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The Route des Crêtes

The Route des Crêtes is a long and winding road linking La Ciotat to Cassis and is an integral part of the Calanques National Park.

A breathtaking view

Viewing points have been created to allow you to admire the exceptional panoramic views over the Bay of La Ciotat and the old town with Île Verte in the background. Further on, you will see the Calanques massif rising majestically before plunging into the sea. On a clear day, you can see the chain of Marseille’s islands.

A nice walk

Along the way, you will see spectacular rock formations, such as Le Pont Naturel, a natural archway that has been formed by erosion, and the Dent du Chat, an amazing stone arch. Finally, you will reach the Semaphore which dates from 1791 and is located at 349m above sea level. It is a military base that controls navigation and ensures the safety of pleasure craft.

The Coeur d'Honoré

At the beginning of the Route des Crêtes, you can see the Coeur d’Honoré. This 7-hectare plot of land is laid out in ‘restanques’ or terraces with the ruins of the dwelling and its heart-shaped enclosure wall. Honoré was the owner at the beginning of the 19th century, hence its name.

Main panoramic viewpoints

Identity card
  • Inauguration year : 1964
  • Towns served : La Ciotat and Cassis
  • Highest point : La Grande Tête – 399m
  • Number of kilometers : 17 km
  • Main access : Av. Marcel Camusso

The hikes

around the Route des Crêtes

Did you know?

  • The Route des Crêtes has been the location of many film shoots
  • Stéphane Rotenberg mentioned it in his book Les plus belles routes de France

Good to know

Don’t forget to check if the Route des Crêtes is open by visiting our Access to Massifs page!

To discover

in the Calanques National Park
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