Calanque de Sormiou

Calanque de Sormiou is a Mediterranean bay near Marseille featuring white limestone cliffs that rise from turquoise waters, forming a natural harbor with a sandy beach. Steep rock walls create a sheltered inlet where small boats anchor and the water shifts through different shades of blue depending on the time of day.

This inlet served as a settlement for Ligurians, Greeks, and Romans in ancient times, and remains of these periods still exist at the site. The nearby Cosquer Cave contains evidence of human presence from prehistoric periods.

The small settlement around the harbor preserves traditional Mediterranean fishing and maritime customs that shape daily life here. Visitors still see the typical wooden fishing huts that have defined the character of this place for generations.

Car access requires advance permission during summer months, while hiking trails remain open year-round from Marseille. It is wise to arrive early since popular access points fill up quickly and to bring comfortable shoes for exploring.

These waters served as a testing ground in 1942 for pioneers of early underwater photography and diving equipment. Experiments conducted here contributed to fundamental developments in modern diving gear.