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Cap Canaille and the Crêtes Vertiginous beauty between sky and sea

The emblem of Cassis

Set majestically between Cassis and La Ciotat, Cap Canaille towers 394 metres above the sea. It is the highest maritime cliff in France and one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean. Its ochre, gold and red tones, depending on the light, offer an ever-changing spectacle.

Frédéric Mistral once said: “Anyone who has seen Paris and not Cassis has seen nothing.

Practical information

Parking at the gateway to the Calanques, getting there on foot, the new regulations in force…

 The Route des Crêtes

A 15km panoramic road linking Cassis to La Ciotat, winding its way along the cliff tops. Each bend reveals a breathtaking view: the Bay of Cassis, the Calanques National Park, the vineyards and the massifs of Provence.

  • Developed viewpoints
  • Car parks to stop and admire the scenery
  • Hiking trails

Since 2024, the route has been pedestrianised every Sunday for a gentle, 100% natural experience.

Did you know?

The name “Cap Canaille” comes from a deformation of the Provençal expression “Cap Naio”, meaning “swimming cape”. It is formed of red marl and sandstone from the Cretaceous period, giving it its typical flamboyant colour.

 The Route des Crêtes in the heart of nature

Every Sunday – from 0h to midnight

Traffic reserved for pedestrians and soft modes of transport!

A shuttle bus will take you to the Route des Crêtes from Cassis

  • Gorguettes car park
  • Casino roundabout
  • Les Crêtes

(and return shuttle bus)

A few tips

Respecting a sensitive site

Listed and protected, Cap Canaille is a fragile natural area.

  • Don’t get too close to the cliffs
  • Keep to the signposted paths
  • Access closed in strong winds (watch out for the mistral: strong gusts)
  • In summer, access subject to fire regulations