Your Complete Guide to Cassis and Calanques National Park

We stumbled upon this oasis after many locals recommended the area as a must visit, primarily for the the Calanques national park that offers unrivaled cliff hikes and clear turquoise blue inlets for swimming. Cassis, France is often considered an underrated place to visit because it is overshadowed by other, more well-known destinations in the region such as Marseille, Nice, St. Tropez and Cannes. However, there are so many reasons why Cassis is a hidden gem that shouldn't be overlooked!

Here is why you need to visit this seaside town along with a quick itinerary on your way through the French Riviera.

1. Stunning natural beauty: Cassis is located on the Mediterranean coast, and is surrounded by gorgeous cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hills. The Calanques, a series of rocky inlets and fjords, are a must-visit attraction in the area.

2. Authentic charm: Unlike some of the more touristy destinations in the region, Cassis has retained its authentic Provençal charm. The town is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and quaint restaurants and cafes.

3. Wine and food: Cassis is known for its excellent wine, particularly its white wine made from the local grape variety, Marsanne. The town is also home to a vibrant food scene, with many restaurants serving fresh seafood and other local specialties.

4. Outdoor activities: Cassis is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and swimming. The Calanques are a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, while the beaches are great for swimming and sunbathing. Pack your sunscreen and hiking shoes, its absolutely worth the hike!

Cassis is such an underrated destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, authentic charm, and outdoor activities. It's a great place to visit if you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience in the South of France. Here is our action-packed 2-day itinerary for Cassis and the Calanques in France:

Day 1:

Morning:

Start your day with a hike in the Calanques. There are several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to challenging. The Calanque d'En Vau is one of the most popular and picturesque hikes. Arrive early, pack your sunscreen and swim attire!

After your hike, head back to Cassis and grab some lunch at one of the local restaurants. Try some fresh seafood or a sandwich made with local ingredients.

Afternoon:

Take a kayaking tour of the Calanques. Kayaking is a great way to explore the rocky inlets and fjords up close. You can also go swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters. In the late afternoon, head back to Cassis and stroll through the town's charming streets. Visit the local market, check out the shops, and enjoy a coffee or an aperitif at a cafe.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at one of Cassis' many excellent restaurants. Try some of the local specialties, like bouillabaisse or a dish made with fresh fish. Also, they local white wine is a must and one of the most popular crisp whites in South of France. After dinner, take a sunset cruise along the coast. You'll see the Calanques and Cassis from a different perspective, and the sunset over the Mediterranean is truly breathtaking.

Day 2:

Morning:

Start your day with a hike in the hills above Cassis. The Route des Crêtes offers panoramic views of the coast and the Calanques. After your hike, head back to Cassis and have a quick breakfast at a local cafe.

Midday:

Take a boat tour of the Calanques. This is a great way to see more of the fjords and inlets, and you'll learn about the local flora and fauna from your guide. After your boat tour, have lunch on the beach or at one of the local restaurants. Relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Afternoon:

Go rock climbing in the Calanques. This is a challenging but rewarding activity that will give you a unique perspective on the rocky landscape. We’re deathly afraid of heights so we watched from nearby, but if you have the stomach this looks amazing!

In the late afternoon, head back to Cassis and visit one of the local wineries. Try some of the local white wines, and learn about the history and production of wine in this famous region.

Evening:

Enjoy a final dinner in Cassis at one of the town's many excellent restaurants. Try some of the local cheeses and desserts, and savor your last evening in this beautiful part of France. Don’t forget to grab gelato and look back at all the awesome memories you just made in Cassis!

This action-packed 2-day itinerary will give you a true taste of the natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture that make Cassis and the Calanques such a special and must visit destination. Check out our guides on the French Riviera for your next stop!