Bed and breakfasts and stays near the Calanques
The Calanques, white cliffs and Mediterranean coves
A massif between Marseille and Cassis
Between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques massif forms a strongly mineral landscape. Limestone cliffs descend towards deep water, carving narrow coves where light, rock and sea create a coastline unlike any other in Provence.
The terrain is steep, distances can be deceptive and access varies depending on the season. This is part of the character of the Calanques: a natural area close to the city, but one that requires planning and respect for national park rules.
The best-known calanques
Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En-Vau, Port-Pin and Port-Miou are among the most sought-after sites. Some are reached from Marseille, others from Cassis, on foot or by boat depending on access conditions.
The landscapes vary greatly from one sector to another: cabins and small harbors at Sormiou or Morgiou, more vertical cliffs towards En-Vau, the long harbor-like inlet of Port-Miou, and open views from the ridges above Cassis.
Other calanques along the Provençal coast
The word calanque does not refer only to the massif between Marseille and Cassis. Other limestone coves can be found along the Provençal coast, such as the Port d’Alon Calanque between Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Bandol, or Méjean and Érevine on the Côte Bleue.
Hiking, sea trips and stays near the Calanques
The Calanques can be discovered on foot, by boat or from coastal viewpoints. Hiking remains the best way to understand the massif, but it requires attention to heat, wind, water supplies and restrictions linked to fire risk.
For a stay near the Calanques, Marseille is convenient for Sormiou, Morgiou, Les Goudes and boat trips. Cassis is ideal for Port-Miou, Port-Pin, En-Vau, Cap Canaille and the Route des Crêtes. The surrounding area makes it possible to enjoy the coast while returning to a quieter setting at the end of the day.
Stay in a bed and breakfast near the Calanques
Here is a selection of guest houses, gites and charming places to stay near the Calanques, between Marseille, Cassis and the Mediterranean, with direct access to each owner’s website.
Prestige bed and breakfast
Bastide de Fontvieille
Two elegant guest rooms and two suites in Saint-Cyr-sur-mer, in a former wine farm in the heart of the Bandol vineyards, in a restful and authentic Provencal athmosphere in the heart of a large garden of Mediterranean species. Garden with trees, swimming pool.
Charming bed and breakfast and Cottages
Domaine de la Font des Pères
Comfortable guest rooms and three individual holiday cottages in the restanques of a large AOP Bandol vineyard with remarkable terroir, near Le Beaussset. Panorama, Swimming pool, Gastronomic inn, Wine tourism.
Charming bed and breakfast and Gîte
Le Manoir de Gémenos
Three beautiful guest rooms and a Gite in an old provençal country house of the 16th century, at the foot of Sainte-Baume in the Provence of Marcel Pagnol, and near Cassis and Calanques. Swimming-pool, Garden.
Prestige Bed and breakfast
Les Pieds tanqués
Three charming guest rooms in a property located in the beautiful, preserved cove of Port d'Alon in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. Swimming pool, garden.
Planning a stay near the Calanques
When is the best time to stay near the Calanques ?
The Calanques can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn are very pleasant for hiking, enjoying the views and avoiding the busiest periods.
Summer is ideal for the sea, but access may be more regulated depending on heat, wind and fire risk.
Where to choose a bed and breakfast to visit the Calanques ?
Marseille is convenient for Sormiou, Morgiou, Les Goudes and boat trips. Cassis is very well placed for Port-Miou, Port-Pin, En-Vau and the Route des Crêtes.
What to do in the Calanques ?
Main activities include hiking, viewpoints, boat trips, swimming when conditions allow and exploring the small ports and coastal villages.