Most excursions in Provence put you on a coach. This one puts you behind the wheel of a small open-top vehicle, with the freedom to stop wherever the view demands. The route heads out of Marseille past the Calanques and over to Cassis, and the highlight is the Route des Crêtes, the corniche road that climbs along Cap Canaille, whose cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in France. With the roof down, the white limestone, the blue of the Mediterranean and the scent of pines make the drive a sightseeing attraction in its own right. The experience is aimed at groups of one to four and is priced per group rather than per person, which makes it good value for a family or a group of friends. At 5.0 from 250 reviews, it is one of the most highly rated activities in the city. The excursion lasts between five and seven hours, so there is time for a stop in Cassis for lunch and a stroll around the harbour, a swim if the weather allows, and a long, unhurried return. The exact route, the vehicle and the rental conditions are set by the operator and are shown on the product page.
How it works
You collect the vehicle at the departure point named on the product page and drive a suggested route with a guide pack, map or navigation arrangement that the operator explains. A valid driving licence is required, and age and experience rules apply, so check the product page for the minimum driver age, deposit and insurance arrangements before you book. Drivers should be comfortable on narrow, winding roads and on the right-hand side of the road.
Road conditions
The Route des Crêtes is a famous scenic road, but it can be closed in strong wind or in fire-risk conditions, and the operator will advise on alternatives if so. The mistral blows hard along the coast and makes an open-top drive chilly, so take a jacket outside high summer. In midsummer the heat and the traffic into Cassis can be intense, so an early start is the best remedy, and parking in Cassis is limited, so allow time to find a space.
Making the most of it
Choose this excursion if you enjoy driving, want to travel at your own pace and are travelling with up to four people. It is less suited to travellers who prefer a guide to explain what they are seeing, in which case the small-group tour to Cassis and Aix or a boat trip in the Calanques is a better choice. Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear and water, and follow the operator’s rules on fuel. Because Cassis is a lively harbour town, save your appetite for lunch there.
What to expect
The experience
A self-drive open-top excursion for one to four people from Marseille to Cassis and the Calanques along the Route des Crêtes.
Best time
A clear, calm day in spring or autumn, or an early start in summer.
How long
Five to seven hours, including time in Cassis.
Tips
Bring a valid driving licence, check age and deposit rules on the product page, and carry a jacket for the wind.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Confident drivers who want a flexible, scenic day for up to four people.
- Families
- Good for a family of four, as the price is per group; check age rules for children and for the driver.
- Couples
- An open-top coastal drive and lunch in Cassis is a very romantic day.
- Pair with
- Cassis harbour and a swim, or the Calanques National Park on another day.
- Time needed
- Five to seven hours.
Good questions
Do I need a driving licence?+
Yes, a valid licence is required, and the operator sets age and experience rules. Check the product page for the minimum age, deposit and insurance details.
Is the price per person?+
The product is priced per group of one to four people rather than per person.
What is the Route des Crêtes?+
A scenic road that runs along the sea cliffs of Cap Canaille towards Cassis. It can close in strong wind or fire-risk conditions.
How long does the excursion take?+
Between five and seven hours, depending on how long you spend in Cassis and on the road.
What if the mistral is blowing?+
Strong wind makes the open-top drive chilly and can close the cliff road. Take a jacket and follow the operator’s advice.
