This route from Monte Carlo – Nice – Cannes to Saint Tropez is what the French Riviera, aka Côte d’Azur, is all about. However, when continuing further west in the Riviera, the landscape gets even more fascinating. And for the better, it also becomes relatively less crowded. Perhaps this is why Cassis, which is probably one of the cutest small villages in the entire Riviera, could still keep its authenticity.
Downtown Cassis is really lovely. Especially when you reach the harbour, you are amazed with the wonderful scenery. All along the harbour, there are various restaurants which have tables outside. You can enjoy your food overlooking a beautiful scenery.
But this is not the only specialty of Cassis. The Calanques, which are small inlets formed by limestone, create an amazing natural setting. Walking alongside the pine trees which then connect with spectacular rock formations is breathtaking. On top of that, the small beaches formed in the shoreline give you a private and secluded feel. The Calanques can be accessed both from the sea by renting boats or from the land via a trekking route. Although the distant ones would require serious stamina, the first couple of them could easily be accessed by an hour’s walk.
For the lazier ones, there are also different beach alternatives in Cassis. My favourite is Bestouan Plage, which is part shingle, part sandy beach. The quality and colour of the sea is absolutely amazing here. Though, even in August, the water could get really very cold around the entire Cassis!!
Finally, do not forget to try the famous and beautiful white wines of the region. By the way, Cassis is only an hour’s driving distance from the Marseille Airport.
