The Calanques National Park stretches along 20 km of coastline between Marseille and La Ciotat, encompassing 8,500 hectares of land and 43,500 hectares of marine area. For travelers staying in Marseille, it's an exceptional natural playground—provided they respect its rules, which became stricter in 2026. From the Hotel Belle-Vue On the Old Port, the starting point for each hike is on foot, by bus or by sea shuttle.
A national park between land and sea
Created in 2012, the Calanques National Park is one of the few European national parks to protect a territory at once terrestrial, maritime and peri-urbanIts biodiversity is spectacular: 140 protected species on land, more than 60 in the water (dark grouper, loggerhead turtle, bottlenose dolphin, Posidonia seagrass). It is also one of the most visited in France — around 2 million visitors per year — hence the need for responsible tourism.
Three entrances from the Hotel Belle-Vue
1. Les Goudes — the end of the world in Marseille
Goudes They are the southern outpost of Marseille: a still unspoiled fishing village, colorful cabins clinging to the rocks, restaurants right on the water. It is also the natural gateway to the Marseilleveyre calanques. From the Hotel Belle-VueTake bus 19 from the Old Port (1 hour, terminus Les Goudes)Allow 1 km on foot to enter the park itself.
2. Callelongue and the GR98 — historical hike
A few hundred meters past Les Goudes, the tiny port of Callelongue is the starting point of the famous GR98Allow 1 hour 30 minutes for the walk to the shaded and swimmable Marseilleveyre cove, with its view of the Riou archipelago. For experienced hikers, the GR trail continues to Sormiou (approximately 5 hours).
3. Sormiou and Morgiou — the iconic calanques
Sormiou and Morgiou are the two most photographed in the park. From June 1st to September 30th, the road is closed to vehicles. It can be reached on foot from the Cayolle car park (45-minute walk, moderate elevation gain) or by seasonal bus 22 from the Prado roundabout. There is a beach hut/restaurant in Sormiou (reservations essential).
The sea option: shuttle from the Old Port
For those who don't want to hike or to discover the coves that can't be seen from land (En-Vau, Port-Pin, Sugiton seen from below), the sea shuttles depart from the Quai des Belges on the Old Port — at 3-minute walk from the hotel Belle-VueAllow 4 to 6 hours for the excursion, depending on the package. Our Complete guide to the Calanques 2026 details all the options.
The new 2026 rules you absolutely need to know
- Sugiton access quota Since 2022, access to the Sugiton viewpoint trail has been limited to 400 people per day between July 1st and August 31st. Free reservation required at [website address]. calanques-parcnational.fr
- Areas closed due to fire risk From June 1st to September 30th, daily closures may occur depending on the weather. Consult the "My Calanques" map on the official mobile app. before each outing
- Permanent bans Fire, cigarettes, collecting plants or minerals, waste, going off-trail, drones, cycling off marked GR trails
- Bivouac prohibited in the heart of the park
Minimum equipment for a day in the calanques
- 1,5 to 2 liters of water per person (no water points available)
- Closed shoes with grippy soles (limestone is slippery and sharp)
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses (little shade)
- Snorkel mask for swimming (the rocky seabed is magnificent)
- Backpack to carry all your rubbish home
The hotel Belle-Vue, eco-friendly hotel in the Old Port
The hotel Belle-Vue is labeled Clef Verte for several years and the Caravelle certified Eco-friendlyOur commitment to the environment naturally aligns with respect for the Calanques National Park. Our team will guide you towards trails suited to your skill level, the opening days of the mountain ranges, and best practices for visitors.
FAQ — Visiting the Calanques National Park in 2026
Do you need a guide to visit the calanques?
No for the main trails (GR98, GR51, Marseilleveyre, Sormiou) which are marked. Yes for more challenging routes (rock climbing, the Cassis-Sormiou ridge). Many independent guides offer half-day excursions from Marseille.
What is the best season to discover the calanques?
April-May and September-October. Mild temperatures, open mountain ranges, limited crowds. Avoid July-August for hiking (heat, crowds, possible fire closures) — opt for a boat trip by sea.
Is it possible to swim everywhere in the park?
Yes, in all accessible coves. Some marine areas are strictly protected (anchoring, diving, and fishing are prohibited) — these are clearly marked. The water is clear and cool (18-22°C in summer).
Do you need a car to visit the Calanques from Marseille?
No. Les Goudes, Callelongue, Sormiou, and Morgiou are accessible by bus from the town center. The eastern calanques (En-Vau, Port-Pin) are accessible from Cassis (by train and on foot). And the entire area is reachable by boat from the Old Port, just 3 minutes from the hotel. Belle-Vue.
How many days should I plan to really explore the park?
One day for Sormiou + one day for Marseilleveyre + a half-day boat trip = 2,5 days minimum. For a complete stay including Cassis and En-Vau, allow 4 days.
Plan your stay in the Calanques from the hotel Belle-Vue
Our location on the Old Port makes the Hotel Belle-Vue The ideal base camp for exploring the Calanques National Park: 3-minute ferry ride, bus 19 stop nearby, terrace for tired returns, and tailored advice from our team. Book your room facing the Old Port.
