Calanque de Figuerolles
A breathtaking calanque with striking red cliffs, turquoise waters, and the iconic Rocher du Capucin. Perfect for swimming and photography.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Calanque de Figuerolles
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking calanque with striking red cliffs, turquoise waters, and the iconic Rocher du Capucin. Perfect for swimming and photography.
"This calanque is my favorite place to go; the water is clear, not too crowded, and the place to be when it's hot."
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet; water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique cliffs and Rocher du Capucin offer incredible photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rocher du Capucin
Overlooking the calanque
Dramatic rock formation resembling a dog's head, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Pebble Beach
Base of the calanque
A beautiful, clear turquoise water cove perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Red Puddingue Cliffs
Surrounding the calanque
Unique, striking red cliffs that create a dramatic and picturesque setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet; water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique cliffs and Rocher du Capucin offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚶 Steep Walk Back
Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding uphill walk after your visit.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The small parking lot fills up quickly; aim to arrive early or consider street parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Water Shoes Recommended
The pebble beach can be tough on bare feet; water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique cliffs and Rocher du Capucin offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚶 Steep Walk Back
Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding uphill walk after your visit.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The small parking lot fills up quickly; aim to arrive early or consider street parking.
🍽️ Restaurant with a View
Chez Tania offers fresh fish and a beautiful terrace, a historic spot since 1956.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Calanque de Figuerolles, praising its clear turquoise waters, dramatic red cliffs, and the iconic Rocher du Capucin. It's a beloved spot for swimming and photography, though parking and the steep walk back are common considerations. Some find the pebble beach less comfortable without water shoes.
"Just beautiful. You need to be there very early to park…there is a car park but we saw people double parking which would make it hard to get out. Better to get one of the end spaces on the road. These are still paid we believe, we paid anyway! Charges are expensive but worth it for the beach and view. Water shoes are a must. Beautiful bay for swimming. Steep walk back up."
Kate Ireson
"Medium sized calanque made out of interesting brown mud and stone. This, along with the prominant Rocher du Capucin hill that looks like a hawk/ dog head, makes for perfect photo ops. beach is busy in the day but fairly quiet in the evening when the sun disappears out of it, with rocks of differing heights to jump off of. Only downside is the pebbly beach gets a sheen of brown on your beach towel! Parking on street is ok, 1 hour for free and free after 8pm."
Nick Lawrence
"Easily accessible by bus. A short walk from the bus stop and you already have the most beautiful views known to man. Clear water and a nice place to swim. I recommend going here in March- April or in October-November, because it's not that warm then, but you can still swim. In the summer the heat is unbearable."
Pepijn Martinez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Calanque de Figuerolles by car, with a small parking lot nearby, or by bus. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to stunning views.
Yes, there's a small parking lot, but it fills up quickly. Street parking is also an option, with some areas being paid and potentially free after 8 PM.
Yes, it's about a 15-minute walk from the town center, accessible via stairs near the parking area.
The walk is described as a short hike or a steep walk back up, so be prepared for some inclines.
Yes, it's easily accessible by bus, making it a convenient option if you don't have a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets required for the calanque itself. However, parking may be paid.
The calanque is a natural area and is generally accessible at all times. However, parking availability and restaurant hours may vary.
No, the beach within the calanque is free to access. Parking fees may apply.
Visiting during shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) or on weekday evenings will offer a more tranquil experience.
Yes, the calanque is a natural site and can be visited year-round, though weather conditions can vary.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the clear turquoise waters, relax on the pebble beach, enjoy the scenic views, and even go rock climbing.
The water is described as clear and beautiful, making it a great spot for a refreshing swim.
It's a pebble beach, so bringing water shoes is highly recommended for comfort.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or showers is limited, but the nearby restaurant may offer some amenities.
Absolutely! The unique red cliffs and the Rocher du Capucin provide stunning backdrops for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic restaurant Chez Tania is located right in the calanque, offering fresh fish and a beautiful view.
Chez Tania is known for serving fresh fish and has a terrace with a view, making it a great spot for a meal.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally allowed in natural areas, but it's always good to check local regulations.
Chez Tania offers drinks and snacks, and it's a popular spot for aperitifs.
The restaurant has been operating since 1956 and offers events, suggesting it's open for a significant part of the year, though winter operations might differ.
📸 📸 Photography
The Rocher du Capucin, the red puddingue cliffs, and the turquoise waters of the calanque itself are prime photography locations.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) will likely offer the most dramatic lighting for the cliffs and water.
Taking a short walk to gain some height on the surrounding paths offers magical views over the calanque.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cliffs and calanque, while a polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
Drone usage in natural parks and coastal areas can be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or seasons to avoid the largest crowds and the intense summer heat, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The restaurant Chez Tania could be a convenient spot for a family meal, though it's worth checking their menu and atmosphere beforehand.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The unique geology and flora of the area are a major draw. The striking red puddingue cliffs and the iconic Rocher du Capucin provide endless fascination. The calanque itself is a perfect spot to rest, swim, and appreciate the raw beauty of the Mediterranean coast.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles from the beach, or climb slightly higher for panoramic vistas. The contrast between the rugged rocks and the serene sea is a recurring theme. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Calanque de Figuerolles
The formation of these cliffs is a testament to ancient geological processes. The pebbles within the puddingue were likely eroded from older rock formations and transported by rivers or the sea, eventually becoming cemented over millennia. This process has sculpted the dramatic shapes and textures visible today, contributing to the calanque's wild and rugged beauty. The interplay of light on these red rocks, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates a breathtaking visual experience.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the geology also influences the character of the calanque. The rocky and pebbly nature of the beach means that sturdy footwear is recommended, and the surrounding cliffs offer opportunities for climbing and exploration for those with the right skills and equipment. The unique geological makeup is a key reason why Calanque de Figuerolles stands out as a special natural wonder.
Experiencing the Calanque: From Swimming to Dining
For those seeking a more active experience, the area around the calanque is also popular for rock climbing, with routes catering to various skill levels. A short walk to higher ground provides panoramic views of the calanque and the surrounding coastline, offering fantastic photo opportunities. The nearby Rocher du Capucin is a particularly iconic landmark to capture.
Adding to the experience is Chez Tania, a historic restaurant nestled within the calanque itself. Operating since 1956, it offers a delightful dining option with fresh fish and a beautiful terrace overlooking the sea. It's a perfect place to enjoy a meal or a drink after a day of exploring, and the restaurant also hosts events, adding a lively atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit