En-Vau is the best-known calanque of the whole park and lies on the Cassis side, east of Marseille, which makes it a day trip rather than a city walk. The official park route from Port-Miou via Port-Pin is rated difficult at 7.8 km one way, about 3 hours, with about 360 m of cumulative climb, returning on the same path. The park advises at least 2 litres of water per person in summer. A shorter loop through the plateau d'En-Vau is rated medium at 8 km, 3 hours, 150 m of climb. The start is the Port-Miou terminus of the Cassis town-centre shuttle. The steep path that descends from the En-Vau belvedere to the cove is discouraged by the park and is now forbidden because the descent is dangerous. The same prefecture access map applies here from 1 June to 30 September.
| Distance | 7.8 km one way (park sheet) |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 3 hours one way |
| Difficulty | challenging |
| Trailhead | Train or bus from Marseille to Cassis, then the Cassis centre to Port-Miou shuttle (confirm operating dates locally) |
| Best season | October to May; June-September subject to the prefecture fire map |
| Address | Starting point: Port-Miou, avenue Notre-Dame, 13260 Cassis, France |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Port-Miou, Port-Pin and En-Vau, Cassis
What to bring
Hiking shoes, 2 litres of water, swimwear, hat
Location
Starting point: Port-Miou, avenue Notre-Dame, 13260 Cassis, France
43.2010, 5.5011 View on map
Highlights
- Port-Pin and En-Vau coves with white limestone walls
- The Aiguille d'En-Vau rock needle
- Green water and sheltered beaches
Tips for visiting
- Use the Cassis shuttle to Port-Miou rather than driving.
- Carry 2 litres of water per person in summer.
- Do not take the direct descent from the belvedere into En-Vau.
- Check the prefecture fire map the evening before in June-September.
When to visit
October to May; very busy in summer.
Accessibility
Not accessible; rocky paths and steep sections.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is En-Vau from Port-Miou?
The park gives 7.8 km one way, about 3 hours, with about 360 m of climb.
Is there a shorter route?
The loop via the En-Vau plateau is 8 km, 3 hours, with 150 m of climb, rated medium.