Climbing

Climbing in the Calanques

1_max_escalade_traversee_des_lames_-les_goudes_-_maxime_berenger_2.jpg — © M. Berenger - Parc national des Calanques

2_pf_escalade_traversee_des_lames_-_les_goudes_-_maxime_berenger_2.jpg — © M. Berenger - Parc national des Calanques

Offering a wide variety of routes to explore, the Calanques National Park is a climber's paradise. The Calanques cliffs are also home to exceptional biodiversity, whose presence invites you to practice climbing with the greatest respect.

Before you leave

Before going into the National Park, plan your visit: find out about the access conditions, check out the route and ensure you are well-equipped (good walking shoes, enough water, sun protection, etc.).
Climbing requires specialist equipment. The rope, harness, descender, straps and carabiners are compulsory equipment. Climbing shoes are essential to adhere to and progress on the route.

Best practices

Stay on the paths to access the tracks so as not to trample the flora.
Avoid cutting through scree to protect the flora.
Take care not to put your bag and equipment on the vegetation at the foot of the tracks: there may be protected species present.
Climb discreetly so as not to disturb the wildlife fauna on the rocks: ensure you climb quietly.

Regulations

Respect the permanent closure of the following sites: crumbling ridge areas in Sormiou, Calanque des Pierres tombées, Muraille de Chine and Riou archipelago. Consult the interactive map of permanent prohibited areas.
Respect the temporary closure of sites which protect nesting birds. Ensure you are up-to-date by consulting the interactive map of temporary prohibited areas, updates on the website and the app Mes Calanques (by joining the climbing community).
Remain vigilant when accessing the climbing area by using the marked paths, in particular those presenting the blue climber logo.
Inform the National Park of any work project related to climbing: equipment or maintenance of routes, opening of access paths to cliffs, installation of facilities. The installation of via ferrata and via cordata is forbidden in the Calanques.

CAUTION

The closure of the massif due to fire risk also concerns climbers.

Safety

Organise your trip using recently published reference resources to give you accurate information about the condition of the routes.
Choose your climbing routes in accordance with your experience and abilities.
Always check the weather conditions.
Take at last 1.5 litres of water per ½ day and enough food.
Wear a helmet to protect you from any impact.
Inform family and friends about your trip.