Yesterday was another reconnaissance day for our new Calanques de Marseille and Cassis self-guided walking holiday. I walked along the "Côte Bleue", the coastline just to the west of Marseille. The rocky paths are carved above the waters, hovering above imposing limestone cliffs, and around tortuous rock formations.
The walk began in the fishing port of Niolon, a small community of modest homes and picturesque little streets, far from the glitz of most Mediterranean towns.
Through the arch of the railway bridge. A scenic train line heads west of Marseille, along the Côte Bleue, stopping at authentic fisherman's villages along the way. Our guests will be staying in the heart of Marseille, and will use the train to reach the beginning of the walk in Niolon; from here the walk heads westward along the coast, and to the next train station.
The scenic Calanque de l'Erevine, about halfway through the walk, and a great swimming opportunity (a bit cold though in mid-December!).
Reaching the small port community of Méjean, this well-known restaurant makes for a great lunch break.
Beyond Méjean the path becomes more well-trodden, complete with steps carved into the coastline and wooden barriers along the way.
The landscapes too become much different, the pure white limestone giving way to ochre-laced rock formations.
Just a reminder that it's a nude beach...