My name is Lydie and I’m part of the France Freedom team at Grand Angle.
Over the 15 May long weekend, my boyfriend and I had just one wish: to find some sunshine. Problem… the rain seemed determined to settle over all of France!
So the mission was launched: find a place where the sky would finally be blue. After a few searches (thanks to the Where is the Sun? website), we chose the Southeast. We found beautiful accommodation near La Ciotat and our last-minute getaway was planned.
What a wonderful surprise! With white cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, charming Provençal villages and spectacular views of the Mediterranean, this region is packed with everything we love. So here are my five favourite things to enjoy over a long weekend between La Ciotat, Cassis and Marseille when you’re looking for some sunshine.
Top 5 Things to Do Around Cassis, La Ciotat and Marseille
1. Relax in the Calanques: swimming, picnicking and lounging
My first recommendation is a must-see in the region. But if there’s one place where you can instantly unwind, it’s in the #Calanques.
This time, we wanted to take our time. So we chose Port-Miou cove, easily accessible and perfect for a day with no plans. Picnicking by the water, a few games of cards, a good book… then, despite the water still being cool in May, a swim in an incredibly clear sea.
The scenery is simply magical: limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water and sun-warmed rocks… what better place for a long nap in the sun?
One tip though: watch out for the mistral! With the wind, you easily forget how strong the sun is… and you can quickly end up looking like a lobster. Don’t forget sunscreen!
And if you prefer a more active day, many other coves like En-Vau, Sormiou and Figuerolles can be discovered after a longer or shorter hike. The more you walk, the more unspoiled and pristine places you’ll find.
2. Watch the Sunset at Les Goudes
My second recommendation is for those who love the good life! If you enjoy having a beer or eating ice cream while watching the sunset, you’ll love this one. Indeed, you can’t visit Marseille without ending a day at Les Goudes. That’s what a local recommended to us!
This small fishing port, located at the edge of the city, offers one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region. The atmosphere is simple, authentic and truly Mediterranean.
Two options are available: enjoy an ice cream while admiring the sea… or sit on a terrace for a drink as the sun disappears behind the horizon.
On our end, we couldn’t choose… so we did both!
We particularly enjoyed the underwater bar 20 000, with its barrels as tables and its terrace facing the sea. A perfect place to admire the sunset while eating some tapas. And for those with a sweet tooth, the Gelateria des Goudes is also an excellent place to get ice cream to take away.
When the sky turns from orange to pink and the boats slowly return to port, it’s hard to find a more beautiful way to end the day.
3. Try a Via Corda in the Calanques
During this weekend, we also wanted to get off the beaten path.
The region is a wonderful playground for outdoor activities enthusiasts: climbing, paddleboarding, kayaking, orienteering… or Via Corda. It took us a while to make our choice because each of these activities appealed to us. But we were curious to discover something new, which is why this last one convinced us. Indeed, being familiar with via ferrata in our Grenoble mountains, we wanted to discover this climbing-focused version.
The result? An experience we absolutely loved.
Between rope passages, short climbing sections, and zip-lining, you move above the Mediterranean with exceptional views of the Calanques. An original way to discover the National Park, very different from a classic hike.
Good news: several routes exist depending on your level. No need to be an experienced climber to enjoy this adventure.
If, like us, you enjoy discovering a region by doing sports in an original way, I really recommend you try this activity.
4. Explore the Route des Crêtes between Cassis and La Ciotat
When younger, I had already driven the Route des Crêtes by car and kept an incredible memory of it. That’s why, coming back to the region, I wanted to return.
This time, we wanted a bit of a challenge but especially to take time to discover more of this area. That’s why we decided to discover it on foot… and I think it’s even more beautiful.
Between Cassis and La Ciotat, the trail runs along the highest maritime cliffs in France, with a succession of viewpoints offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean, Cap Canaille and the Calanques. From the various viewpoints, you can observe the landscape stretching endlessly, the boats sailing across the water. At each turn, the landscape changes and makes you want to stop to admire the view. But watch out because it can be quite dizzying!
If you can, I recommend visiting at the end of the day to admire the sunset: the cliffs then take on absolutely magnificent orange hues. It’s the ideal time to sit and watch the day fade away and why not enjoy your picnic overlooking this landscape.
5. Stroll through Provençal villages and vineyards
Provence is more than just its coastline (even if the coast is an incredible attraction).
By heading inland, you discover a more peaceful atmosphere, with small villages, flower-lined streets, markets and wine estates.
We loved getting lost in the narrow streets, stepping into artisan shops, bringing back a new magnet for our collection… and simply taking our time.
Wine lovers can extend the walk with a tasting at one of the many estates in the region. Among the vineyards, cypress trees and sun-drenched hills, you’ll find all the authenticity of Provence.
If, like us, you enjoy hiking, there are also lovely hikes around the villages. The scenery differs from previous hikes along the water’s edge, and you’ll soon find yourself in beautiful Provençal forests.
In conclusion
Between sea, cliffs, hiking trails and villages to get lost in, the La Ciotat, Cassis and Marseille region is an ideal destination for a long weekend. The culture is rich: magnificent landscapes, Mediterranean gastronomy and the melodious accent will captivate you!
In four days, we already had a wonderful glimpse of its treasures… but we still have so much more to discover. An excellent excuse to return!
So if you don’t know where to venture for your next long weekend, it’s without hesitation that I advise you to take a trip to this lovely corner of France.
Grand Angle’s advice
If you enjoy alternating hikes, swimming, stunning panoramas and discovering local heritage, the #Calanques and Provence in general are a perfect destination. Opt for spring or autumn: the temperatures are ideal for walking, the trails are less crowded and the light enhances the landscapes. The perfect way to fully enjoy Provence, between sea and mountains.
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