Calanque de Callelongue

Does a “big creek” sound like the gateway to adventure? Well, here at Calanque de Callelongue, it most certainly is. Calanque de Callelongue is the very first calanque you’ll encounter in the Marseilleveyre massif, nestled between Marseille and Cassis. It’s located at the southeastern edge of Marseille’s 8th district, in the Goudes neighborhood. You’ll find it at the end of the coastal road, just past the charming village of Goudes. The name “Callelongue” comes from Provençal, “calo longo,” meaning, you guessed it, “big creek.” Calanque de Callelongue marks the beginning of the Calanques National Park. This seemingly dead-end road once housed a chemical factory. Now, a small fishing port occupies its place. The picturesque fishermen’s cabins add to the charm of this Marseille calanque. Unfortunately, there’s no sandy beach here. But don’t worry. The rocks offer plenty of spots for sunbathing and accessing the crystal-clear water. You might even spot some pétanque players enjoying a game alongside hikers preparing for the GR98 trail. This famous trail follows the coastline from Marseille to Cassis. A word to the wise, wear sturdy hiking shoes. The path is steep, and the rocks can be slippery. Just a short 10-minute walk from here is the old semaphore. Once abandoned, it’s been lovingly restored by local residents and the Calanques National Park. It serves as a lookout point, offering stunning views of the surrounding calanques. And for a taste of local flavor, don’t miss the legendary restaurant, La Grotte, known for its fresh fish and mouthwatering pizzas. Now, here’s a fascinating bit of Callelongue history. In the 1960s, a unique contraption called a “téléphérique sous-marin,” or underwater cable car, operated between Goudes and Calanque de Callelongue. It allowed visitors to explore the seabed from a sealed cabin that held up to six people. Sadly, the high operating costs meant this marvel only lasted a year. However, you can still see remnants of the mechanical devices that moved the cabins. Calanque de Callelongue isn’t just a “big creek.” It’s a portal to a world of rugged beauty, a starting point for countless adventures along the coast and within the massif. It is also a testament to human ingenuity and a haven for those seeking tranquility amidst the rocks and the sea.