Full Day in Côte Bleue: Scenic Nature Walk and Boat Tour

Nestled along the scenic Mediterranean coast, the Côte Bleue offers a unique opportunity to take in the beauty of nature. This full-day experience promises an unforgettable journey, blending a guided nature walk with an optional boat tour of the captivating Calanques. Participants will embark on a delightful exploration, uncovering ancient fossils, admiring vibrant local flora, and enjoying a refreshing beach stop for snorkeling and relaxation. The chance to enhance this adventure through a boat tour further elevates the experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes that have captivated travelers for centuries.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Full-Day Tours In Marseille.

Key Points

• A full-day nature tour in the Côte Bleue region, including a scenic 25 million-year-old fossil trail and a beach stop for snorkeling and swimming.
• The tour is priced at €110 per person, limited to 12 participants, and led by an English-speaking guide.
• Includes a traditional French breakfast, round-trip train transportation, snorkeling gear, and a family Polaroid photo.
• An optional Calanques boat tour is available for an additional €20.
• The tour focuses on the natural beauty and conservation efforts of the protected coastal area.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day nature walk and boat tour in Côte Bleue offers guests an immersive experience, with a price tag of €110.00 per person.

This 10-hour excursion is limited to 12 participants and features a live English-speaking guide. Guests can look forward to a traditional French breakfast, a train ride to Carry-Le-Rouet, and a scenic nature walk exploring 25 million-year-old fossils and local flora and fauna.

The tour also includes a beach stop for snorkeling, swimming, and free time, as well as an optional Calanques boat tour for an additional €20 charge.

Roundtrip train tickets, snorkeling gear, and bottled water are all included in the price. Participants can enjoy a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests kick off the full-day adventure with a traditional French breakfast at Brasserie Le Grand Escalier, starting at 7:45 am, before boarding the train for a 38-minute ride from Marseille Saint-Charles to Carry-Le-Rouet.

Once there, they’ll embark on a nature walk to explore 25 million-year-old fossils and local flora and fauna.

The tour then stops at a beautiful beach in Sausset-Les-Pins, where guests can enjoy:

• Snorkeling in the clear waters

• Swimming and relaxing on the sand

• Exploring the seaside cafes and shops

• An optional Calanques boat tour for an additional €20

Included Services

Included in the tour price are a traditional French breakfast featuring coffee, tea, juice, croissant or pain au chocolat, and omelette, served at the starting point of Brasserie Le Grand Escalier.

The nature walk is led by a local guide, providing insights into the 25 million-year-old fossils and the area’s flora and fauna. Participants will receive a family Polaroid photo as a memento of the experience.

Round-trip train tickets from Marseille Saint-Charles are included, as well as full-face snorkeling masks for adults and children, depending on bookings.

Bottled water and trail snacks are provided throughout the day. Plus, the tour offers a nature activity for kids to take home as a souvenir.

Exclusions and Recommendations

Apart from the included services, the tour offers an optional Calanques boat tour at an additional charge of €20, subject to weather conditions. Lunch isn’t included, and participants should bring their own beach towels, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and personal snorkeling masks if desired. Gratuity and any added desserts are also not covered by the tour price.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, as the nature walk may involve uneven terrain.

Those with back problems should consult the tour operator before booking, as the activities may not be suitable.

Additional snorkeling gear and fins aren’t provided, so guests should bring their own if needed.

For any questions or special requirements, the tour operator can be contacted at [email protected].

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Important Information and Meeting Point

The tour commences at 7:30 am at the Brasserie Le Grand Escalier, where participants should arrive.

Comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or hiking boots, are recommended, as the nature walk may involve uneven terrain. Beachwear, towels, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and extra clothing should also be brought along. Individuals with back problems are advised to consult the tour operator at [email protected] prior to booking, as the activities may not be suitable.

The meeting point is conveniently located, and the tour guide will be present to greet the group and provide any necessary instructions.

Participants can expect a well-organized and informative experience, with the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Côte Bleue region.

Nature Walk Exploration

After breakfast at the Brasserie Le Grand Escalier, the group embarks on a scenic nature walk to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Côte Bleue region.

The guide leads them along a 25 million-year-old fossil-rich trail, pointing out unique rock formations carved by the wind and sea, vibrant wildflowers and Mediterranean shrubs, elusive bird species nesting in the rugged cliffs, and the fascinating geological history of the coastline.

Participants marvel at the region’s natural wonders, learning about the fragile ecosystem and conservation efforts.

The peaceful hike provides a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of this protected coastal area before continuing the day’s adventures.

Beach Stop and Activities

Following the nature walk, the group makes their way to a beach stop in Sausset-Les-Pins, where they’ve the opportunity to go snorkeling, take a refreshing swim, and enjoy free time at their leisure.

The tour provides full-face snorkeling masks for adults and children, allowing participants to explore the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters of the Côte Bleue.

After their aquatic adventure, visitors can relax on the sandy beach, soak up the sun, or explore the nearby beach cafés and grocery stores to purchase lunch at their own expense.

This stop offers a perfect balance of outdoor activities and free time, ensuring a well-rounded experience for the tour-goers.

Train Rides and Transportation

From Marseille Saint-Charles, the group embarks on a 38-minute train ride to Carry-Le-Rouet, allowing them to comfortably travel to the starting point of their scenic nature walk and boat tour in Côte Bleue. The train provides a relaxing and efficient mode of transportation, giving participants a chance to take in the passing scenery as they make their way to the next stop on the itinerary. The round-trip train tickets are included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

The train ride offers a scenic journey, with views of the Mediterranean coastline and surrounding countryside. Participants can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride, without the worry of navigating or driving.

The train’s schedule is coordinated with the tour’s itinerary, ensuring a smooth transition between activities. This efficient transportation method allows the group to focus on the tour’s highlights rather than logistical concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour appears suitable for young children, as it includes a nature activity for kids to take home and provides full-face snorkeling masks for both adults and children, depending on bookings. The group size is limited to 12 participants.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Gear?

Participants are welcome to bring their own snorkeling gear for the tour. This can provide a more customized experience. However, full face snorkeling masks will be provided for adults and kids, so bringing personal gear is optional.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

Unfortunately, the tour provider does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price of €110 per person is fixed, regardless of age or student status. The tour give you an inclusive experience for all participants.

Can We Take the Boat Tour Separately Without the Full Day Tour?

Yes, the Calanques boat tour can be booked separately for €20 per person, weather permitting. However, it’s not available without the full day tour package which includes the nature walk, transportation, and other activities.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Weather Is Poor?

According to the information provided, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If the weather is poor, customers can cancel for a full refund without penalty.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating landscapes of Côte Bleue with this seamless full-day adventure.

From discovering ancient fossils to snorkeling in the refreshing waters, you’ll have the opportunity to fully appreciate the region’s natural wonders.

With all necessary gear and transportation provided, this well-organized experience ensures a hassle-free day exploring the stunning Côte Bleue.

You can check if your dates are available here: