A Journey to the Calanques: A Nostalgic Hike in Cassis

The Road to Cassis

As I sat behind the wheel of our trusty RV, the familiar hum of the engine beneath me, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. The open road has always been a place of solace and adventure, a canvas for memories painted with the colors of the American Midwest. This time, however, the road led us to the charming town of Cassis, nestled in the heart of Provence, France. My husband and I had heard whispers of the breathtaking beauty of the Calanques, and the promise of discovering Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau was too enticing to resist.

The drive from St. Remy de Provence was a scenic one, with the rolling hills and vineyards of the French countryside stretching out before us. It reminded me of the long road trips of my youth, where every turn held the promise of something new and exciting. As we approached Cassis, the azure waters of the Mediterranean came into view, a shimmering expanse that beckoned us closer.

Discovering the Calanques

Arriving in Cassis, we were greeted by the warm embrace of the sun, its rays dancing on the cobblestone streets. The town itself was a picture of quaint charm, with its pastel-colored buildings and bustling marina. However, as we soon discovered, finding a parking spot was no small feat. After a bit of a search, we managed to secure a spot, albeit a bit of a walk from our meeting point.

Our guide, a friendly and knowledgeable local, met us at the entrance to the Calanques National Park. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and as we set off on our hike, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. The path led us first to the Calanque de Port-Miou, a long, narrow inlet that once housed a limestone quarry. The history of the place was palpable, and I couldn’t help but imagine the stories of those who had worked and lived there.

As we continued our journey, the landscape transformed before our eyes. The Calanque de Port-Pin greeted us with its turquoise waters and pebbled shores, a hidden gem tucked away from the world. It was a place that seemed untouched by time, a reminder of the simple beauty that nature offers.

The Majesty of En-Vau

The final leg of our hike took us to the Calanque d’En-Vau, a place that had been described to us as nothing short of magical. As we climbed higher, the view that unfolded before us was nothing short of breathtaking. The cliffs rose majestically from the sea, their rugged beauty a testament to the power of nature.

Standing at the belvedere, 90 meters above sea level, I was struck by the sheer magnificence of the scene before me. The beach below, cradled between the towering cliffs, was a sight to behold. It was a moment that reminded me of the vastness of the world and the endless possibilities that lie beyond the horizon.

As we made our way back to Cassis, I couldn’t help but reflect on the journey we had undertaken. The Calanques had offered us a glimpse into a world of wonder and beauty, a reminder of the adventures that await those who dare to explore. It was a day that would linger in my memory, a chapter in the story of our travels that I would cherish forever.