Published on Aug. 25, 2020 by Marseille Tourisme

We are responding to Marie's message, a reader who wants to go hiking between Marseille and Bandol at the end of September and is requesting some information to prepare her trip.

Today, we are responding to a reader's request who contacted us via the website's form. Here is her message, which we reproduce here:

« Hello, we are planning to hike the coastal path from Marseille to Bandol, and if the Calanques site is open during the week of September 14th or September 20th. I am having difficulty finding websites that provide satisfactory information. Could you please provide me with some information about the feasibility of this hike? Is the coastal path accessible all along the way from Marseille to Bandol? What are the accommodation options, such as guesthouses or lodges? Are there shuttle services or trains available for the return trip to Marseille? Do we need any permits or registration? Thank you for your response. Best regards, Marie R ».

Hello Marie,

Thank you for placing your trust in Marseille Tourisme. First of all, congratulations on this excellent choice. The coastal area offers beautiful walks, whether it's from Marseille to Cassis or in the Var region. We will do our best to provide you with the necessary information.

Firstly, regarding the Calanques National Park, the fire prevention measures are in effect until September 30th. Therefore, it is necessary to check each day for the following day on the prefecture's website. The site is updated every evening. Another option is to download the "Mes Calanques" application, which will provide you with real-time information on the situation.

THE COASTAL PATH FROM MARSEILLE TO BANDOL IS DONE IN STAGES.

1st stage : Marseille / Cassis via GR 51.

The hike can be done comfortably in two days, with a stopover in Luminy, or in one long day of walking (for more experienced hikers).

From Marseilleveyre to Port Pin calanque, you will pass through the most famous sites of the Marseille (Callelongue, Marseilleveyre, Sormiou, Morgiou, En Vau).There are several possible variations. The route covers approximately 30 to 35 km, and the number of hours depends on the walking pace. It is highly recommended to have the IGN maps "Marseille-Cassis, les calanques de Marseille" for guidance.

Please note that there is no water point along the route. However, you will find a bar in Morgiou.

Morgiou

Stage 1 : Cassis / Saint Cyr les Lecques via the Coastal Path

In Cassis, you will have the option to find accommodations in hotels or with local residents. Head towards Saint Cyr Les Lecques by car or bus, and from there, a hiking trail called the Coastal Path (sentier du Littoral) will take you to Bandol. The GR 51 goes from Cassis to La Cadière d'Azur and does not pass through Bandol.

The journey begins in Saint Cyr, specifically at La Madrague, and ends at Anse de Renécros (approximately 11 km in total). The Coastal Path, formerly known as the "chemin des douaniers" (customs officers' path), covers various scenic areas, including the Port d'Alon calanque.

Please note that due to a landslide between Pointe Grenier and Pointe Fauconnière, it is no longer possible to take the coastal path. Instead, you will need to take an inland path called the "sentier des vignes" (vineyards trail). To learn more about the Coastal Path, make sure to have the IGN map "Aubagne / La Ciotat / Massif de la Sainte-Baume".

Afterwards, you will need to find accommodation in Bandol. You can inquire at the Tourist Office (04 94 29 41) for information on bus schedules between Bandol and Les Lecques.

Cassis

There you have it, hoping to have answered your questions. Don't forget to send us photos of your hike. Have a great vacation!