Perhaps you’ve heard of Marseille’s “end of the world?” That’s what they call Callelongue. It is a fitting nickname for this special place. Tucked away in the 8th district, Callelongue feels like a world apart. Getting here is an adventure. The road twists and turns through an arid landscape of white limestone. The sun beats down. The sea dazzles.
Callelongue, or “Calo longo” in Provençal, means “big creek”. The name reflects its long shape. For decades it has been a haven for fishermen and sailors. The small fishing port offers shelter.
Look around you at the cabanons, or cabins. See how they seem to disappear into the hills of Marseilleveyre. In 1849, a chemical processing factory transformed the port. It was the Weiss factory. It operated until 1884. Some buildings were later converted for businesses and homes.
Notice the absence of a beach. Callelongue is unique because it is the only calanque without one. Bathers cling to the rocks enjoying the clear waters.
Hikers pass through Callelongue. The famous GR98, now known as GR51-98, runs along the coast to Cassis. Be sure to wear hiking shoes. The path is steep and rocky. A ten-minute walk leads you to the old semaphore. Local residents and the Calanques National Park restored it. It once again serves as a lookout point.
Overlooking Callelongue are rocky formations. Les Lames and Le pas de la Demi-Lune provide breathtaking views. Climbers first conquered Le rocher des Goudes in 1890. Its vertical peak reaches 258 metres. La Cordée ridge climbs to the top of Saint-Michel at 321 metres.
Prehistoric traces of human life have been found in caves. One example is baume Sourne. Baume is the Provençal word for cave. It is also known as Saint-Michel d’Eau Douce. Hermits founded a troglodyte chapel in the Middle Ages. They had a natural supply of drinking water. That was a blessing in this desert.
Callelongue has served as a backdrop for many films. Famous actors have graced this tiny port.
The exotic garden of restanques is home to unique plant species. They require constant monitoring. They could threaten the local plant life.
Callelongue is more than just a place. It is an experience. A blend of history, nature, and Provençal charm. A place where the city fades away and the beauty of the Calanques takes over.