Experience the beauty of the Calanques on a South of France holiday

The South of France is well know for its natural beauty, but perhaps some of the most spectacular sights can be found along the coastline near Marseille.

Here, a series of coves and inlets known as the Calanques beak into the limestone cliffs, creating unspoilt sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters.

According to the official tourism portal of Marseille, the Calanques were created thousands of years ago when warmer temperatures after the ice ages caused the sea to rise and flood the valleys.

As well as being great places to sunbathe and swim, these picturesque coves are also home to an abundance of wildlife and plant species.

Tourists can explore the Calanques on a boat trip, although the area is also extremely popular with hikers.

Those renting Provence villas in the city of Aix will be able to drive down towards Marseille to find out for themselves why this particular stretch of the French coast is considered so beautiful.

Aix itself is located further inland, to the north of Marseille, and is packed with 17th and 18th century buildings set amongst a maze of winding streets, which are said to have inspired a great many writers and artists.

9 Feb 12

Reasons to consider buying property while on France holidays

8 Feb 12

Take holidays to Brittany 'to explore beautiful sights'

7 Feb 12

Take holidays to Cannes to witness two famous festivals

3 Feb 12

Explore the cultures of the world with holidays in Marseille

16 Jan 12

Party into the night with summer holidays to Biarritz

Other suggestions

© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Views and opinions in this article are solely of the author and do not necessarily represent those of James Villa Holidays(JVH). JVH provides no assurances regarding the accuracy of the information and cannot accept liability for complaints, loss or damage resulting from the article. It does not form part of the contract made when a holiday is booked with JVH and the information provided is not intended to be a rider or replacement to the booking conditions. Reference to the service or product of a third party, is not an endorsement or recommendation and JVH accepts no liability as a result of complaints, loss or damage arising from their use.