Sormiou Cove
Surrounded by the two peninsulas of the Sormiou ridge to the southwest and the Morgiou ridge to the northeast, the Sormiou calanque is the most well-known and frequented among Marseille's calanques. It is located in the 9th arrondissement of the city. At the bottom of the calanque, there is a large paid parking lot, accessible only outside the summer season and for restaurant customers with reservations.
It's the widest of the calanques in the Calanques National Park with its 61 meters long. It is lined with about a hundred picturesque small cabins and a harbor sheltered by a breakwater with a launching ramp accessible to locals. Just a stone's throw from Marseille, you will discover during your hike a timeless landscape far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
What activities can you do in Sormiou ?
Sormiou is favored by fishing enthusiasts, hikers, and climbers. It's indeed the birthplace of scuba diving with its numerous nearby caves and magnificent underwater scenery. The high cliffs surrounding it provide numerous rocky walls that will delight climbing fans. Its white sand beach is located on the right side of Sormiou. Its turquoise water is dotted with darker areas due to the posidonia, an aquatic plant. It's the only calanque with a designated swimming area and is supervised during the summer period. For dining, you'll find some restaurants right by the water's edge. While Sormiou calanque alone is worth a visit, take the time to explore its surroundings.
What to discover in Sormiou ?
To the right, you'll find a trail leading towards Cap Sormiou passing above 2 small coves, up to Cap Redon. A little further, you'll see the Capelan Cave, a semi-submerged cave with 3 entrances that will delight climbers, divers, and even casual swimmers who can easily access it from the sea with a few strokes. To the left, the trail leads to the Morgiou Ridge passing through the Sormiou harbor and 2 lovely small pebble beaches. At the far left end, you'll find the prehistoric Cosquer Cave, whose entrance has been sealed off for safety reasons and to preserve the cave paintings that line its walls.
How to get to Sormiou ?
To reach Sormiou, there are 2 possible paths: from the Baumettes parking lot or from the Cayolle parking lot, and it will take you about 1 hour to walk from both parking lots. The Cayolle path is not sheltered from the sun, so remember to bring a hat or cap as well as sunscreen. The path is not difficult, but still wear good shoes and bring water. A drinking water fountain is available at the parking lot if you wish to refill your bottles. The parking fee is around 4-5€ for the day. Also, remember not to leave anything in your car as thefts are frequent in this parking lot. Visiting the Sormiou calanque will bring you a taste of paradise, just a stone's throw from Marseille.
