How do you get to the island?

To get to Île Verte from Port-Vieux, you’ll need to take the Aquilade shuttle (a 15-minute crossing). More information: laciotat-ileverte.com Please note: the shuttle operates from April to October. Payment is by cash only on board. You can also get there by kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the Petit Mugel cove: the island is just 600 metres from the shore!

Yes , you can board the shuttle with your dog and take a stroll with him on Île Verte without any problems.

Is there anywhere to eat on the island?

You can bring your own picnic or eat at the Île Verte Restaurant ( open every day from April to October; bookings by telephone only on 06 19 41 12 24)

What route should you take once you’re on the island?

From the Île Verte jetty, you’ll come to a flight of wooden log steps. When you reach the first trees on the way up, you can turn right towards La Plageolle , or left towards La Seynerolle (small coves where you can swim, fish, dive, etc.). If you climb to the top of the island, you’ll reach the orientation table and, a little further up, Fort Saint-Pierre , from where you can see the Bec de l’Aigle rock and the Calanque du Mugel. Back at the jetty, you’ll find yourself at Calanque Saint-Pierre , where you can stop for a bite to eat and a drink at the island’s restaurant.

How do I go to the toilet?

There are no public toilets on the island. You will need to use the toilets in the restaurant (purchase of food or drink is compulsory).

Is the island accessible to children? To people with reduced mobility?

As the paths are steep , we recommend that you do not venture there with young children (it is impossible to access the area with a pushchair) or with people with reduced mobility (the paths are not suitable).

Île Verte | La Ciotat Tourist Office

A bit of history

Until the early 19th century,agriculture wasthe mainindustry on this island. During the First World War, between 1914 and 1918, artillery units took up positions here. It was during this period that two gun turrets were erected on the hills. Four guns were unloaded at the Calanque de Saint-Pierre. But it was the Second World War, in particular, that left an indelible mark.

The island’s location made it a strategic point in the Mediterranean. Consequently, in 1943, the Germans turned Île Verte into a veritable fortified camp. They built blockhouses linked together by a network of underground tunnels. Today, the remains of the blockhouses are still there. As a testament to the war, the pine forest is dotted with craters carved out by shells.

Did you know?

In the past, Île Verte was a paradise for rabbits. These days, they have been replaced by gabians ( seagulls in Provençal), which nest there practically all year round.

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Frequently asked questions

How do you get to the island?
Are dogs allowed?
Is there anywhere to eat on the island?
What route should you take once you’re on the island?
From the Île Verte jetty, you’ll come to a flight of wooden log steps.
When you reach the first trees on the way up, you can turn right towards La Plageolle, or left towards La Seynerolle (small coves where you can swim, fish, dive, etc.).
If you climb to the top of the island, you’ll reach the orientation table and, a little further up, Fort Saint-Pierre, from where you can see the Bec de l’Aigle rock and the Calanque du Mugel.
Back at the jetty, you’ll find yourself at Calanque Saint-Pierre, where you can stop for a bite to eat and a drink at the island’s restaurant.
How do I go to the toilet?
Is the island accessible to children? To people with reduced mobility?