Attractions and Places To See around Gignac-La-Nerthe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gignac-La-Nerthe include a variety of natural and historical sites. Located near Marseille, this area offers diverse landscapes ranging from coastal coves to inland reservoirs and unique rock formations. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Gignac-La-Nerthe
- The most popular attractions is Érevine Cove, a beach that offers a beautiful bay after a slightly challenging path. This spot is known for its crystal clear waters and scenic views, including a small offshore island.
- Another must-see spot is Fort de Niolon Haut, a castle and historical site. Visitors can walk around most of the fortress and explore a bunker from the last century on a nearby summit.
- Visitors also love Réaltor Reservoir, a lake that serves as an easily accessible natural setting. It is a rich ornithological reserve, offering opportunities to observe various bird species like coots, swans, and egrets.
- Gignac-La-Nerthe is known for its diverse attractions, including beaches, historical forts, and natural reserves. The area offers a range of places to see and explore, from coastal views to inland natural settings.
- The attractions around Gignac-La-Nerthe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 250 upvotes and over 130 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Érevine Cove
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Fort de Niolon Haut
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Colorado landscape
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View of Marseille
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In Roman times it was a loading point for limestone rock from the nearby quarries (hence the name "Carry") and has been a fishing harbour since at least the 12th century.
Today Carry le Rouet is a lively small town that, thanks to the Blue Coast train line, has become a commuting outpost for Marseille.
A short walk from the station, slung around the port, is the centre, with its Art Deco-style casino, a little art gallery, La Bergerie, housed in a former sheep hut, and a wide array of bars, cafés and restaurants, as well as a single unsightly high-rise block that somewhat blights the skyline.
From here you can walk along a well maintained and easily accessible coastal footpath to the beaches of the Blue Coast, or even as far as one of the neighbouring towns. It's punctuated with illustrated plaques (in French only) about the local flora, fauna and other curiosities.
At the eastern edge of the town, the Parc Marin de la Côte Bleue (Blue Coast Marine Park) has a lively programme of activities centred about conservation and the environment. Avenue Jean Bart, plage du Rouet, 13620 Carry le Rouet.
A little further still out of town is the restored, 17th century chapel of Notre Dame du Rouet which can be visited on certain days only.
GET HERE: by GR51 (Grande Randonnée 51) hiking trail, from Ensuès la Redonne in one direction or Sausset les Pins in the other.
Blue Coast train from Marseille Saint Charles station to Carry le Rouet about 30 minutes.
Carry is - along with neighbouring Sausset les Pins - one of the key destinations for the open-air sea-food feasts held along the Blue Coast throughout the winter (Carry on Sundays throughout February).
marvellous-provence.com/other-places/towns/carry-le-rouet
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Réaltor Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
The Réaltor basin offers a beautiful diversity in terms of bird life: coots, grebes, swans, cormorants, egrets... and more during migration periods.
Note that the banks on the north-east side (Calas side) are open to the public, but the south-west part (TGV station side), belonging to the Société des Eaux de Marseille, is fenced and inaccessible.
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Tips from the Community
In Cay Rademacher's crime novel "Dangerous Cote Bleue" (a Provence crime story featuring Captain Roger Blanc), a character named Claude Figaroli explains to a police officer transferred from Paris what CALANQUES means: "It comes from the Provençal word CALANCO, steep. The bays are nothing more than steep valleys that rivers carved into the limestone cliffs in prehistoric times. Since then, the sea level has risen, and the canyons have become fjords. But they have retained their shape underwater: narrow, steep, and confusing. What you and I find picturesque today was hell for sailors for a long time."
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Absolutely recommend when it's sunny
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Beautiful bay, and the slightly more challenging path means you really deserve a break here. The small island offshore makes the view even more beautiful.
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The Fort de Niolon was built in 1870 and converted into a coastal battery by the German Wehrmacht during World War II. Today, you can see the casemates and gun mounts from the outside.
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The Calanque de l'Éverine is certainly one of the most beautiful bays on the coastal hiking trail (customs trail). We were amazed by the bright, turquoise blue water.
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This reservoir was created during the construction of the Marseille canal in the 19th century to supply the city. It is a beautiful nature reserve in the heart of the hills of the Arbois plateau. The site is a very rich ornithological reserve, and you can observe many species such as coots, swans, cormorants and egrets.
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Be careful, the area is difficult to access, you can quickly find yourself blocked, dead-end and impassable paths (slopes of more than 20%, unstable ground full of gravel, rocks and crevices ...) even if you are experienced in enduro mountain biking, the majority of accesses are very hostile ... Of course the site is beautiful but if an accident happens because of the dangers I mentioned, the firefighters will have a hard time reaching you (unfortunately I speak from experience: fracture following a fall while not even on the bike). Avoid trying to access from the EAST (TGV station) it is the worst (in addition you will have to cross the camp of the travelers which is a real open-air dump for km). The only passable path is located to the North and South, but the south leads back to the dual carriageway. Enjoy your ride!
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The rock formations above ENSOP, near Vitrolles, provide an impressive landscape that could easily remind you of the rugged terrain of Colorado, USA. With their striking reddish hues and sculpted shapes, these geological wonders make for a stunning backdrop as you cycle the trails that wind through this natural landmark. The ride offers a mix of rocky terrain and panoramic views, making it perfect for mountain bikers looking for both a technical challenge and breathtaking vistas, with panoramic views of Provence stretching out below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Gignac-La-Nerthe?
The area offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Érevine Cove, a beautiful bay with crystal clear waters, or the Réaltor Reservoir, a rich ornithological reserve perfect for bird watching. Additionally, the unique Colorado landscape near Vitrolles features impressive reddish rock formations.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Gignac-La-Nerthe?
Yes, you can explore Fort de Niolon Haut, a historical fortress where you can walk around most of its perimeter and discover a bunker from the last century on a nearby summit.
What outdoor activities are available near Gignac-La-Nerthe?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous options for hiking, cycling, and road cycling. For detailed routes and guides, explore the hiking routes around Gignac-La-Nerthe, cycling tours, and road cycling routes.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, there are trails for various skill levels. For an easy option, consider the 'Saint Michael Chapel loop from Gignac-la-Nerthe' which is approximately 5 km long. You can find more details and other routes in the hiking guide for Gignac-La-Nerthe.
Can I find family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Absolutely. The Réaltor Reservoir is an easily accessible natural setting perfect for observing various bird species like coots, swans, and egrets, which can be engaging for families. Érevine Cove also offers a beautiful beach experience after a walk.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Gignac-La-Nerthe?
Several spots offer stunning views. Érevine Cove provides beautiful coastal vistas, including a small offshore island. Fort de Niolon Haut also offers superb views from its elevated position. Additionally, the Colorado landscape provides panoramic views of Provence.
Is it possible to go wild swimming near Gignac-La-Nerthe?
Yes, Érevine Cove is known for its crystal clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming after a rewarding walk to the bay.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful scenery and crystal clear waters at Érevine Cove, often calling it a 'corner of paradise'. The Réaltor Reservoir is appreciated for its rich bird life and accessible natural setting, while Fort de Niolon Haut is loved for its superb historical site and natural surroundings.
Are there any circular walking routes available?
Yes, many hiking routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the 'Village of Les Pennes-Mirabeau loop from Le Clos de Provence' is a moderate 9.2 km walk. You can find more circular options in the hiking guide for Gignac-La-Nerthe.
What is the best time of year to visit Gignac-La-Nerthe for outdoor activities?
The region generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking and cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer. Winter can also be mild, allowing for outdoor activities, though some trails might be more challenging after rain.
Are there dog-friendly walking routes around Gignac-La-Nerthe?
Many of the natural trails and outdoor areas around Gignac-La-Nerthe are suitable for walking with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. The Réaltor Reservoir and various hiking paths offer open spaces for walks.
Are there any accessible trails for wheelchairs near Gignac-La-Nerthe?
While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not explicitly detailed for all attractions, the Réaltor Reservoir is described as an 'easily accessible natural setting' with 'pleasant tracks', which may offer some suitable sections. It's advisable to check local conditions or specific trail descriptions for accessibility before visiting.
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