Which calanque should you choose on the Côte Bleue when you have some children?
Let’s be honest: when you mention the calanques to parents of young children, you often picture it as a real struggle. Between the steep paths where you have to carry the youngest child in your arms and the coves where the water gets too deep to stand in after just two metres, the trip can quickly lose its appeal.
Fortunately, the Côte Bleue is far more forgiving than its big sister in Marseille. Here, you can still enjoy unspoilt scenery whilst keeping things simple. Here, at Les Tamaris campsite, we’ve put together an overview of the spots where you can really lay out your towel (and your pushchair) with complete peace of mind.
1. Sainte-Croix Beach: A paradise for young swimmers
This is undoubtedly Martigues’ hidden gem for families. Imagine a cove of fine sand lined with pine trees, with crystal-clear water that remains shallow for tens of metres.
Practical information: It’s one of the few coves where you can take a pushchair right down to the sand. A real luxury on the Mediterranean coast.
That little extra: Your children can splash about in complete safety whilst you enjoy the view of the little chapel overlooking the sea.
2. The Calanque des Tamaris: Untamed beauty, with less effort
If you’re staying at the campsite, this is your own little secret spot. It offers a magnificent contrast between white rocks and deep turquoise water, without requiring a 45-minute walk.
Expert tip: The access is flat and quick. It’s the ideal spot for a first go at snorkelling. If you’re feeling restless, it’s also the perfect starting point for exploring the best walks along the Côte Bleue.
3. Verdon Beach (La Couronne): Totally stress-free
Technically, it’s a large cove, but it’s so sheltered that it feels like a giant calanque.
- Why we love it: It is supervised in summer, there are ice creams nearby (a killer selling point for the children) and clean toilets. It’s the easy option that doesn’t compromise on anything when it comes to the beauty of the landscape.
4. Niolon: An adventure by train
To make an impression on people’s minds, forget the car. Take the famous Train de la Côte Bleue.
- The experience: The journey along the viaducts is spectacular. As you descend towards Niolon, you arrive at a small, picture-postcard harbour.
- Please note, however: There’s no sand here. Make sure the children have good water shoes, as you’ll be swimming from the rocks or the small breakwaters.
Our 3 tips from a local ‘old hand’
- Beware of the Mistral: If it blows strongly, the water turns freezing cold in a matter of hours. This is the perfect time to change your plans and go to explore Marseille and its museums.
- Shade is your best friend: The white limestone reflects all the heat. Take a small beach tent with you, as spots under the pine trees are hard to come by!
- Summer visiting hours: On the Côte Bleue, the secret to a peaceful visit with children is to arrive before 10.00 or after 17.00. The light is better at those times and finding a parking space is much easier.
FAQ: Questions we’re often asked
Can you go to the calanques with a pushchair? Only at Sainte-Croix and Verdon Beach. Otherwise, a baby carrier is your best friend. The paths are often stony.
Is it dangerous for children? The Côte Bleue is generally ‘gentler’ than the Calanques of Cassis. However, always keep an eye on the weather: when the sea gets rough, the paths to the rocks can become slippery.
Where can you see the most beautiful fish without having to go far? Right in front of the Tamaris cove! All you need is a €10 diving mask to spot striped yellow fish and little octopuses amongst the rocks along the shore.
Ready to explore the calanques with the family?
The Côte Bleue is the ideal destination for a family holiday filled with the scent of the sea and pine forests. When you stay at Camping Les Tamaris, you’ll be right at the heart of all these gems, with the comfort of a mobile home or a fully equipped pitch where you can unwind after a day of exploring.
