5 hikes on the Blue Coast and the Calanques
Between the Côte Bleue and the Calanques massif, the coastal paths offer some of the most beautiful panoramas in the region: limestone cliffs, secluded coves, and legendary calanques. We have selected five routes, from the most accessible (Niolon, Cassis) to the most challenging (Devenson), so that everyone can find a hike suited to their level and available time. Please note: several routes include exposed sections along cliff edges. We strongly recommend checking the weather forecast and setting off early in summer to avoid the heat and crowds.
Customs officers' path on the Côte Bleue (Niolon / La Redonne)
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours
Distance: 7 km
Elevation gain: +407 m
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Type of hike: Loop, coastal, rocky trails
Atmosphere: Panoramic sea views, secluded coves, wild atmosphere.
An iconic route on the Côte Bleue, the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path) connects the Niolon area to La Redonne along a coastal path, partly clinging to the cliffs. The route offers beautiful sea views, a few secluded coves and inlets, in a more tranquil setting than the major calanques of Marseille.
Suitable for experienced hikers, with some exposed and rocky sections; best reserved for good weather.
The calanques of the Côte Bleue starting from Niolon
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 12.6 km
Elevation gain: +305 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Hike type: Loop, landscape of calanques and olive groves
Atmosphere: Mediterranean hike, calanques, coves.
This loop starting from Niolon allows you to discover the hidden side of the Côte Bleue, with true calanques, small coves accessible on foot, and a setting between the sea and rocky hills. The trail alternates between shaded sections in olive groves and open ridges with views of the Mediterranean.
Ideal for tourists who want a true "nature day" without being seasoned athletes, but with a good level of endurance.
Loop between Morgiou and Sugiton (Marseille / Calanques)
Duration: 4 hours
Distance: approximately 10 km (depending on the route)
Elevation gain: +400 m
Difficulty: moderate
Type of hike: loop, Calanques trails, ridge path
Atmosphere: legendary Calanques, an iconic hike in Marseille.
This loop connects the Calanque de Morgiou to the Calanque de Sugiton, passing along the ridges of the Calanques massif. The trail offers a succession of breathtaking views of the sea, limestone cliffs, and picture-perfect coves.
Ideally suited for hikers with a good general fitness level, but without any extreme sections. Bring a hat, water, and hiking boots.
From Port-Miou to Port-Pin and En-Vau (Cassis)
Duration: 3 hours 55 minutes
Distance: 9.29 km
Elevation gain: +443 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Hike type: Loop, deep coves, shaded trails
Atmosphere: A classic hike in the Calanques of Cassis.
Starting from Cassis, this loop passes through the Calanques of Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau, among the most beautiful and most photographed in the area.
The trail alternates between shaded sections between cliffs and drier passages along the ridge, with opportunities for swimming in the coves.Perfect for tourists who want to discover the "must-sees" of the Calanques, ideally outside of peak season (early morning or early afternoon).
Cliffs of Devenson (Calanques massif, Marseille side)
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 15 km
Elevation gain: +750 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Type of hike: Loop, challenging trails, limestone cliffs
Atmosphere: Wild hiking, confidence and strong legs are essential.
This loop, roughly from Cassis to Devenson and back, explores the wildest part of the Calanques. The trail runs alongside vertiginous cliffs, crosses limestone valleys, and offers spectacular views of the sea and the lower calanques.
Recommended for experienced hikers with good physical condition, appropriate equipment (shoes, water supply), and experience on exposed trails. Avoid periods of intense heat and trail closures.