Île Maïre - A rocky island surrounded by calm, blue water.
1 / 10

Île Maïre

4.8
·12 reviews·Marseille, France

A sublime island escape near Marseille, offering hidden coves, small beaches, and breathtaking views. Perfect for disconnecting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Off-season weekdays

Avoid crowds & chaos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Île Maïre - A rocky island surrounded by calm, blue water.

Île Maïre

Best Time

Off-season weekdays

Avoid crowds & chaos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sublime island escape near Marseille, offering hidden coves, small beaches, and breathtaking views. Perfect for disconnecting.

4.8
(12 reviews)

"A timeless place! Sublime! The end of the world!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos

Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Island's Coves

The Island's Coves

Various points around the island

Discover hidden coves and small beaches offering pristine waters and a tranquil escape from the mainland bustle.

Views from Cap Croisette

Views from Cap Croisette

Cap Croisette

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Île Maïre and the surrounding turquoise waters from this scenic viewpoint.

Island Mayor's Path

Island Mayor's Path

Path starting from the village

A scenic walk connecting the port to the island's higher points, offering diverse perspectives of the landscape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Île Maïre

Île Maïre is a stunning escape, but high season can bring crowds and chaotic parking. Consider visiting outside peak times for a more serene experience. Plan your transport carefully, as access can be tricky during busy periods.

Getting to Île Maïre

Accessing Île Maïre requires some planning. RTM bus 20 is a key route, but understanding local transport schedules and potential seasonal variations is crucial for a smooth journey to this picturesque island.

Best Times

When
Off-season weekdays
Why
Avoid crowds & chaos
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Ile Ste Marie

🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos

Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:

♻️ Respect the Environment

Use the provided trash cans to keep this beautiful place clean for everyone. :recycle:

🚌 Utilize Public Transport

RTM bus 20 is a convenient way to reach the island, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. :bus:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos

Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:

♻️ Respect the Environment

Use the provided trash cans to keep this beautiful place clean for everyone. :recycle:

🚌 Utilize Public Transport

RTM bus 20 is a convenient way to reach the island, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Île Maïre is lauded as a 'timeless place' and 'sublime,' offering a beautiful escape with its coves and beaches. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty and the opportunity to disconnect. However, the experience can be marred by chaotic parking and crowds during high season, leading some to recommend visiting off-season or early.

"A timeless place! Sublime! The end of the world! ☀😍
You can see all my adventures on my social media!
Instagram: Rungiov_marseille"

Rungiov

"Island opposite the Goudes district in the 8th arrondissement, RTM bus 20 goes there"

Bernard Morelli

"Magnificent island at the end of the world. Visible from Cap Croisette after the village of Goudes or the Calanque de Callelongue. To have..."

Karim SAARI

What People Like

Sublime natural beauty
Hidden coves and beaches
Peaceful escape

What People Dislike

Chaotic parking
High season crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Île Maïre is by taking the RTM bus 20, which serves the Goudes district. From there, you can access the island. Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. Reddit

While you can drive towards the Goudes area, parking on Île Maïre itself can be extremely difficult and chaotic during high season. Many visitors opt to park and walk. Reddit

For a more relaxed experience, consider using public transport like the RTM bus 20. Walking from the village entrance or central parking is also highly recommended to fully enjoy the island. Reddit

Currently, there are no direct ferry services mentioned for Île Maïre. Access is primarily via land routes and local transport. Reddit

From the Goudes, Île Maïre is typically reached by foot, offering a scenic walk. The island is visible from nearby viewpoints like Cap Croisette. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets required to visit Île Maïre. It's an accessible natural area, though parking might have associated costs or restrictions. Reddit

Île Maïre is a natural island and is generally accessible at all times. However, access to certain paths or facilities might be limited by daylight or local regulations. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee to access Île Maïre. It's a public area for exploration and enjoyment. Reddit

Yes, Île Maïre can be visited year-round. However, the experience can vary significantly between high season (crowded) and off-season (more peaceful). Reddit

The main restriction often encountered is related to parking and vehicle access during busy periods. It's advisable to be mindful of local rules and environmental preservation. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors enjoy exploring the island's coves, small beaches, and scenic walking paths. The views from Cap Croisette are also a major highlight. Reddit

Yes, the island features small beaches and coves with clear waters, making it a pleasant spot for swimming, especially outside of peak times. Reddit

There are walking paths that allow you to explore the island, including routes from the village entrance and higher vantage points like the Island Mayor's Path. Reddit

While not a primary wildlife destination, the natural setting offers opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in a coastal environment. Reddit

Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, water, and snacks. A camera is also recommended to capture the beautiful scenery. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The coves, the coastline, and panoramic views from Cap Croisette offer stunning photographic opportunities. The island's natural beauty is very photogenic. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over Île Maïre. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a zoom lens can be useful for capturing details. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky. Reddit

The unique rock formations, the small beaches, and the overall rugged coastline are iconic elements to capture. The views towards Turtle Island are also notable. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Île Maïre offers a wonderful natural playground for families. The small beaches and coves are perfect for children to play and paddle in the calm waters. Encourage them to explore the walking paths, turning the visit into a mini-adventure. Remember to bring plenty of sun protection, water, and snacks, as amenities on the island are limited. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays will make the experience more enjoyable for younger children, avoiding the crowds and potential parking frustrations. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the sea, making the most of the island's scenic beauty. The relatively short walking distances on the main paths make it manageable for families with young children. Emphasize the importance of leaving no trace and using the provided trash cans to teach kids about environmental responsibility. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Île Maïre presents a rewarding experience. The island offers scenic walking trails that allow you to discover its diverse coastal landscapes, from rocky outcrops to secluded coves. The Island Mayor's Path is a recommended route for gaining elevated viewpoints and appreciating the island's topography. Reddit

Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring adequate water, especially if you plan to explore extensively. The best times to visit for hikers are during the cooler months or early mornings to avoid the heat and enjoy the tranquility. The island's natural beauty, with its clear waters and rugged terrain, provides ample opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Île Maïre: Transport and Access

Île Maïre, a gem near Marseille, offers a unique escape but requires thoughtful planning for access. The primary public transport option is the RTM bus 20, which leads to the Goudes district, the gateway to the island. However, visitors should be prepared for potential challenges, especially during the busy high season. Parking in the Goudes area can become chaotic, with cars often being badly parked, leading to a less than ideal start to the visit. Reddit

To truly enjoy the island's tranquility, it's highly recommended to explore Île Maïre on foot. Many visitors suggest parking centrally or at the village entrance and then embarking on a walk. This approach not only helps avoid the parking stress but also allows for a more immersive experience of the island's natural beauty. Routes can range from leisurely strolls along the coast to more invigorating hikes up to higher vantage points, offering diverse perspectives of the landscape and the surrounding sea. Reddit

For those seeking a more serene visit, timing is key. Visiting during the off-season or opting for early mornings can significantly enhance the experience by minimizing crowds and the associated logistical issues. This allows for a more peaceful appreciation of the island's coves, small beaches, and the overall 'end of the world' feeling that many visitors cherish. Reddit

The Natural Allure of Île Maïre

Île Maïre is celebrated for its sublime natural beauty, often described as a 'timeless place' and 'the end of the world.' The island is characterized by its hidden coves and small beaches, offering pristine waters perfect for a refreshing dip or simply relaxing by the sea. These secluded spots provide a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to disconnect and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Reddit

The island's landscape is best appreciated through exploration. Walking paths wind through the terrain, leading to various points of interest. A notable route is the Island Mayor's Path, which connects the port area to higher elevations, providing stunning panoramic views. The island is also visible from nearby viewpoints like Cap Croisette, offering a different perspective of its rugged coastline and its proximity to the mainland. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment during their visit. The presence of trash cans serves as a reminder to keep the island clean, preserving its natural charm for everyone. By utilizing these facilities, visitors contribute to maintaining the pristine condition of this beautiful natural area, ensuring it remains a delightful destination for future explorers. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2