Visit La Ciotat: the seaside resort of culture, nature and relaxation
Between culture, unspoiled nature, and relaxation, La Ciotat is the ultimate sunny destination. Located on the border of the Bouches-du-Rhône and Var departments, it surprises visitors with the diversity of its landscapes: from the vertiginous Soubeyranes cliffs to the turquoise waters of the Figuerolles cove. Known worldwide for its revolutionary inventions such as cinema and pétanque, the city of La Ciotat is also the ideal starting point for exploring the French Riviera.
Visit La Ciotat to appreciate nature at its peak
More beautiful and authentic than ever, La Ciotat is a dazzling destination full of surprises. Nestled at the end of a crescent-shaped bay, it lies near a vast limestone syncline that forms the Montagne de la Canaille to the west and the 390-meter-high Soubeyranes cliffs, among the highest in France and Europe. The bay of La Ciotat has become part of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the WorldIt's simple: if you're looking for a paradise seaside resort, this is where you need to go.
A stop in the Figuerolles cove
To the west of the city center lies the Figuerolles cove, a place not to be missed when visiting. visit La Ciotat. The beach is the ideal starting point for all kinds of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. This cove is also popular for its spectacular scenery, where ochre rocks meet waters of varying shades of turquoise.
Between sea and nature in Mugel Park
Take advantage of your time in the west of the city to visit the Mugel Park. Created in 1923 at the behest of Louis Fouquet, this verdant space covers 16 hectares and is home to an astonishing variety of plant species, including bamboo, cacti, birds of paradise, palm trees, and all sorts of aromatic plants. During your stroll, you can admire the green island located directly opposite from a viewpoint 82 meters above sea level.
A tour of the green island
La Ciotat still has many treasures to reveal. If you're a photography enthusiast, don't miss the boat trip on the...Green Island. However, a sea crossing is required to reach the island, departing from the Old Port of La Ciotat via the Aquilade shuttle. A 2 km marked trail will allow you to appreciate the beauty of the landscapes and enjoy the Calanque de la Plageolle, Seynerolles, or the remains of Fort Saint Pierre. The breathtaking view of the harbor and the Bec de l'Aigle (Eagle's Beak) will provide the perfect opportunity to take stunning photographs.
La Ciotat: a city of inventions
The cultural history of La Ciotat is inseparable from the work of Lumiere brothers. From the late XNUMXth century onwards, these Lyon industrialists chose the setting of their villa in La Ciotat, the Château du Clos des Plages, to produce the first color photographs and films that laid the foundations of world cinema, such as Baby's Meal ou Arrival of a train in La Ciotat station (1895).
The city is also home to the Eden Theatre, recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest operating cinema, and listed as a supplementary historical monument since 1996, the establishment reopened on October 9, 2013, after a major renovation sponsored by Bertrand Tavernier. It now houses a museum space (Lumière – Michel Simon) and holds the CNC's "Art and Essay," Heritage, and Young Audience labels.
In parallel, the municipality is the historical birthplace of pétanque. Born in 1910 on the grounds of the Pitiot brothers, this family sport was conceived to accommodate Jules Lenoir's rheumatism. Allowed to be played in a fixed position, with feet anchored ("tanqués") to the ground, it gave rise to a global discipline, a historical event celebrated by a commemorative plaque on the grounds of "La Boule étoilée".
Visit La Ciotat and its surroundings
Want to discover other treasures around La Ciotat? Private drivers from EDEN CAB are at your disposal to take you to the most beautiful destinations in Provence and beyond.
Visit the village of Cassis
From La Ciotat, treat yourself to a getaway of approximately 11 km towards Cassis, this famous Provençal village nestled between the sea, vineyards and cliffs. Borrow the famous Crest road aboard your Mercedes van or sedan from EDEN CAB and enjoy the breathtaking panorama from the summit of Cape Canaille, one of the highest cliffs in Europe. Once you arrive in Cassis, head to the traditional fishing port with its colorful facades, enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant with a glass of Cassis AOC white wine, or take a break at the famous Calanque d'En-Vau from Port-Miou.
Immersion in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer
Just 15 km from La Ciotat, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is accessible in about twenty minutes aboard your van or luxury sedan from EDEN CAB. It's the perfect destination for its authentic atmosphere. Discover:
- The fishing port "La Madrague" with its sublime sunset;
- The bay of Les Lecques with its fine sandy beach;
- The Calanque de Port d'Alon surrounded by pine trees and crystal clear water;
- The coastal path between Bandol and Saint-Cyr-sur-mer offers breathtaking panoramas.
Getaway to Toulon
Toulon is also a beautiful destination, 35 minutes from La Ciotat via the A50 motorway. Among the must-see attractions:
- The Toulon harbor, which is one of the most beautiful in the world;
- Mount Faron which offers a spectacular view of the city and the harbor;
- The beaches of Mourillon to the east
- The Rue des Arts, which boasts numerous art galleries, designer boutiques, and lively terraces.
Want to discover La Ciotat without stress?
Don't let winding roads and the search for parking ruin your getaway. Settle into the comfort of our luxury sedans and vans. Our private chauffeurs EDEN CAB They take care of everything to guarantee you a smooth, serene and high-end journey.
