, but also for its remarkable biodiversity and cultural wealth.

An outstanding natural heritage

Linking La Ciotat and Cassis, the Soubeyranes cliffs are a mecca for mineralogists. These majestic cliffs overlooking the sea are the highest coastal cliffs in France and offer spectacular views from the Route des Crêtes. These ochre-orange cliffs are made of pudding-stone (pebble conglomerate), unlike the Calanques massif, which is formed of white limestone.

More information on the regulations

Smart tips!

  • How to reach the calanques?
    • On foot: Go along the quays of the Old Port then continue on Avenue Victor Giraud and finally take Avenue des Calanques to access the Calanque du Mugel. For the Calanque de Figuerolles, take rue Lapérouse, then avenue Cardinal Maurin and finally, avenue de Figuerolles. Duration: 20 minutes from the Tourist Office.
    • By bus: Take line 30 at the bus station and get off at the stops “Mugel” or “Figuerolles”. Fare : 0,90€ the journey.
    • By car : Mugel and Figuerolles parking lots allow you to park in the immediate vicinity of the calanques (the first two hours of parking are free all year).
  • What to do if the calanques are closed?

    The regulation that limits access to the Calanques, due to the risk of fire, applies only by prefectural decree.

    In the event that the Calanques are closed, La Ciotat benefits from many other sites that would satisfy the many visitors to frequent the resort for its natural side. These include the Voie Douce, the Domaine de la Tour Park, the Jardin de la Ville and the seaside promenade which are permanently accessible.

  • Are there any activities for children?

    The Mugelbotanical garden has the particularity of having a children’s playground that delights the little ones. Within the garden, the Atelier Bleu CPIE Côte Provençale association offers many activities related to the discovery of the environment and the marine environment and intended for children.

  • Can we practice canoeing in the calanques?

    Navigation and canoe landing are allowed in the Calanques du Grand Mugel and Figuerolles. A ban applies in the Calanque du Petit Mugel and Anse du Sec.

Regulations in the calanques

The Calanques National Park is a protected area, that’s why it is important to respect the rules set up to protect it.

Close