Top Outdoor Activities in Provence

By land, sea or air, for fun, or to get in shape, there is always a good reason to go for the grunt in Provence. Warm up and explore our top Outdoor Activities in Provence!

Amble on the Coast

Hiking and Climbing in the Calanques

Hiking and rock-climbing enthusiasts, a huge playground awaits you at the edge of Marseille. The Parc National des Calanques has scores of hiking trails, including the GR 98-51, which connects Marseille to Cassis over 28 kilometres. You can also find incredible rock-climbing . To explore these limestone landscapes, bordered by a turquoise sea in complete safety, book an excursion with the Bureau des Guides des Calanques, which offers hiking, rock-climbing and adventure tours.

Hiking in Provence

Make Like Jacques Cousteau

Diving in Fréjus

Explore the magic of the underwater world in Provence with the Aquatic Rando Club in Fréjus. A bit apprehensive? Don’t worry, the team is known for its good humour and training. Choose from their diverse activities and enjoy the incredible feeling of freedom that exploring the coast provides. By opting for diving, you travel in a quiet world, the domain of an extremely well-preserved fauna and flora. Do you like sports adventures? Dive into an Aquatic Treasure Hunt. On land and sea, you will have to solve your clues without losing your bearings! Finally, to penetrate the mysteries of the deep, climb aboard for an underwater scooter excursion.

Diving in Provence

Push Yourself

Run the Marseille-Cassis Race

On the last Sunday in October every year, the famous Marseille-Cassis race brings together athletes looking for a challenge and an adrenaline rush in a sublime setting. 20,000 registered competitors from the entire world cross the 20 kilometres from the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille via La Gineste, which crosses the Parc National des Calanques. Established in 1979, the Marseille-Cassis race lures more and more top runners every year who have come to push themselves in a friendly atmosphere and an unparalleled setting.

Make A Splash

Rafting in the Verdon

Thrill-seekers, climb aboard with Aquattitude for a sporting outing on the turquoise waters of the Gorges du Verdon. Between some bumpy passages and a sublime end to the trail at the entrance to the Canyon du Verdon (if you opt for the « Évasion » deal), great laughs, friendliness, an adrenaline rush, and thrills are guaranteed. This activity, to share with family or friends, is accessible to those over 8 years old.

Water sports in Provence

Spread Your Wings

Gliding at Mont Lachens

Want to try free flying? On a hang-glider or a paraglider, gliding without an engine gives an incredible feeling of freedom. Head to La Roque-Esclapon, near Draguignan, for a memorable experience with the Club Lachens Vol Libre . From the heights of Mont Lachens, also called the “Roof of the Var”, take off solo or in a two-seater for an experience that is both gentle and powerful. From the sky, you will enjoy an unforgettable panorama of the Provençal landscapes.

Provence from the sky

Get on the Water

Paddle in the Sorgue

The temperature is rising in Provence? Get the paddles out. Halfway between sports, relaxation, and nature, the canoe is THE ideal activity for summer. A short walk from Avignon, coolness and good humour await you on the banks of the Sorgue with the Canoë Évasion team. As a couple, with friends, or with family, you’ll rhythmically paddle over the emerald green waters, discovering the verdant landscapes of the Sorgue. End your outing with a swim break. A refreshing experience!

Hike Through History

Explore the Garlaban

To combine sport, nature and culture, go north of Aubagne to the Massif du Garlaban. These hills where olive trees and crops mix in « restanques » (terraces in Provençal) largely inspired local boy, Marcel Pagnol. This is where, when he was young, the writer spent his summer holidays, re-told in the four volumes of his Childhood Memories films. The Pays d’Aubagne et de l’Étoile tourist office offers guided circuits and hikes on foot to discover this now legendary Garlaban. Some are accessible to children from 6 years old. The Dans la Cour des Grands company, for its part, organises theatrical hikes there.

Outdoor activities

Horse rides, bike rides, hiking, or strolls in a park or a garden. The natural Provençal landscapes are sure to charm you. Enjoy these outdoor activities with your family or...