Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues
Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues
Attractions and Places To See around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues include a diverse range of natural and historical sites. The town is situated between the Étang de Berre and the Nerthe mountain range, offering varied landscapes. Visitors can explore picturesque bays, dramatic limestone valleys, and extensive forest areas. The region also features significant prehistoric sites, medieval castle remains, and historic chapels.
Best attractions and places to see around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues
- The most popular attractions is Érevine Cove, a beach that features beautiful turquoise waters. This picturesque bay is part of a scenic coastal hiking trail, offering rewarding views.
- Another must-see spot is Port of Carro, a charming little port. It is known for its tranquil harbor and weekend fish markets.
- Visitors also love Fort de Niolon Haut, a historical castle site. While the fortress itself cannot be visited, the surrounding area offers superb views and opportunities for walks.
- Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues is known for its natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from coastal coves to ancient ruins.
- The attractions around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 135 photos and 250 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Érevine Cove
Highlight • Beach
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Port of Carro
Highlight • Beach
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Fort de Niolon Haut
Highlight • Castle
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View of Marseille
Highlight • Other
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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Cap Couronne Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
He tags the entrance to the Gulf of Fos-sur-Mer from the direction of Marseille.
In 1960, ignition of a red flash fire, on a cylindrical tower of reinforced concrete on a basement of 33 m height. It is a slightly frustoconical tower made of reinforced concrete painted white with the red top. Automated since 2001, the lighthouse can not be visited.
fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phare_de_Cap_Couronne
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Popular around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues
Tips from the Community
An iconic spot for photography and sunset enthusiasts
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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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From Cap Couronne you can enjoy a wonderful view along the Côte Bleue and, in good weather, you can see as far as Marseille. There is a paved road leading to the lighthouse and the car park there. The cape itself is rocky at its very tip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues?
The region boasts diverse natural landscapes. You can discover the picturesque Érevine Cove with its turquoise waters, the dramatic limestone formations and caves in the Vallons du Saut and de la Valtrède, and the extensive trails of the Massif forestier de la chaîne de la Nerthe. The Étang de Bolmon and Site Barlatier-Patafloux offer a protected natural area rich in flora and fauna, often referred to as a 'mini Camargue'.
Are there good hiking opportunities in the area?
Yes, Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues offers excellent hiking. The Érevine Cove is part of a scenic coastal trail. The Massif forestier de la chaîne de la Nerthe provides numerous trails, including a starting point for the GR13 metropolitan trail at Plage du Jaï. You can also find trails around the Étang de Bolmon and the Vallons du Saut and de la Valtrède. For more hiking options, explore the nearby hiking routes.
What historical sites can I visit in Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues?
The area is rich in history. You can explore the remains of the feudal 'Castrum Novum' castle at Le Castellas, which dates back to the 11th century. The Chapel Sainte-Cécile is considered the town's oldest building, potentially from the 8th century. Additionally, the Museum of the Friends of Castrum Vetus offers insights into the region's past with archaeological finds from prehistoric, Celto-Ligurian, and Gallo-Roman periods.
Are there any ancient ruins or archaeological sites to explore?
Yes, the region is known for its prehistoric heritage. Visitors can explore ancient diggings such as 'la Font des Pigeons,' 'Fortin du Saut,' and the 'Déboussadou grottoes.' 'La Font des Pigeons' is recognized as one of the oldest prehistoric sites around the Étang de Berre.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities available?
For family entertainment, Eldorado City Leisure Park offers a unique Far West-themed village experience, complete with a beach and swimming facilities. The Port of Carro is also considered family-friendly, offering a tranquil harbor and weekend fish markets.
Where can I find the best views around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues?
For superb panoramic views, visit the area around Fort de Niolon Haut, even though the fortress itself cannot be entered. The Érevine Cove also offers beautiful coastal vistas with its small offshore island. The Cap Couronne Lighthouse provides exceptional coastal views, especially if you walk on the rocks around it.
What kind of wildlife can I observe in the region?
The Étang de Bolmon and Site Barlatier-Patafloux, often called a 'mini Camargue,' are excellent for wildlife observation. You can spot a variety of birds, including flamingos, egrets, and herons, along with unique plant species. Marked trails and observatories are available for visitors to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna.
Where can I go cycling or gravel biking near Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues?
The region offers several cycling opportunities. The Massif forestier de la chaîne de la Nerthe has numerous trails suitable for cycling. You can also find routes around the Étang de Berre and Étang de Bolmon, such as the 'Jaï Beach – Bolmon Pond loop.' For detailed routes, explore the cycling, road cycling, and gravel biking routes available in the area.
Are there any beaches or swimming spots?
Yes, the Lido du Jaï, which separates the Étang de Berre and Étang de Bolmon, features the Plage du Jaï, a popular beach for swimming and relaxation. The Érevine Cove also offers beautiful turquoise waters, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.
What is the best time of year to visit Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues for outdoor activities?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with milder temperatures ideal for hiking and cycling. Summers can be hot, but are perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities. Winters are typically mild, allowing for year-round exploration, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural scenery, especially the crystal-clear waters and beautiful landscapes found at places like Érevine Cove. The tranquil atmosphere of the Port of Carro and the exceptional coastal views from sites like Cap Couronne Lighthouse are also highly rated. Many enjoy the rewarding experience of exploring the diverse trails and historical sites.
Is there a museum dedicated to the local history?
Yes, the Museum of the Friends of Castrum Vetus (Musée des Amis de Castrum Vetus) provides a comprehensive look into the region's past. It houses archaeological finds from prehistoric, Celto-Ligurian, and Gallo-Roman periods, alongside exhibits on local geology and the history of the town's lords.
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Most popular attractions around Châteauneuf-Les-Martigues
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