Martigues is the 4th most popular tourist resort in the Bouches-du-Rhône department and is without doubt one of the star destinations in the south of France. Between the banks of the Etang de Berre and the Mediterranean coast, this little paradise of authenticity and nature is the ideal place to set up your parasol for a sunny holiday.
Ah, Martigues... The emblematic destination of Provence, located between Fos-sur-Mer and Marseille, Martigues is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seaside resorts on the Côte Bleue. What makes it so popular is above all its absolutely charming setting and its history. The heart of the city and its three districts, Jonquières, Ferrières and the Island, reveal to the onlookers an incredible archaeological heritage and a contemporary architecture, which intermingle and give to Martigues an outstanding character. Through these alleys, you can discover the history of the city, from the Gallo-Roman era to the 21st century. The star of Martigues is undoubtedly its picturesque Miroir aux Oiseaux: emblematic of this Provençal Venice, this small harbour, listed since 1942, has inspired many artists and continues to make the reputation of Martigues beyond the borders of the village. Its carnival, its canals and its small lake which earned it the nickname of "Miroir aux Oiseaux" (Birds' Mirror), lined with singular fishermen's houses with pink and ochre coloured facades, constitute a perfect postcard of your holidays in Martigues. Extend your walk along the Saint-Sébastien canal, and don't miss visiting some of the town's most famous monuments: the 17th century church of Sainte-Madeleine, the Saint-Genest church from the same period, but also the Annonciade chapel of the Pénitents Blancs, not forgetting the singular house of the gendarme hat, the Gallic village, and the Ziem museum for its collections of contemporary art, archaeology and impressionist painting. Visit the Fort de Bouc at the mouth of the Caronte canal, and after having taken the time to dine on the terrace near the Saint-Sébastien canal, take a walk by the superb La Couronne lighthouse when the sun sets on the Grande Bleue.
Martigues on the sea side also has many trump cards up its sleeve. Star of the Blue Coast, Martigues holds its reputation of its beaches all more beautiful than the others. To discover them, you can opt for a walk along the coastal path (62 kilometres long), an outing on the Etang de Berre, or a commented excursion on a boat from the Mediterranean. As far as water sports are concerned, in addition to swimming and relaxing under the generous sun of Provence, you will be spoilt for choice: an introduction to scuba diving, a jet-skiing session, windsurfing... Unless you prefer to have fun with your family on towed buoys, discover the coast in a canoe, go out to sea for a fishing session, go sailing, flyboarding, surfing, paddle-boating, water-skiing... Among other things! So... Have you decided?
