* Marseille : The Oldest City in France

Founded by the Phoenicians’ over two millennia ago, the Mediterranean seaport of Marseilles bears many relics from a rich and varied past. From the Canebiere boulevard in the cosmopolitan city centre, climb up to the Basilica towering over the city, known affectionately to the locals as their “Bonne Mere” protector figure. In the bay lie the tiny islands of the Frioul archipelago, harbouring the infamous Chateau d’If fortress, whilst neighbouring Cassis boasts scenic beauty unrivalled in the form of the dramatic calanques cliffs.

3 days / 90 km

Ref: 11B005

Dates

April , May , June , July , August , September , October

D1 Marseilles Highlights and « Savon de Marseille » (20 km)

Lunch of the group in Marseilles. Sightseeing tour taking in the harbour, Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, and the ancient St Victor Abbey, founded in the 5th century on the tomb of a Christian martyr. Pure and natural Marseilles soap has been made locally for centuries and traditional methods have to be respected to earn the ”savon de Marseille” stamp. Visit a soap manufacturer’s to witness the process fist hand. Dinner and overnight.

D2 Château d’If Fortress and Marseille Pastries (40 km)

Boat trip in group from Marseilles to the famous Chateau d’If on the tiny offshore isle of the same name, made famous by Alexander Dumas’ classic novel, and its fictional hero who was imprisoned here for over a decade: The Count of Monte Cristo. Lunch on the harbour or « Vieux port » (bouillabaise an optional extra). Visit the oldest bakery in town, “La Four des Navettes”, and sample traditional pastries made in the shape of a small boat, recalling the arrival of the Saint Maries in Provence.

D3 Cassis and the Calanques (30 km)

Head for Cassis via the Col de la Gineste crest road affording fabulous views over the Mediterranean. Boat trip to the dramatic “Calanques”, fjord like inlets with limpid turquoise waters in the rugged, chalky white cliffs. Free time to explore the little fishing village before lunch.