Cassis : Hiking Tour 2 Calanques with swimming

If you’re drawn to rugged coastlines and crystal-clear waters, the Cassis: Hiking Tour of 2 Calanques with swimming offers an engaging experience in the South of France. This 3-hour excursion takes you along 2 iconic Calanques—Port-Miou and Port-Pin—with a passionate guide leading the way through scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes. The tour is ideal for those in good physical condition who appreciate nature, heritage, and a refreshing swim in nature’s pools.

This guided hike covers about 4 km, crossing stony terrain that emphasizes the wild charm of the Calanques. It combines heritage insights, scenic views, and a delightful swim in turquoise waters. While the activity is accessible to many, it’s best suited for participants comfortable on uneven ground and capable of moderate exertion. The tour’s small group setting ensures personalized attention and a more intimate connection with the stunning surroundings.

Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours of guided exploration starting from Cassis.
• Stops: Visits to Port-Miou and Port-Pin, including scenic photo opportunities and the chance to swim.
• Physical level: Easy to medium, requiring good fitness but no advanced experience.
• Highlights: Heritage of Calanques National Park, scenic trails, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
• Group size: Limited to 1 participant (small group for personalized guidance).
• Languages: Guides speak French and English.
• Meeting point: In front of the “boissons et glaces” hut at coordinates 43.2121315, 5.5219326.
• Weather considerations: Tour is canceled and refunded in case of bad weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Logistics at Cassis

The tour begins right in front of the “boissons et glaces” hut in Cassis. The precise coordinates are 43.2121315, 5.5219326, making it easy to locate. Participants are advised to bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes, and swimwear. The tour emphasizes a small group experience, which allows for more personalized attention from the guide.

The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with a low fitness level, considering the stony terrain and moderate physical effort required. The guided tour is conducted in both French and English, ensuring clear explanations of the geography, history, flora, and fauna along the way.

Exploring Calanque de Port-Miou: The Indigenous Port

The hike kicks off at Calanque de Port-Miou, known as the “best port” in the Provencal language due to its long indentation into the land. This 1,400-meter-long calanque is not only scenic but also historically significant, as it was once a limestone quarry site and includes an underground river.

While at Port-Miou, a photo stop is included, offering views of the marina and the rugged coastline. The guide shares insights into the heritage of the area, providing context about how the landscape was shaped by natural and human influences. Visitors appreciate this stop as a perfect introduction to the Calanques’ natural beauty and history.

Discovering Port-Pin’s Winding Waters

Next, the tour continues along the coast to Calanque de Port-Pin, which is famous for its pebble cove and turquoise waters. This calanque marks the entrance to Marseille and is notable for its winding, sheltered waters, ideal for a relaxing swim.

Participants have about 30 minutes of free time here, during which they can bathe in the inviting waters or simply enjoy the stunning scenery. The guide leads a visit and provides explanations, making sure everyone can marvel at this spectacular natural setting. The combination of scenic beauty and the possibility of swimming makes Port-Pin a highlight of the tour.

Navigating the Wild Peninsula Between Calanques

After visiting Port-Pin, the route takes travelers along a wild trail on the peninsula that separates the two calanques. This section is described as feeling like the end of the world, with untamed scenery and stony terrain underfoot.

This part of the hike offers scenic views and a sense of adventure, emphasizing the pristine, rugged beauty of the Calanques. It’s a moderate challenge that adds a touch of excitement and authenticity to this outdoor experience. The trail’s natural authenticity and sense of remoteness are highly valued, especially by those who enjoy a more adventurous hike.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Calanques National Park

The tour continues with a two-hour guided hike through the Calanques National Park, where the landscape becomes even more dramatic. The guide shares insights into the local geology, flora, and fauna, enriching the experience with informative commentary.

Along the way, multiple scenic viewpoints and photo stops are made, allowing participants to capture the stunning vistas. The terrain remains stony, demanding a good level of fitness and balance, but the spectacular views and natural beauty make the effort worthwhile.

Swimming in the Azure Waters

A key feature of this tour is the opportunity to bathe in the waters of Port-Pin. The waters are described as turquoise and idyllic, providing a refreshing break after the hike.

Swimmers should be prepared with swimwear and feel comfortable in natural waters, as this adds a relaxing element to the adventure. The guided swim is often praised, with many noting it as a delightful reward that balances physical activity with tranquility.

The Return to Cassis

After enjoying the scenic views and the swim, the group retraces its steps back to Calanque de Port-Miou. The return journey offers further photo opportunities and reflection on the spectacular landscapes seen throughout the hike.

The tour concludes at the starting point in Cassis, making for a convenient and seamless experience. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of the Calanques’ heritage, along with memories of breathtaking scenery and a refreshing swim.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants are encouraged to bring plenty of water and wear weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for stony terrain. Since swimming is part of the experience, swimwear is essential. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before booking, as the activity is canceled in case of bad weather, with a full refund.

The small group size means more personalized guidance and better interaction with the guide, who shares passionate insights about the landscape and its history. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited fitness, given the terrain and activity level.

Why Choose This Calanques Hiking and Swimming Tour

This 3-hour guided adventure offers a perfect balance between scenic hiking, cultural heritage, and refreshing swimming. The expert guides are appreciated for their passion and professionalism, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

The tour’s limited participant count ensures a more intimate connection with nature and personalized attention. For those who love outdoor activities, stunning viewpoints, and a dip in pristine waters, this tour provides an authentic taste of the Calanques’ wild charm.

While it demands a moderate level of fitness and some comfort with uneven terrain, the reward of spectacular landscapes and a swim makes this tour an excellent choice for adventurous visitors seeking a memorable outdoor experience in Cassis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts 3 hours, from start to finish.

Where does the tour start?
At 43.2121315, 5.5219326, in front of the “boissons et glaces” hut in Cassis.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes, and swimwear for the swim.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
The activity is rated easy to medium but requires good physical condition due to stony terrain.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming in the turquoise waters of Port-Pin is included, with free time for bathing.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French and English.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is canceled and refunded if the weather conditions are poor.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, the tour is conducted in a small group, limited to 1 participant for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Cassis hiking and swimming tour combines scenic trails, heritage insights, and a refreshing dip in a stunning natural setting. It’s well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want a guided experience that balances adventure and relaxation in the beautiful Calanques.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby