ABOVE: Taking to the water
Taking to the water
CASSIS AND THE CALANCHES
The pretty fishing port of Cassis, east of Marseille on the Mediterranean coast, is a quintessential French harbour. Mixing the colours and simplicity of Provence with the drama of the Med, it’s a relaxing little resort that avoids the buzz of the neighbouring Côte d’Azur. Enjoy deliciously fresh seafood from one of the many harbourside restaurants, or simply watch the colourful boats coming and going.
Cassis is also the best jumping-off point for exploring the breathtaking Massif des Calanques. Only from the water can you really appreciate the impressive white cliffs plunging down into the Mediterranean and the pretty hidden beaches and clear, electric blue water that lie between them.
There are dozens of these rocky fjords and little harbours to explore. They range from the bustling and popular Port Miou, with its stylish marina and pretty church or Port Pin and its ever-present fragrance of pine forests, to the dramatic ‘amphitheatre’ of Devenson, and the cosy Morgiou, with its tiny fishing village and bobbing local boats.
For those not wishing to take the helm of their own boat, Cassis offers lots of opportunities to join sightseeing boats touring the Calanques. One of the best is Visite des Calanques de Cassis (www.calanques-cassis.com), which offers tours of various lengths depending on how many Calanques you would like to visit. You can also enjoy a spectacular evening son et lumières light show from the water. For a bit of adventure, however, you can hire your own kayak or small motorboat to explore under your own steam. Visit the Loca’ Bato office in the port (tel: (Fr) 4 42 01 27 04) for more information.
If you have your own boat: Cassis has a small marina, with good, if basic, facilities. For more information, contact the Capitainerie du Port Départemental de Cassis. Tel: (Fr) 4 42 32 91 65, email: portdecassis@orange.fr
Read the full article on pages 58-63 of this months issue.
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