Calanque de l'Oule, Natural cove in 9th arrondissement of Marseille, France.
Calanque de l'Oule is a natural bay in the 9th arrondissement of Marseille with two sheer cliffs that rise from the Eissadon to the Castelvieil plateau. These rock faces create a narrow opening to the Mediterranean Sea.
The name comes from the Provençal word 'oulo', which refers to the pot-like shape where waves surge forcefully during storms. This geographic formation has been important to local communities for centuries.
Fishermen from the area still work these sheltered waters in ways that connect them to the Mediterranean fishing heritage of Provence. The cove remains a working place where local maritime customs continue today.
You can reach the cove by boat from Marseille or on foot following the green-marked trail number 8 through the Oule valley. The water can be cold and conditions change with the seasons, so dress appropriately for the journey.
Below the water surface lies a semi-submerged cave housing diverse marine creatures and rock formations. This underwater space shelters species that make their home in this hidden part of the cove.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
