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Park · Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Calanque d'En-Vau
The deepest, most enclosed calanque of the massif, with high cliffs, a pebble beach and green-blue water. It's located between Marseille and Cassis and is reached by trail from Cassis, passing Port-Miou and Port-Pin, or by boat—without disembarking—on excursions that depart from the port.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Calanque d'En-Vau
En-Vau is a narrow, deeply set calanque with high limestone cliffs, also known for climbing. The beach is pebbly and the seabed alternates between sand and Posidonia, a Mediterranean seagrass. It belongs to Marseille's territory, but the most common way to get there is from Cassis.
The trail starts at the tip of Port-Miou, the easternmost calanque and the only one in the town of Cassis. Port-Miou is long and winding, about 1.4 km, and serves as a harbor for hundreds of boats. Continuing through the massif you reach Port-Pin, small, with pine trees and a little beach, and then En-Vau, with a steep descent at the end.
From the port of Cassis boat tours depart that enter Port-Miou, Port-Pin and En-Vau and return without disembarking. It's the option for those who don't want or can't do the trail.
Like the other calanques, the massif's access is regulated from June 1 to September 30 due to fire risk, and the trail may be closed on high-risk days. Check before you go. There is no water or shops along the way.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for the out-and-back trail from Port-Miou, with time on the beach. The boat trip from Cassis takes about an hour.
Best time
April to June and September to October. Leave early, before the heat. In summer, check the day before whether the massif is open.
How to get there
Go to Cassis (bus, train or car from Marseille) and walk to Port-Miou, about 30 minutes from the harbor. From there the trail is signposted. Sightseeing boats depart from the port of Cassis.
Tip
The final descent into En-Vau requires using your hands in some sections. If you have little time or experience, go only as far as Port-Pin, which is easier.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Calanque d'En-Vau
Can you see En-Vau without walking?
Yes, on boat tours that depart from the port of Cassis and enter the calanques without disembarking.
Is the trail to En-Vau difficult?
Up to Port-Pin it is easy. The final descent to En-Vau is steep and requires care and sturdy footwear.
Is En-Vau in Marselha or in Cassis?
The territory belongs to Marselha, but the most commonly used access is from Cassis, via the calanque of Port-Miou.