Calanques National Park, located in southern France near Marseille, is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions and things to see in Calanques National Park as a tourist:
1. Calanques: Explore the breathtaking limestone fjords, known as calanques, that stretch along the coast between Marseille and Cassis. These deep, narrow inlets are surrounded by towering cliffs and offer opportunities for hiking, swimming, and boating.
2. Calanque de Sugiton: Hike or boat to Calanque de Sugiton, one of the most scenic calanques in the park. This secluded cove features crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
3. Calanque d'En-Vau: Visit Calanque d'En-Vau, another picturesque calanque known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Accessible by boat or a challenging hike, this secluded cove is a favorite spot for swimming and picnicking.
4. Calanque de Port-Miou: Explore Calanque de Port-Miou, the only calanque in the park that is accessible by car. This sheltered inlet is popular for boating and kayaking, offering calm waters and scenic views of the surrounding cliffs.
5. Hiking Trails: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the network of hiking trails that wind through Calanques National Park. Choose from easy coastal walks to challenging treks that lead to panoramic viewpoints and hidden coves.
6. Marseilleveyre Peak: Hike to the summit of Marseilleveyre Peak for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding calanques. This challenging hike rewards visitors with stunning vistas of the park and beyond.
7. Sormiou Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Sormiou Beach, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this idyllic beach offers clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere.
8. Cassis: Explore the charming seaside town of Cassis, located on the edge of Calanques National Park. Stroll along the harbor, visit the local markets, and sample fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
9. La Ciotat: Discover the coastal town of La Ciotat, known for its sandy beaches, historic old town, and vibrant waterfront promenade. Don't miss the scenic Route des Crêtes, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
10. Rock Climbing: Test your skills on the limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park, which offer world-class rock climbing opportunities for climbers of all levels. Guided climbing tours and equipment rentals are available in Marseille and Cassis.
11. Scuba Diving: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Calanques National Park and discover a diverse underwater world teeming with marine life. Popular dive sites include Les Goudes, Riou Island, and the submerged caves of the calanques.
12. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and even the occasional sea turtle. Binoculars are recommended for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially during migratory seasons.
13. Picnic Spots: Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch amid the natural beauty of Calanques National Park. Many of the calanques offer scenic picnic spots with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
14. Conservation Areas: Learn about the park's conservation efforts and environmental initiatives at visitor centers and interpretation sites located throughout Calanques National Park.
15. Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour or kayak excursion to explore the hidden coves, sea caves, and secluded beaches of Calanques National Park from the water. These tours offer a unique perspective of the park's stunning coastline and geological formations.
Whether you're interested in outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, or simply relaxing on the beach, Calanques National Park offers a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and sturdy footwear for exploring the rugged terrain of the park.