The blue Bélvèderes route offers an unforgettable coastal walk from Port-Pin towards En-Vau. The En-Vau belvedere 170 metres up in the midst of pine trees seemingly clinging to the cliff face is remarkable and offers unparalleled views of the calanque of the same name, nestled between two steep cliffs. Just below the belvedere is another calanque that is inaccessible from the land.
Accessible from Cassis, Port-Pin calanque is the easternmost calanque of the Marseille area. It is a deep cove, like its two neighbours: En-Vau to the west and Port-Miou to the east. The latter, surrounded by steep cliffs and 1,400 metres long is the only one in the Cassis district.
Cassis was long known for its 115 million year-old limestone that was appreciated for its solidity. The construction of Mediterranean ports such as Alexandria, Pirée and Marseille built the reputation of this former Roman fishing port the world over. Today Cassis is a popular seaside resort. The port of Cassis, located in the heart of an agricultural area is sheltered by the Gardiole cliffs and Cap Canaille. The reputation off its wines has added to its touristic calling.
Other mysterious happenings also occur under the surface at Port-Miou. Known to hydrogeologists, but less so the general public, an underwater river is an amazing source of fresh water that flows into the calanque all the way from the Sainte-Baume chain through one of Europe’s longest underwater galleries. It has been the source of many studies since the 18th century and visited by divers for years, but some secrets remain, including the exact location of the spring. The mystery continues.
Beach areas in the calanques are few and far between, but rather creeks that are difficult to access making for a natural source of protection. In summer, it is important to book access to the Sugiton calanque, a means deployed to avoid overcrowding. Worth noting, from June 1 to September 31, access to the Calanques can be forbidden in the vnt of a risk of fire and some access road can be closed.
