MARSEILLE
MARSEILLE
Access: 20 min by car from the campsite
Public transport: Bus 10 and 15 to Aubagne station then bus or direct train
The oldest town in France, Massalia was founded in VI century BC and its position of opening on the Mediterranean Sea made it a place of exchanges and mixtures of cultures. Today, some 111 districts extend around the Old Port; From L’Estaque which offers a breathtaking view of the harbor, to the small southern ports that open on the Calanques.
Marseille has a few traditional products such as santons, these little terracotta figurines depicting scenes from southern life, and of course, Marseille Soap (warining: the real Marseille soap must contain 72% olive oil ). There are many culinary specialties, but Pastis, bouillabaisse, aioli, shuttles … and pizza (the inventor of the pizza truck is from Marseille!).
Our favorites:
- Walk the neighborhoods of the Panier, the Canebière and the Vieux Port: cradle of the historic Marseille, to feel the atmosphere so special of the City.
- Discover the Mucem and its mediterranean garden: to open up to the cultures of the South and the Mediterranean. Guided tour and digital track game for children.
- Enjoy the view over the city from Notre Dame de la Garde (also known as “Bonne Mère”), which dominates Marseille at 157m
- Stroll on the Kennedy Corniche and gaze off the Frioul Islands
- Visit the Docks district: a beautiful example of successful rehabilitation, it is nice to stroll, enjoying the Marseille shuttle …
CASSIS
Access: 20 min by car from the campsite
Public transport: Direct bus from the Aubagne’s station
This little fishing port is situated between “the Calanques” and Cap Canaille (The biggest coastal cliffs in Europe). It is possible to admire its beautiful contrasted colors from the “route des crètes” which permit to join La Ciotat. Its white wine, dry and fruity has to be tasted!
CASSIS
Our favorites :
- To have a pastis or glass of white wine from Cassis on the port.
- To drive on the famous « route des Crètes » which join Cassis and La Ciotat, through Cap Canaille.
- Then, to visit the « Parc du Mugel », in La Ciotat, at the foot of the « Bec de l’Aigle » (beak of eagle). Astonishing panoramas !
AUBAGNE
Our favorites :
- The famous Garlaban and the circuits of Marcel Pagnol
- Camerone: famous celebration of the Foreign Legion every year on the 1st of May;
- The Museum of the Santons Di Landro which presents the know-how of these santon manufacturers. Visit the workshop and unique pieces.
Aubagne
Access: 5 min by car from the campsite
Public transport: Bus 10 and 15 to the Aubagne train station in the city center
Its ancient center, with its narrow lanes and shaded squares, is typical of the Mediterranean cities. Hometown of Marcel Pagnol (his native house is visited every day), Aubagne is also known for its clay. Workshops of santon and ceramic manufacturers are open to visits (see Tourism office of Aubagne):
AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Access: 30 min from the campsite by car
Public transport: Bus 10 and 15 to Aubagne train station then direct bus
Admirable town, very pleasant to furrow on foot. From fountains to mansions, the shady town center is full of small shops. Specialty: the calisson.
AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Our favorites :
- Getting lost in the Old Aix, its narrow streets, its shops and its art galleries. A must dos!
- Have a drink under the plane trees of Café la Rotonde
- Visit the museums of Aix: Musée Granet, Fondation Vasarely, Hôtel de Caumont