The Frioul Islands
The Frioul Island is an archipelago off the coast of Marseille. It comprises 4 islands, all equally beautiful, with fine sand, turquoise water, and protected wild flora and fauna. It's a lovely getaway to discover quickly!
The Frioul Islands form an archipelago consisting of four islands: Pomègues, Ratonneau, If, and the islet Tiboulen du Frioul. Owned by Marseille since 1971 and attached to its 7th arrondissement, it is 2 km from the shore of the Endoume district and covers an area of 200 hectares.
The Frioul Islands, visible from the Marseille coast, are connected to a dike forming a port with 700 rings. Turquoise waters, hidden coves, absolute calm, fine sand, white rocks, protected wildlife and flora, are all waiting for you! It is also a little paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, where you can encounter marine creatures such as octopuses, red starfish, various species of fish, and if you're lucky: dolphins and turtles.
These four beautiful islands are:
Pomègues: It is the largest island in the archipelago: 2.7 kilometers long. It is easily accessible via the dike from the port of Frioul. You'll discover, along a small path, one of the most beautiful beaches of the Archipelago: Tahiti Beach.
Ratonneau: This is the entrance to the archipelago. It consists of 2 creeks and 3 beaches. It stretches over 2.5 km.
If Island: There are no beaches on this island, only the Château d'If, which occupies the entire island. The fortress, formerly a prison, can be visited by history and literature enthusiasts, as Edmond Dantès, the fictional hero of Alexandre Dumas' novel The Count of Monte Cristo, is said to have stayed there. If is a detached part of the archipelago, surrounded by the sea, and is only accessible by boat.
Tiboulen Islet: It has a green maritime signal light with 3 flashes every 12 seconds. It is 34 meters high and visible at 7 nautical miles. Detached from the archipelago, this island is not accessible by ferry.
The Frioul Islands take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city, for a getaway in absolute calm, with the sound of water in the background. You're in for a treat!
Practical information about the Frioul Islands
It takes about 25 minutes by boat from Marseille.
Prices:
Round trip to 1 island (Old Port - Frioul Islands or Old Port - If Island): €10.80
Combined round trip to 2 islands: Old Port - If Island and Frioul Island: €16.20
Vehicles are not allowed on the archipelago.
When the southern sun is shining, make sure to protect your skin and bring water. There is very little shade on the archipelago.
