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The 2 Best Tours in Calanques National Park
If you’re heading to the South of France, Calanques National Park offers some of the most striking coastal scenery in Europe. Its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves draw outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. We’re particularly fond of experiences that combine active exploration with authentic sights, like a sailing cruise that lets you snorkel in secluded spots or an e-mountain bike tour that takes you off the beaten path without breaking a sweat.
One thing’s clear: Calanques is best experienced through guided tours that highlight its unique maritime and land landscapes. Whether you prefer cruising on a vintage schooner or pedaling past limestone cliffs, these tours provide a memorable way to see the park’s natural beauty while enjoying local cuisine and panoramic views.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top two tours in Calanques National Park based on their popularity, reviews, and unique offerings. Both bring something different to the table: one a leisurely sailing adventure with on-board lunch, the other a more active exploration on electric mountain bikes.
1. Marseille: Calanques Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Wine
This sailing cruise ranks highly among travelers, with a 4.7/5 rating from 352 reviews and a reputation for a relaxed yet immersive experience. For around $152 per person, you’ll spend a full day aboard a beautifully maintained 1949 wooden schooner, taking in spectacular views of Calanques National Park from the water.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to snorkel in secluded spots and enjoy a fresh buffet lunch on deck. The itinerary includes scenic stops at Château d’If, the Frioul archipelago, Île Maïre, and the Calanques themselves, making it a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and unwinding. The cruise’s narrative weaves in local history and marine ecology, giving you more than just pretty views.
Guests consistently praise the authentic maritime ambiance, often mentioning the friendly crew and delicious food. “The sailing was smooth, the scenery breathtaking, and the lunch surprisingly good,” one reviewer noted. The trip’s balance of guided commentary and free time makes it ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back but enriching experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a combination of scenic sailing, snorkeling, local cuisine, and a touch of history—all on a vintage vessel that adds charm to the day.
2. Calanques National Park: E-Mountain Bike with Virtual Guide
For around $53 per person, this e-mountain bike tour offers a flexible, active way to explore Calanques. With ratings of 4.7/5 from 78 reviews, it’s popular among travelers who prefer pedaling over paddling, or those with limited time but a big appetite for adventure. The tour spans from 4 to 8 hours, giving you options to customize your experience.
The tour includes powerful electric bikes that make climbing limestone trails effortless. You’ll discover stunning creeks near Cassis, ride along gravel tracks, and enjoy panoramic views from scenic viewpoints. Guided by a host and supplemented by a virtual navigation app, you’ll cover more ground than possible alone, reaching spots often inaccessible by car or foot.
Many reviewers highlight the ease of riding the e-bike and the informative commentary provided along the way. “The virtual guide made navigation a breeze, and the views were absolutely worth it,” one happy rider shared. The tour is well-suited for cycling enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, or anyone looking for a physically manageable way to see Calanques’ rugged terrain.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers who want to see the park’s landscapes without strenuous climbing, especially if you appreciate flexibility and tech-powered exploration.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two excellent options, consider your interests and fitness level. The sailing cruise (see more here) is better for those who prefer a relaxing day on the water, with opportunities to snorkel and enjoy local food. It’s ideal if you’re after a scenic, leisurely experience with a touch of maritime charm.
On the other hand, the e-mountain bike tour (details here) suits travelers who want to actively engage with the landscape and see more ground in a shorter time. It’s perfect for cycling fans or anyone wanting a more energetic adventure that still keeps the effort manageable thanks to electric assist.
Booking early is recommended for both, especially in peak season (spring and summer), as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Also, consider your fitness level—biking is more physically demanding, though the e-bike does most of the work.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase the stunning natural beauty of Calanques National Park but cater to different tastes. The sailing cruise offers a relaxed, scenic day with snorkeling and excellent food, making it well-suited for those seeking comfort and a maritime atmosphere. Meanwhile, the e-mountain bike tour provides a more active, flexible way to see the park’s creeks and cliffs, perfect for adventure-minded travelers.
If your time is limited or you want to combine sightseeing with leisure, the sailing cruise is a solid pick. If you’re comfortable on a bike and want to cover more ground at your own pace, the e-mountain bike experience is hard to beat. Both are excellent ways to experience the raw beauty of Calanques—just pick what fits your travel style best, and don’t forget to book early!
