Sandwiched by sea and hills, Carry-le-Rouet boasts an outstanding location.
Between the tangy sea spray and the wooded fragrance of the scrubland, you're never more than a few metres away from... ramblers.
Our wild 'garrigue' or scrubland is the perfect place to walk or hike in summer, soothed by the sound of cicadas, as well as in winter when the landscape is covered in fresh dew as you set out to discover the diverse flora and fauna of the Mediterranean. The hills are part of the Estaque or Nerthe mountain ranges. The white limestone hills stretch some 28 kilometres from Marseille to Martigues, covering 5,553 hectares. The highest peak is to the east at 278 metres altitude. The maritime front of the Estaque range forms the Côte Bleue with its steep shores and deep inlets. Encompassed by rich undergrowth, scrub and garrigue (thyme, rosemary, cistus and other plants) native to the particular climate of the Mediterranean, maritime Aleppo pines, umbrella pines, green oaks and kermes oaks are your natural companions along your walks.
Some sites are particularly noteworthy:
From the port, simply follow Quai Maleville and take the stairs to the right of the lighthouse, called 'Pain de Sucre' (Sugar Loaf), and you'll come to the 'Douaniers' footpath, renamed the 'lizard' trail due to the abundance of the reptiles along the trail. The path leads to Les Beaumettes beach where you can enjoy the crystal-clear, turquoise water in the natural creeks and myriad species of Mediterranean flora. Information panels will tell you all about the plants and animals you might catch a glimpse of en route. A 4-km trail with 70 km net gain, easy level.
East of the village, near Le Rouet beach, you can walk up to the Chapel of Notre Dame du Rouet. Standing on a promontory, it overlooks the creeks as far as Marseille harbour and has watched over sailors since 1653. By going down the stairs and taking the path towards Eaux-Salées creek, you could continue your walk to Niolon: take the Douaniers footpath (GR 51) which runs from your left facing the sea (from Eaux Salées creek). A difficult 16 km trail with net gain of 300 m.
Le Romaron is a perfect destination for families looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town. Five different trails will take you on a tour of the natural wonders of the forests including wild caves, breathtaking views of Mont Carpiagne, Marseilleveyre forest, Frioul archipelago and Planier lighthouse. An orientation table will allow you to pinpoint all the sights and the fragrant garrigue is a welcome companion along your journey. Trails from 5 to 10 km, net gain of 150 to 300 m, easy to average difficulty.
