FRIOUL ISLANDS

What a pleasure to take to the sea by taking a trip out of the majestic Old Port.... Direction the islands of Friuli, in the bay of Marseille, to discover the creeks of Morgeret and Saint-Estève, the fort of Ratonneau, the port of Eoube without forgetting the former Caroline hospital which hosts many cultural events. Limestone rocks 2 km from the harbour of Marseille, the Friuli archipelago has four islands and extends over 200 hectares. The steep, dazzling white reliefs of the islands of Pomègues and Ratonneau, If and Tiboulen can be seen from the city. Owned by the State and the City of Marseille, it is an emblematic site visited daily by many curious people and Marseilles residents who love to spend a moment with their families. The transparency of the waters that surrounds the archipelago also makes it a privileged place for city dwellers who want to escape for a few hours. The Mistral sometimes blows hard, and a microclimate has created a particular flora, a refuge for many birds (shearwaters, cormorants, gulls...).

The marina in the heart of the small village is more than pleasant with its restaurants and small shops. It is a pity that the architecture of the buildings has not been more meticulous, however.

The two main islands have marked trails: Pomega (2.7 km long), and Ratonneau (2.5 km long), while the other two are tiny. If houses the former prison of the Château d'If, the prison that would have welcomed Edmond Dantes, the imaginary hero of Alexandre Dumas' famous Count of Monte Cristo.

Historical visit, stroll and swimming. The boats that shuttle between Marseille and the Friuli islands offer two stops: the first on If Island to visit the eponymous castle, then Ratonneau, which is the busiest island and home to about 200 people all year round. You will discover Pointe Brigantin, the cove (and beach) of Morgeret, the fort of Ratonneau which overlooks the magnificent cove (and beach) of Saint Estève, the port of Eoube and the former Caroline Hospital. Pomègues remains wilder with the Calanque de la Crine, the port and the Pomègues tower which offers a magnificent panorama. Swimming is most enjoyable, whether on one of the beaches or simply in a small isolated cove. Paradise!

Canoeing and kayaking. An on-site base offers kayak rental to explore the creeks of the islands.

Scuba diving. Marseille diving clubs offer many outings around the Friuli islands to discover the underwater fauna and flora, but also the wrecks of boats and planes.

Boat. You can rent a motor boat (without a licence) at the Frioul en Mer water sports centre.

Snorkeling. Hiking trips are available in the Friuli islands.