Cassis offers some of the most striking landscapes along the French Riviera — rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and scenic trails make it a top spot for hiking and trekking. Whether you’re after a quick nature escape or a more in-depth exploration of the Calanques, this small seaside town has plenty to offer. We’re especially fond of the half-day excursions, like the Cassis: 3 Calanques Half-Day Hiking Tour with Swimming, which combines manageable hikes with a refreshing dip. These trips are perfect if you want a taste of the region’s natural beauty without committing to a full day.
For those who want a more comprehensive experience, the Calanques de Cassis: Hiking Day Trip provides a longer, more detailed trek of the area’s most beautiful spots. And if your schedule is tight, the Cassis: Half-Day Calanques de Cassis Hike offers a quick but scenic route to enjoy some of the area’s highlights. Below, we’ll explore each of these tours to help you choose the best fit for your adventure level and interests.
1. Cassis: 3 Calanques Half-Day Hiking Tour with Swimming
At number 1 on our list, this half-day tour combines solid hiking with an opportunity to swim in the Calanques’ famously clear waters. Priced at $53 per person and rated 4.7/5 based on 202 reviews, it offers a great balance of scenery, culture, and fun. The tour kicks off at 50 Av. des Calanques with a safety briefing before setting out on a walk through Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau with a passionate local guide. The guide shares insights into the heritage of the Calanques National Park, making the experience both scenic and educational.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to bathe in the water at specific points—perfect for cooling off after hiking the rugged trails. The route spans about 4 hours, with a mix of scenic views, trail walking, and swimming. The itinerary includes a 15-minute safety briefing, a 1-hour walk in Port-Miou, a 30-minute break at Port-Pin, and a 1.5-hour scenic hike leading to En-Vau. Guests often comment on how the guide’s passion enhances the experience. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a quick but immersive taste of the Calanques’ stunning landscapes.
Bottom Line: It’s a well-balanced, affordable tour perfect for those who want to combine hiking with the refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.
2. Cassis hike: Port-Miou, Port-Pin, En-Vau
Coming in at number 2, this fuller exploration of the Calanques covers the same key creeks—Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau— but with a slightly more detailed itinerary and a perfect rating of 5.0/5 from 9 reviews. Priced at about $51.86 per person and lasting around 4 hours, it’s a slightly cheaper alternative that emphasizes the spectacular fjord-like waters and cliffs of the Calanques. Starting in Cassis, the hike takes place within the Calanques National Park, with the first stop at Port-Miou, where you’ll find a marina and limestone quarries.
This tour is especially notable for its crystal-clear waters and winding coves. As you approach En-Vau, the views become breathtaking—the cliffs rise sharply, and the beach is buried between towering rock faces. The itinerary includes exploring Port-Miou for an hour, enjoying a break at Port-Pin, and ascending to the belvedere of En-Vau for sweeping views. The guide’s local knowledge is a highlight, adding context to the geology and history of each stop.
This tour is best suited for those with a moderate fitness level who want a comprehensive view of the Calanques’ most iconic sites. The reviews emphasize the ease of access and the beauty of the fjord-like waters. If you’re after a full yet manageable day of hiking, this tour offers incredible value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a detailed, scenic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and comfortable pacing.
3. Calanques de Cassis: Hiking Day Trip
For the serious hiker, the Calanques de Cassis: Hiking Day Trip provides a full-day immersion into the region’s most spectacular landscapes. Though the exact rating isn’t listed, the 6-hour itinerary promises a thorough exploration of nature, geology, and local flora and fauna. The trip is designed for those who want a deeper connection with the region’s unique environment and enjoy panoramic views along the way.
The experience includes traversing rugged trails and discovering the most beautiful reliefs of the area. The guide shares insights into the natural ecosystems, making it an educational as well as scenic adventure. It’s suitable for those comfortable with longer walks, and the extended time allows for more secluded spots and less touristy areas. Expect to see some of the most breathtaking vistas and enjoy a well-paced hike through varied terrain.
While this trip is pricier at $89 per person, it offers more time and depth for those who want to truly absorb the Calanques’ natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice if you’re eager to spend a full day outdoors, especially if you’re interested in flora, fauna, and geological features.
Bottom Line: Ideal for dedicated hikers who want a thorough, scenic adventure with educational insights.
$89 per person
4. Cassis: Half-Day Calanques de Cassis Hike
Finally, this half-day tour is a straightforward option for those short on time but still eager to see the highlights. Priced at around $51 per person and lasting about 3 hours, it’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape from town. The hike takes you through Calanques National Park, with spectacular views and a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
What makes this tour stand out is its focused approach: you get to hike through the stunning landscape without a lot of extra stops or extended travel. It’s well suited for those who want an active morning or afternoon and appreciate scenic vistas. The guide’s commentary focuses on the natural beauty and highlights the most photogenic spots.
Though shorter, it offers good value and an efficient way to experience the Calanques’ rugged scenery. The reviews are generally positive, noting the spectacular views and “short but sweet” nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy the essence of the Calanques.
$51 per person
How to Choose the Right Hike in Cassis
Choosing between these options depends on your schedule, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after a quick dip and manageable hike, the Cassis: 3 Calanques Half-Day Hiking Tour with Swimming offers excellent value. For a more detailed exploration with panoramic views, the full-day hike is ideal, especially if you love learning about local geology and ecosystems.
If you want a deep dive into the wilderness, the full-day trip provides a longer, more immersive experience. For those on a tight schedule or prefer a shorter adventure, the half-day hike hits the main highlights without overcommitting.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season (spring and fall), when trails tend to be busier. Also, consider your fitness level and how much walking you’re comfortable with—some tours involve up to 90 minutes of hiking, with varying elevations.
Final Thoughts
Cassis offers a range of hiking and trekking tours that cater to different interests and stamina levels. For a quick dose of scenery and swimming, the half-day Calanques hike with swimming is hard to beat. If you’re after a more comprehensive experience, the full-day trek immerses you deeper into the region’s natural wonders. And for those with limited time, the shorter half-day hike packs in a lot of beauty in just a few hours.
Whatever your choice, remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the stunning views that make Cassis a true highlight for outdoor lovers. Book early, especially in the busy seasons, and prepare to be impressed by the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters of the Calanques. Happy hiking!