En-Vau, Limestone inlet in 9th arrondissement of Marseille, France
En-Vau is a limestone cove in the 9th district of Marseille with steep white rocky cliffs that rise more than 100 meters high. A natural shingle beach sits at the base, surrounded by soaring walls of rock that create an enclosed coastal inlet.
The cove was incorporated into German coastal defenses during World War II, when a military battery was built at the site. This fortification was part of a broader network designed to protect the Mediterranean shoreline.
The cove has attracted painters and filmmakers over the decades, drawn to its dramatic white walls and secluded setting. Artists and production crews have found in this place the kind of natural backdrop that sparks creative work.
Access is on foot only via a hiking trail that takes around ninety minutes, as vehicles are not permitted in the area. Wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water, since there is little shade along the path.
The beach has a visitor capacity limit put in place to protect the natural environment and keep the water and marine life healthy. This protection measure helps maintain the ecological balance of the inlet.
Location: 9th arrondissement of Marseille
Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible
GPS coordinates: 43.20097,5.50108
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04
The French coastline stretches over more than 3,100 miles and features a notable variety of beaches. From Brittany's granite coasts to Mediterranean coves, including wide Atlantic stretches and Corsican bays with clear waters, each coastal area has its own character. This selection takes you away...
France features a notable variety of protected natural areas, showcasing the country’s geological and ecological richness. From Lake Allos in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence to the underground rivers of Padirac in Dordogne, from the mountain ranges of Savoy to the limestone formations of the Ardèche...
France displays a range of geological formations shaped by millions of years of natural processes. White chalk cliffs mark the northern coast, including the cliffs of Étretat and the rock of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy. In southern regions, deep limestone gorges cut through the landscape, while...
The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region combines medieval villages, historical fortifications, and natural areas between the Mediterranean coast and the Alps. The landscape ranges from the lavender-covered plateaus of Valensole to the steep limestone cliffs of the Calanques and alpine passes above...
Château de Cassis
3.4 km
Calanque de Sugiton
3.8 km
Calanque de Port-Miou
1.3 km
Plage de Port Pin
846 m
Port-Pin
847 m
Exsurgence de Port-Miou
1.1 km
Plage du Bestouan
2.8 km
Calanque de l'Œil de Verre
2.8 km
Calanque de la Triperie
4.1 km
Devenson
1.6 km
Calanque de l'Oule
753 m
Location kayak Cassis
3.3 km
Plage d'En Vau
286 m
Plage de la Calanque de Sugiton
4 km
Plage Grande Mer
3.2 km
Col de la Candelle
3.1 km
Scenic viewpoint
578 m
Cassis Lighthouse
3 km
Église Saint-Michel de Cassis
3.4 km
Château de Port-Miou
1.6 km
Belvedere d'en Vau
633 m
Town hall of Cassis
3.5 km
Scenic viewpoint
509 m
Scenic viewpoint
3.9 km
Scenic viewpoint
2.9 km
Fontaine, avenue Victor Hugo, Cassis
3.5 km
Grande Candelle
3.1 km
Scenic viewpoint
126 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes