Riou Archipelago, archipelago in Mediterranean Sea, France
The Riou Archipelago is a protected habitat management area and nature reserve southwest of Marseille, consisting of several islands led by Riou Island, which stretches about 2 kilometers with distinctive limestone cliffs and sheltered coves. It is part of Calanques National Park and supports more than 320 plant species along with seabirds, lizards, and diverse marine life in clear waters.
The archipelago has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, as shown by pottery and tools found in an old sandpit area. In the late 1800s, sand was extracted for mainland construction projects, but in 2002 the area became part of Calanques National Park and gained strict protection.
The name Riou likely comes from Occitan, referring to the rocky nature of these islands. Visitors today watch seabirds resting on rocks and notice how nature sets the pace for daily life in this protected place.
Visitors can land on Riou Island only between sunrise and sunset, or explore select calanques on the nearby mainland. Walking trails connect different parts of the archipelago, allowing close views of the landscape while staying mindful of the fragile environment.
The eastern side of the archipelago is a special no-take zone where diving and mooring are forbidden to protect water and wildlife. This strict rule shows how the protected area is managed based on scientific evidence to safeguard the most fragile habitats.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
