Calanques National Park is a protected area in the south of France located between Marseille and Cassis. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, its turquoise waters, its white limestone cliffs, and its diverse and abundant wildlife. It is also one of the most popular destinations for hiking, climbing, and kayaking in the Mediterranean region.
History of Calanques National Park
Calanques National Park was established in 2012, making it one of the newest national parks in France. The park covers an area of over 20,000 hectares, including 19 Calanques (inlets) and numerous coves, cliffs, and islands. It is the only national park in France to be located in a metropolitan area, and it is part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas.
Features of Calanques National Park
Calanques National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and its unique geological formations. The cliffs and inlets are made of white limestone, which gives the area its distinctive look. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and even the occasional whale. The waters of the Calanques are a popular destination for kayaking and sailing, and the park is a great place to explore on foot.
Things to Do in Calanques National Park
The most popular activity in Calanques National Park is hiking. There are numerous trails that lead through the park, offering spectacular views of the Calanques and the surrounding area. Climbing is also popular, with the limestone cliffs providing a great challenge for experienced climbers. Kayaking and sailing are also popular activities, and visitors can take boat tours to explore the Calanques and their many coves.
Hiking Trails
- Sentier du Littoral – A 7 km trail along the coast, offering stunning views of the Calanques.
- Sentier des Douaniers – A 9 km trail that leads through the heart of the park.
- Sentier du Petit Prince – A 3 km trail with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Sentier de la Cascade – A 4 km trail that leads to a waterfall in the park.
Climbing Routes
- Falaise de l’Aiguille – A classic route with a variety of difficulty levels.
- Falaise de la Pounche – A challenging route with a variety of overhangs.
- Falaise de la Goule – A long route with spectacular views of the Calanques.
- Falaise de l’Ours – A steep route with a variety of technical challenges.
How to Get to Calanques National Park
Calanques National Park is located between Marseille and Cassis, and is easily accessible by car. The closest airports are Marseille Provence Airport and Toulon-Hyères Airport. There is also a train station in Cassis, which is the closest town to the park. Once in the area, visitors can take local buses to the park, or rent a car to explore the area.
Conclusion
Calanques National Park is a stunning and unique protected area in the south of France. It is home to spectacular landscapes, abundant wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of hiking, a challenging day of climbing, or an exciting day of kayaking and sailing, Calanques National Park has something for everyone.