A pristine coastline with picture-postcard appeal
THE BLUE COAST
West of Marseille, between the Mediterranean Sea and the garrigue hills, lies the Côte Bleue. Less well-known than its neighbor, the French Riviera, it is no less spectacular. White cliffs, turquoise coves, charming little harbors… This unspoiled 25-kilometer coastline offers a concentrated dose of authentic Mediterranean charm, far from the crowds and concrete.
An exceptional natural setting
The name “Côte Bleue” (Blue Coast) is no exaggeration: here, the sea displays shades ranging from light blue to deep blue, changing with the time of day and the light. The calanques of Niolon, Méjean, and Ensuès-la-Redonne rival those of Cassis in beauty, but with a more intimate, wilder feel.
Beaches abound: secluded coves, pebbles polished by the waves, small sandy beaches hidden between headlands. Swimming here is pure bliss, the water exceptionally clear. Masks, fins, and snorkels will allow you to explore the seabed, rich in Mediterranean flora and fauna.
Villages with understated charm
The Côte Bleue is also home to charming villages nestled between the sea and the hills. Niolon, a small fishing port clinging to the rocks, is a picture-perfect postcard scene. Méjean, a little further along, captivates with its peaceful atmosphere and colorful fishermen’s huts. Carro, a fishing village renowned for its fish market, immerses you in an authentic maritime ambiance.
Martigues, the “Venice of Provence,” is well worth a visit. Its canals, pastel-colored houses, bridges, and historic center make it a delightful city, perfect for strolling or dining al fresco.
An ideal destination for outdoor activities
The coastal path, which runs along much of the shoreline, offers spectacular views. Between pine forests, cliffs, and small coves, it’s perfect for a stroll or a hike. Numerous water sports are also available: sea kayaking, diving, paddleboarding, or simply swimming.
The Côte Bleue is also a paradise for cyclists and nature lovers. The little train of the Côte Bleue, linking Marseille to Miramas along the coast, is an attraction in itself, with its viaducts and unique panoramas.
The Camargue: a wild land between sky, sea and ponds
Located between the arms of the Rhône and the Mediterranean, the Camargue is a unique region in Europe. Here, water, wind, and light shape a landscape that is both rugged and magical. White horses, pink flamingos, rice paddies, herds of bulls, and endless beaches create an unforgettable setting.
A raw and spectacular nature
The Camargue, Europe’s largest delta, is first and foremost a natural sanctuary. Designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, it is home to exceptional wildlife: herons, egrets, free-roaming horses, black bulls, and above all, the famous pink flamingos, which flock to the salt marshes.
The landscapes are ever-changing, a mix of marshes, salt flats, dunes, and wild beaches. Everything invites contemplation and a sense of freedom. Sunsets over the water, the pink reflections of the salt flats, birds in flight across the vast sky: every moment is a potential photograph.
Living and proud traditions
The Camargue is a land of men and beasts, of herdsmen and cattle breeders. Camargue culture remains very much alive, encompassing bull breeding, Camargue-style bullfights, and local festivals. The herds open their doors to visitors, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the herdsmen on horseback.
The Camargue cross, a symbol of unity between faith, hope, and charity, embodies the soul of this region, deeply attached to its roots.
Iconic villages
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the spiritual and cultural capital of the Camargue, is a truly unique place. A seaside resort, fishing village, and important Gypsy pilgrimage site, it blends spirituality, a festive atmosphere, and Mediterranean charm. Its whitewashed streets, fortified church, and vast beach attract both believers and vacationers.
Aigues-Mortes, with its majestic ramparts and medieval past, is also well worth a visit. Its location on the edge of the salt marshes offers breathtaking views.
A territory for lovers of nature and freedom
The Camargue is a paradise for horseback riders, cyclists, and hikers. On horseback or by bike, the trails wind between ponds, dikes, and beaches. Boat trips, 4×4 safaris, or walks offer a different way to discover the Camargue, at the pace of nature.
Wild beaches, like Beauduc or Piémanson, stretch as far as the eye can see, far from urban beaches. Here, there are no deckchairs or concrete: just sand, the horizon, and the wind in your hair!
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