9-Day Provence Adventure: Calanques, Camargue & Villages
Explore Provence in 9 days! Hike the Calanques, kayak in Camargue & visit charming villages. A perfect mix of nature & culture—plan your trip now!
EUROPEA GOOD MIXMIDDLE
About
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Calanques National Park, the serene wetlands of the Camargue, and charming Provençal villages. Over 8 days, immerse yourself in nature and local culture while hiking, kayaking, and observing unique wildlife like flamingos and wild horses. This trip is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and serene exploration in Southern France.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in Marseille, explore the Old Port and savor Provençal cuisine.
DAY 2 - Calanques National Park Hike
Discover turquoise coves and limestone cliffs on scenic hiking trails.
DAY 3 - Sea Kayaking Adventure
Paddle through hidden coves and caves in Calanques National Park.
DAY 4 - Travel to the Camargue
Transfer to the Camargue, explore salt flats, and watch for flamingos.
DAY 5 - Camargue Safari
Guided tour to spot wild horses, bulls, and diverse bird species.
DAY 6 - Arles & Local Culture
Visit Arles, explore Roman ruins, and enjoy local markets
DAY 7 - Pont Du Gard
Visit Pont du Gard, hike along its nature trails.
DAY 8 - Departure from Marseille
Return to Marseille for your flight or train departure
DAY 9 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$470
$900
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $20-40 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Car Rental
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$160-320
$120-200
$80-160
$110-180
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
March to May
Spring in Southern France sees a gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. This is an excellent time for outdoor enthusiasts, as the landscapes bloom with vibrant flowers, making it ideal for hiking in the Calanques and exploring Camargue’s wetlands. The milder temperatures and increased wildlife activity, especially migratory birds in Camargue, enhance the experience. Light layers are advisable, as mornings and evenings can be cooler. Additionally, fewer tourists make it a peaceful period to visit.
June to August
The summer months bring warmth and plenty of sunshine, with daytime temperatures averaging between 25°C and 30°C. This is peak season, especially along the coast, where beaches become a central attraction. The Calanques' turquoise waters beckon for kayaking and swimming, while inland areas can feel hot during midday. Early mornings or late afternoons are better for hiking to avoid the intense heat. However, the popularity of this season means busier trails, more visitors, and higher accommodation prices. Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are essential for comfort during outdoor activities.
September to October
Autumn ushers in cooler temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 24°C, and the crowds start to thin out. The natural landscapes transform into a palette of golden and red hues, especially in inland areas. This is a comfortable period for hiking in the Calanques and enjoying quieter beaches. The Camargue’s marshlands retain their allure, with flamingos and other wildlife still visible. Occasional rains are possible but infrequent enough not to disrupt plans. Pack versatile clothing for fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
November to February
Winter in Southern France sees temperatures drop to 10°C–15°C during the day, with colder nights. While some activities, such as swimming or extensive hiking in the Calanques, may be limited, this period is perfect for those seeking tranquility. The Camargue remains a fascinating destination for bird watchers, as many species migrate here for the season. The off-season charm includes lower accommodation costs and uncrowded attractions. However, days are shorter, and certain trails or tours may be unavailable, so it’s wise to plan accordingly.
Summary Recommendations:
Best Time to Visit: March to May, or September to October for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant nature.
Avoid if Possible: July and August, due to peak tourist activity and higher prices.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Arrive at Marseille Provence Airport and take your rental car to your accommodation near the Old Port. Spend the afternoon exploring this vibrant harbor area, known for its lively markets and seafood restaurants. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. In the evening, enjoy bouillabaisse, a local fish stew, at a cozy bistro.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options in the very city centre or near the port, as it can be not completely safe outside the centre
Check out some rent-a-car
We recommend some small car to move in the cities and find parking near the attractions
DAY 2
Drive to the Calanques National Park, renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear coves. Start at Cassis and hike the trails leading to Calanque d’En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Miou, or Calanque de Sugiton. These trails offer breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for a refreshing swim. Pack a picnic to enjoy amid the stunning surroundings. Sleep around the park.
CALANQUES NATIONAL PARK
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options in the nature, as with the car you won't have any problem to reach every location in the sourrandings
DAY 3
Return to Calanques National Park for a sea kayaking tour, which allows you to access hidden coves and caves that are not reachable by foot. Paddle through the turquoise waters, marvel at towering cliffs, and learn about the park’s ecology from your guide. In the afternoon, relax on a nearby beach or stroll through the charming streets of Cassis.
SEA KAYAKING ADVENTURE
DAY 4
Transfer to the Camargue, a unique region of wetlands, salt flats, and lagoons. Settle into an eco-lodge or a small guesthouse in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the heart of the Camargue. Spend the afternoon walking or biking along the Étang de Vaccarès to observe flamingos, herons, and other bird species in their natural habitat.
TRANSFER TO CAMARGUE
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options in Saintes-Maries-De-La-Mer in the hearth of camargue. Alternatively you can stay in Arles, a quiet city and logistically a good sleeping location
DAY 5
Join a guided 4x4 safari to explore the Camargue Regional Nature Park in depth. Spot herds of white Camargue horses, black bulls, and a variety of birds, including pink flamingos. Visit the Salt Marshes of Salin-de-Giraud, known for their surreal pink hues. In the evening, enjoy a traditional gardianne de taureau (bull stew) at a local eatery.
CAMARGUE SAFARI
DAY 6
Travel to Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Roman amphitheater and its connection to Vincent van Gogh. Explore its vibrant markets for fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Walk along the Rhône River and visit landmarks like the Cloître Saint-Trophime. End your day sampling Provençal wines and cheese at a local restaurant.
ARLES
DAY 7
Head to the Pont du Gard, a stunning Roman aqueduct surrounded by nature trails. Take a scenic hike along the Gardon River, where you can picnic and enjoy views of the historic structure. For the adventurous, consider kayaking under the aqueduct. Return to Marseille in the evening.
PONT DU GARD
DAY 8
Spend your final morning enjoying a relaxed stroll or coffee at a café near the Old Port. Shop for last-minute souvenirs like lavender sachets or olive oil. Head to the airport or train station for your departure.
BACK TO MARSEILLE
DAY 9
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back