After spending an incredible week in the Dolomites, and sadly saying good-bye to my friend, I felt the need for sun, sand & salt water. Knowing I needed to travel towards England, I chose to take the train & explore the south of France. Marseille provided all three and did not disappoint!
When talking about the French Riviera, most people think of Monaco or Nice, while Marseille has the reputation of being a bit rough around the edges. Maybe I’m a little rough around the edges too, because I really felt at home in Marseille. The people were lovely & the vibe was very chill. I seemed to naturally ease into a morning routine of coffee and croissant at a cafe on my way to Ft. Saint-Jean where I would prop myself up on the sea wall with a book or sudoku, watching the boats navigate the harbour entrance.
This was followed-up with a walk to Notre Dame de la Garde, a stroll through the Cours Julien district or through the shopping district and markets to Eglise Saint-Vincent de Paul. Most afternoons included laying on the beach and swimming for a few hours at Plage des Catalans.
After a short rest at the hostel, in the historic Le Panier district, I would head out for an evening stroll, always ending at the Cathedrale la Major to watch the sunset with the locals. As the sun went down families, children and lovers would congregate to dance, play soccer or enjoy some intimacy and a glass of wine.
As recommended, one day I took the train to Cassis, rented a Lime bike at the station & rode to the Calanque de Port Pin trail-head. After a 30 minute walk along the rocky coast, I arrived at a stunning beach and rocky outcrop to swim and lay in the warm September sun. It was really an amazing day, one I could easily re-live over and over.
I really enjoyed Marseille! Wherever I decide to land in the future, I am pretty sure it will need to include some salt water close by.
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