great coastal and island walks by the Mediterranean
The Romans called it Mare Nostrum - and today it is still "our sea". And thanks to French conservation efforts you can still hike along the Mediterranean on pristine coastal and island walks in nature reserves reacheable only on foot, well shielded from the bustle of modern life on the Cote d'Azur.
Explore the calanques, the fjord-like narrow, deep inlets in France's newest national park between bustling Marseille and the small fishing village of Cassis. Choose from many walks of all levels of difficulty and duration in this vast wilderness still reachable only on foot along this otherwise well developed coast and its many comforts. Hike the soaring coastal cliffs of Cap Canaille to the east of Cassis. And to really unwind, take long, lazy walks on islands where cars are banned. Or hike to a walkers-only beach for the day, and indulge in le vrai bouillabaisse.
Use this itinerary, custom designed for a client, to inspire yours. Start on any day. Walk for as many days as you like. On your own time, at your own pace.
| Day 1 Arrival in Cassis |
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We'll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your B&B overlooking the sea in the fishing village of Cassis where the old port still retains an atmosphere of days gone by. Explore the village this afternoon and walk to nearby wineries to taste the excellent white wines of Cassis that come from its coastal vineyards. Dine al fresco tonight by the sea. |
| Day 2 Cassis - Calanques - Cassis Distance: 12 miles Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging |
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This morning your walk takes you along the coast into the world of the calanques. These long, narrow inlets lead to enticing, secluded beaches, reachable only on foot. The path leads along dramatic cliff tops with plenty of ups and downs, well worth the effort for the splendid views. Head back as the setting sun turns the Med into Homer's wine dark sea. |
| Day 3 Cassis - Cap Canaille Circular Walk Distance: 9 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Today you climb east out of Cassis amidst vineyards and along the heady cliffs of Cap Canaille. It is easy to imagine an 18th century English frigate bobbling down below, seeking trouble around the French Navy's nearby home port of Toulon, straight out of a Patrick O'Brien novel. Reach La Grande Tete, the Cap's highest point, for a picnic before heading home. |
| Day 4 Porquerolles Circular Walk Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Easy |
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The car free island of Porquerolles, a short ferry ride off the coast from Hyeres, is a pristinely preserved haven of pine, eucalyptus, vineyards, and dozens of sandy little beaches. Its main port is one of the few along the Med that are still as they were before the Riviera was discovered. And the best way to take in the island's natural beauty and discover its hidden little beaches is on a long, leisurely walk. Stay overnight in a lovely B&B. |
| Day 5 Port Cros Circular Walk Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate |
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Another short ferry ride takes you to nearby Port Cros, an island nature reserve with a superb circular walk around its coastline and along well marked botanical trails. You can also opt for an unusual "walk", a selfguided snorkeling expedition along waymarked underwater trails in a 4,300 acre underwater park, with a waterproof nature guide. |
| Day 6 Departure from Provence |
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After breakfast it's a bientot and time to catch the ferry to head for home. |
6 days, 5 nights
Coastal Provence
best time: April-May and mid-September-October (brush fire risk restrictions from July to mid-September)
Walks
four walks, easy and
moderate to challenging,
up to 12 miles per day,
shorter and longer options;
comprehensive self-guidance
package; in-person briefing
Where You'll Stay
Classic: charming B&Bs
and small family run hotels
Superior: high end B&Bs
and superior hotels
Deluxe: top country house hotels
Mix choices if you prefer
Field Support
In-person briefing on arrival; English speaking background support throughout the trip; optional GPS support
Pricing
(per person double occupancy)
Classic: from $1,493
Superior: from $1,755
Deluxe: inquire
indicative prices - actual quotes
may vary; mixing accom. choices also varies price
single supplement - inquire
Included
• all accommodation
• all baggage transfers
• all breakfasts
• briefing on arrival
• comprehensive Trip Kit including all official IGN maps, Trail Guides, and other guidance material
• any transportation except
for transfers if indicated
• meals/picnics other than breakfasts
• any form of insurance