The calanques of La Ciotat in the Bouches du Rhône region
Looking for a change of scenery in the heart of the Mediterranean? La Ciotat’s calanques offer a spectacular backdrop of golden cliffs, fragrant pine forests and unspoilt coves. Less crowded than the calanques of Cassis in Marseille, they appeal to families in search of tranquillity and authenticity. Discover the most beautiful calanques accessible from La Ciotat, their special features, and the best ways to enjoy them with children.
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Situated to the east of the Parc national des Calanques, La Ciotat is an ideal base for exploring this unique natural heritage. Looking for a campsite near the Calanques? Stay at our 4-star campsite near La Ciotat.
Calanques de La Ciotat: hidden gems
A natural treasure nestled at the foot of the enchanting cliffs of Provence, lapped by turquoise waters and winds that sculpt the stone… The Parc national des Calanques, of incomparable beauty, stretches from Marseille to La Ciotat , via Cassis and the Frioul islands.
The calanques of La Ciotat have a special feature: poudingue. This ochre rock bears witness to the geological phenomena that created the calanques: the accumulation of sediment and limestone over several million years, followed by the appearance of the mountain range and finally the lowering of sea levels.
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- Calanque du Mugel : Just a stone’s throw from La Ciotat’s old port, this cove is surrounded by a botanical park. After a visit to the exotic garden, the calanque’s clear waters beckon you to take a dip in an absolutely heavenly setting. The Petit Mugel and Grand Mugel can be seen against the hills.
- Calanque de Figuerolles: Just beyond, in thecove of Figuerolles, the cliffs become steep and the rock red. You can see the distinctive Rocher du Capucin, so there’s no doubt about it: here we are in the calanque de Figuerolles, a breathtaking wilderness!
A true natural treasure, the calanques are surrounded by limestone cliffs and hiking trails, offering breathtaking panoramas. They represent a wild and unspoilt getaway, perfect for nature lovers. These steep coves offer crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, diving and kayaking.
The park is a delight at every turn, with nooks and crannies each more dazzling than the last, such as the calanques of Port Miou and the calanques of Cassis.
Must-do activities in the calanques of La Ciotat
Marked footpaths are the best way to explore this seaside wilderness and access La Ciotat’s calanques while preserving the integrity of a fragile environment. Following the paths through the heart of these massifs also offers a unique view of these natural landscapes, a veritable explosion of color.
The Calanque du Mugelis ideal for hiking, especially as the path leads to a lookout located 82 m above sea level:the long tour takes just 1 hour, with no particular difficulties.
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On the cliffs framing the calanques, particularly Figuerolles, climbing enthusiasts are also in heaven.
The calanques are perfect for a gentle swim or a kayak outing. Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will also find a remarkable setting for discovering exceptional marine life. The seabed in the Calanque de Figuerolles, in particular, is incredibly rich.
Authentic restaurants and accommodation in the calanques of La Ciotat
A visit to the calanques of La Ciotat is also a taste of Provencal life par excellence! There’s nothing like this picturesque setting to savour the local gastronomy and immerse yourself in the history of the area. The Chez Tania restaurant is the place to be for this, having been enthroned in the Figuerolles cove for 70 years. Here, authenticity speaks for itself, with local produce and musical evenings in summer. A restaurant also welcomes visitors to the calanque du Mugel, facing the sea. Sardinade, sliced cuttlefish, clam pasta, panisses… Provençal dishes are the kings of the menu, and the view is as beautiful as ever.
Stay at our campsite near the calanques of La Ciotat
Where to stay for easy access to La Ciotat’s calanques? Our 4* Le Ceyreste campsite is ideally located in the hills above La Ciotat, 15 minutes by car and less than half an hour by bike from the calanques. With a vacation rental in La Ciotat, explore the Figuerolles and Mugel creeks, ideal for swimming and hiking with the whole family.
Our wide range of accommodation includes fully-equipped mobile homes in the Standard, Confort, Confort Plus and Premium categories. With terrace and air conditioning, they offer the ideal setting for a vacation for two or a family.
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Nature campsites with electric hook-ups are also available for lovers of traditional camping, and Kenya tents offer the perfect compromise between the two, while still being able to easily explore La Ciotat’s calanques.
