Callelongue Port
The port of Callelongue is a small fishing port located southeast of the city of Marseille. It can be said, without exaggeration, that it is a jewel of the Mediterranean, with wild and captivating beauty. This place, opened by a small lighthouse that guides the boats, is surrounded by calanques, and the panorama it offers is clearly one of the most sumptuous! The blue of the sea blends beautifully with the greenery of the surrounding nature, especially the large hills nearby. This special place in the city of Marseille is truly a must-see, if it hasn't been already. Let's discover together the port of Callelongue.
The history of Callelongue port
A peculiar name for this port, "Callelongue". Little documentation or information really allows knowing its origins, however, according to some, it derives its name from the Provençal "cala", which means cove or small bay, and "longue", obviously referring to its extended shape along the coast. Historically, it was a valuable anchorage point for local fishermen, but not so much for those from elsewhere, especially neighboring countries. Indeed, this port is very isolated and therefore very difficult to access, with a shallow draft of less than one meter; it is mainly accessible by sea via small boats or by a few coastal paths. However, in the Middle Ages, it was a crucial point for various commercial exchanges and tourist activities. It was and still is a true haven of peace, between calm, authenticity, and tranquility. This greatly contributes to the charm of the place.
Nowadays, the area fluctuates between small fishing boats moored at the docks (the port has a capacity of 57 berths), the houses of the fishermen, which are several years old and reflect traditional Mediterranean architecture, but also the cabins (former summer residences of some inhabitants) and a few restaurants that add to the conviviality of the place. This small port is very lively, thanks in particular to its inhabitants and visitors who come to visit it regularly, but also to take photos and learn more about the history of the port and its inhabitants. Moreover, when they return from fishing after long and beautiful days at sea, the fishermen often have interesting stories or anecdotes to offer to the curious or the enthusiasts. Their catch is also quite often found on the tables of the port restaurants.
The restaurants in the area allow, as mentioned earlier, to taste fresh products from local fishing, among the most famous we can mention: La Grotte located at 1 avenue des Pébrons. They also offer the possibility to taste traditional dishes from the region based on products from the sea such as bouillabaisse, an emblematic dish of the city of Marseille. All this, facing the sea and in a warm and friendly atmosphere, almost family-like.
The port and its surroundings are regularly the setting for several films and series, national or international. The port attracts because of its authenticity and the quality of its landscapes, as beautiful as they are unique. This contributes a lot to the success of the place, especially among visitors who seek out the filming locations of their favorite scenes.
Callelongue is also a very popular spot for various water activities it offers, especially kayaking, which allows exploring the calanques from the water, but also paddleboarding or sailing. A beautiful and unique experience.
Nature at the calanque de Callelongue
The calanque de Callelongue, surrounded by hills, is therefore the obvious starting point for several hiking trails. These wind through the Calanques National Park, in trails where fauna and flora reign and where the landscapes are spectacular around the Mediterranean. It's a perfect moment for seasoned athletes but also for Sunday athletes. One of the favorite routes of visitors is undoubtedly the Marseilleveyre path, which is a site of breathtaking beauty. It is accessible after about an hour's walk.
Like in many coastal areas, Callelongue faces significant ecological challenges, related to climate change, overcrowding, especially during the months of July and August, and preserving its biodiversity in the face of development.
Moreover, modernization and expansion projects are envisaged both to increase the port's capacity and to improve its services while conserving its local fauna and flora by regulating fishing and harmful activities. Public awareness is also a major issue. All this in order to promote the port as a flagship location of Marseille, combining tradition and modernity in the eyes of the public and affirming the major role of Callelongue in the economic, tourist, and historical life of the city of Marseille. It stimulates several sectors such as fishing, tourism, and craftsmanship, thus offering employment in various fields and supporting small businesses, especially restaurateurs and nautical centers.