From Marseille: Calanques National Park Guided Hike

Calanques National Park, just outside of Marseille, offers a captivating respite from the bustling city. Those seeking to enjoy the park’s natural splendor can embark on a guided hike that promises to unveil the region’s verdant landscapes and striking coastal formations. With the opportunity to swim, savor a picnic lunch, and witness breathtaking views of the Frioul and Riou archipelagos, this 5-hour excursion provides a well-rounded exploration of one of France’s most stunning natural treasures. For those eager to discover the allure of this remarkable park, the journey begins here.

Key Points

• The guided hike takes visitors through the picturesque Calanques National Park, departing from Marseille and lasting approximately 5 hours.
• Highlights of the hike include traversing verdant vegetation, exploring striking coves, swimming, and enjoying a picnic lunch on the beach.
• The tour provides a guided experience, equipment (if needed), a picnic, and soft drinks, with meeting points in Marseille and at the Luminy campus.
• Free parking is available at the Luminy campus, and public transportation round trip costs 3.5€.
• The hike may not be suitable for those prone to altitude sickness, and is subject to change due to weather conditions with a minimum of 4 participants required.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This guided hike through the Calanques National Park from Marseille lasts 5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later.

Trekkers will explore verdant vegetation and striking coves, swim and enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, and admire the Frioul and Riou archipelagos, as well as the tallest sea cliff in Europe.

The tour includes a guide, trekking poles (if needed), a picnic, and soft drinks.

Participants will either meet the guide at a Burger King in Marseille to travel together using public transport or at the entrance of the architecture and fine arts school in the Luminy campus for those coming by car with free parking available.

Highlights of the Hike

Trekkers can expect to traverse verdant vegetation and explore striking coves during the guided hike through the Calanques National Park.

They’ll also have the opportunity to swim and enjoy a picturesque picnic lunch on the beach, while admiring the Frioul and Riou archipelagos and the tallest sea cliff in Europe.

Plus, the guide will provide insight into the park’s local flora and fauna.

Hikers will be amazed by the park’s natural beauty, from the lush greenery to the turquoise waters.

The experience promises to be both scenic and educational, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning Calanques landscape.

Inclusions and Meeting Points

The tour includes a guide, trekking poles if needed, a picnic, and soft drinks, ensuring hikers are well-equipped and nourished throughout the excursion.

Travelers can choose to meet the guide in front of the Burger King at 8:55 AM to travel together to the national park using public transportation, or they can alternatively meet at the entrance of the architecture and fine arts school in the Luminy campus at 9:45 AM if arriving by car, where free parking is available.

This flexibility in meeting locations caters to the needs of various participants, allowing them to seamlessly join the guided hike and embark on the stunning Calanques National Park adventure.

Important Information

Although the hike through Calanques National Park offers stunning scenery, it may not be suitable for everyone, as the tour can be vertiginous for some due to the elevation of more than 250 meters and a distance of 7.51 km.

Participants should be aware that the tour isn’t recommended for those who suffer from altitude sickness.

Plus, the tour is subject to change due to weather conditions, so flexibility is required.

The minimum number of participants needed for the tour is 4, and it’s recommended to eat breakfast before the activity.

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Transportation and Arrival

To get to the starting point of the guided hike, participants can choose between two convenient meeting locations.

Those opting to travel together with the group can meet the guide in front of the Burger King at 8:55 AM, from where they’ll make their way to the national park using public transportation at a round trip cost of 3.5€.

Alternatively, hikers coming by car can meet the guide at the entrance of the architecture and fine arts school in the Luminy campus at 9:45 AM, where free parking is available.

Whether joining the group or arriving independently, both meeting points provide easy access to the start of the Calanques National Park guided hike.

Difficulty and Fitness Level

While the Calanques National Park guided hike offers stunning scenery, its moderate difficulty level requires a certain level of physical fitness from participants. The hike involves an elevation gain of over 250 meters and a total distance of 7.51 km, making it unsuitable for those prone to altitude sickness.

Plus, the tour can be vertiginous in certain sections, potentially posing challenges for some hikers. It’s important for prospective hikers to consider their physical capabilities before booking the tour.

The minimum group size of four people also helps ensure that the hike is undertaken safely. Those who are up for the challenge, however, will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a truly memorable experience in this beautiful national park.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants who need to change their plans. This policy allows guests to reserve their spot risk-free and avoid any penalties should unexpected circumstances arise.

If a cancellation is made within 24 hours of the tour, the full amount will be charged. However, in the event of inclement weather or other factors beyond the tour operator’s control, a full refund will be issued. This ensures that customers aren’t penalized for conditions outside their control.

The ‘reserve now, pay later’ option also gives customers the freedom to secure their spot without immediate payment, making the experience more accessible and convenient.

Contact and Booking Details

Guests can easily secure their spot on the Calanques National Park guided hike by booking online through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team via phone or email.

The tour requires a minimum of 4 people, so booking in advance is recommended. Guests can choose to meet the group at the Burger King in Marseille or at the entrance of the Luminy campus for those driving.

Public transportation is available for the round trip at 3.5€.

Payment is due at the time of booking, but the tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For any questions or special requests, the knowledgeable customer service team is available to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the guided hike in the Calanques National Park. The park has strict regulations to protect the delicate natural environment, and only service animals are permitted on the trails.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 12?

The tour may not be suitable for children under 12 due to the strenuous nature of the hike, elevation changes, and potential vertigo-inducing sections. The tour operator recommends the activity for participants aged 12 and above.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are limited restroom facilities along the trail. Participants are advised to use the restrooms before the hike. The guide can point out any available facilities during the tour, though access may be limited within the national park.

Can I Rent Hiking Equipment On-Site?

Yes, trekking poles are provided on-site if needed. However, hikers should bring their own comfortable hiking boots, backpack, and water. Other personal hiking equipment is not available for rent during the tour.

What Should I Pack for the Picnic Lunch?

The tour includes a picnic lunch, so hikers should pack light, non-perishable foods like sandwiches, fruit, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring water and sun protection. The guide will provide the picnic location and any necessary supplies.

Recap

This guided hike through Calanques National Park provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Hikers can enjoy swimming, a picnic lunch, and breathtaking views of the archipelagos and Europe’s tallest sea cliff, all while being led by an experienced guide.

With convenient meeting points and inclusive amenities, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Marseille area.

You can check if your dates are available here: