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Tourism in Cassis

Cassis is a particularly renowned and popular tourist destination in the Bouches-du-Rhône department. In the heart of an exceptional natural setting, the town is protected on one side by Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in Europe, and by the rocky inlets on the other. Between the Provencal hinterland and the Mediterranean Sea, Cassis is a former fishing village and a fishing port with typical charm. Stroll through the narrow streets of the town, admire the colorful facades of the houses, and relax on one of the warm terraces that line the port and the boats.

The town center is full of cultural treasures to discover, such as the Musée Méditerranéen d’Art et Traditions Populaires (Museum of Art and Popular Traditions) and Le Four Banal. Cassis is also marked by religion. Numerous oratories line the streets and paths of Cassis including the Oratory of the Virgin, the Oratory of Saint Mary Magdalene, the Oratory of the Christ Child, etc. You can also visit Saint Michel Church, built in the neo-Romanesque style.

Beyond its historical and cultural heritage, Cassis is also rich in its soil and especially its vineyards. During your stay, take advantage of the markets and events organized throughout the year to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Cassis.

The beaches of the city such as Corton Beach, Grande Mer Beach, the beach of l’Anse de l’Arène and Bestouan Beach are very popular in good weather. However, Cassis is known throughout the world for its rocky inlets. True paradisiacal inlets, the Calanques of Cassis offer a breathtaking panorama. Nature lovers will appreciate the view, the fauna and flora of this dream setting.

Le Four Banal

Le Four Banal, installed on rue Thérèse Rastit, dates from the 17th century. Remarkably preserved, the bread oven bears witness to a bygone era. Mannequins dressed in period costumes are a faithful reconstruction of the place. The historic building is an integral part of the local heritage. Archeological excavations carried out in the basement of the building have revealed various ceramic objects that have confirmed the existence of an active port between the 1st and 6th centuries AD. The Four Banal was a facility that the Lord had to maintain for the subjects who could use it for a set sum.

Calanques National Park

The Calanques National Park is a unique and protected tourist site that covers about 20 km. The inlets, their majestic cliffs and azure-blue water offer an idyllic setting to relax or to enjoy water sports such as diving and boat or kayak trips. To reach the inlets, you will have to equip yourself and take the hiking trails, unless you prefer to reach them by boat. Discover the natural heritage of Cassis, renowned throughout the world: Calanque de Port-Miou, Calanque de Port-Pin, Calanque d’En-Vau, etc.

Town Hall

A 17th-century mansion built by Désiré de Moustiers, the town hall is listed as a historical monument. Residence of various owners, the building was bought by the municipality and now houses the town hall. A visit to the monument allows you to marvel at the Salon d’Honneur with its coffered ceiling, the Renaissance fireplace, the chapel with its decorated ceiling, the cobbled courtyard… After restoration, medieval remains have been brought to light on the first floor thanks to the floor made of glazed slabs.

Cap Canaille

Cap Canaille dominates the city of Cassis. It is the highest cliff in Europe, and it falls on the sea. The Corniche des Crêtes winds along the cape and connects Cassis to La Ciotat. The view from Cap Canaille is breathtaking on the coast of the inlets and on Cassis and La Ciotat. You can take the coastal path for a hike to Cap Canaille. Along the way, you will discover, in addition to the dream panoramas, the wild nature. The natural site is also appreciated by climbing enthusiasts.

Notre Dame de Bon Voyage Chapel

Located on the Port-Miou peninsula, the Notre Dame de Bon Voyage chapel was built in place of an old destroyed chapel. It owes its name to the ships which, passing nearby, invoked its protection. Cassis was spared from the plague in 1720. By way of thanks, a pilgrimage was organized from the parish church to the chapel. It is still a tradition today. Every first Sunday of July, the inhabitants go to the chapel to attend an open-air mass.

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