Between the Mediterranean and the Etang de Berre: a seaside holiday in Martigues
When it comes to dining, romance is everywhere: a terrace along the canals, a beach hut with your feet in the sand, or a lively harbor restaurant facing the fishing boats. For active couples, Martigues is also the perfect starting point for coastal hikes and a playground for water activities: paddleboarding, kayaking, towable tubing, or simply a sunset boat ride. Finally, the cultural heritage of Carro and La Couronne – from ancient stone quarries to Sainte-Croix Chapel and the iconic lighthouse – enriches your Mediterranean getaway.
In Martigues, every day unfolds between sea, nature, and authenticity – creating unforgettable moments for two.
Stay in Martigues facing the sea
Imagine a getaway for two, lulled by the sound of the waves or the soothing calm of the Étang de Berre… In Martigues, accommodations are designed to offer couples the perfect setting where tranquility and authenticity meet. For a typical experience, head to Carro or La Couronne: their holiday rentals, often inspired by fishermen’s cottages, sit right on the seafront. Facing the beaches, these charming houses combine modern comfort with Mediterranean charm, offering stays in tune with sunsets and sea breezes.For lovers of the outdoors, the Côte Bleue campsites such as Les Mouettes, L’Arquet, or Le Mas provide a refreshing escape. Perched on cliffs or near sandy beaches, bungalows open onto endless horizons – the perfect backdrop for evenings spent together.
In the heart of town, furnished rentals reveal sweeping views of the Étang de Berre. Start the day with coffee overlooking shimmering waters, before strolling along the canals of the “Venice of Provence.”
Here, water is ever-present: from the canals to the Mediterranean coast, every accommodation offers unique panoramas, making Martigues the perfect destination for peaceful, romantic stays.
Dine for two by the water: combine local flavors and delightful views in Martigues
In Martigues, every meal for two comes with a taste of authenticity and enchanting scenery. For a typical experience, head to Carro’s harbor. Restaurants here open onto the fishing boats and the lively fish market, serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine in an authentic setting. Some even face the beach, where the sea and sunsets enhance the dining experience.For a laid-back moment with your feet in the sand, try the beach shacks on Ferrières’ city beach. Their terraces look directly out over the Étang de Berre, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a romantic summer dinner.
In the town center, numerous restaurants line the canals, with open-air terraces where the sound of the water creates a romantic atmosphere. Others are located upstairs, offering sweeping views of the Étang de Berre – ideal for a peaceful evening together.
Don’t miss the Île district: its colorful façades and the Church overlooking the Miroir aux Oiseaux or the Canal San Sébastien make for a picturesque dining backdrop. In summer evenings, the Place de la Libération comes alive with restaurants, brasseries, and participatory dances, blending gastronomy with conviviality.
Here, dining as a couple is always a celebration of flavors and views, between sea, lagoon, and canals.
Hikes by the sea: well-being and breathtaking panoramas
In Martigues, seaside hikes are an invitation to well-being, perfect for couples looking to reconnect with nature. The Grand Sentier de la Côte Bleue offers marked coastal loops along the Mediterranean. Between wild coves, rocky cliffs, and fishing villages, these itineraries combine natural beauty with heritage, ideal for peaceful, hand-in-hand walks.For a gentler experience, the “Between Sea and Lagoons” trail runs along the Étang de Berre. The panoramic viewpoints here reveal ever-changing light over this vast inland sea, a soothing spectacle at every step.
From Carro’s harbor, the coastal path stretches to Sausset-les-Pins. Following sandy beaches and rocky inlets, it offers fresh sea air and endless views – a romantic setting for a refreshing walk.
Pilgrims and curious hikers alike will enjoy the “In the Footsteps of Mary Magdalene” route. Passing through Martigues’ canals and coastline, it recalls the legend of her shipwreck on Sainte-Croix beach.
Here, every path becomes a shared journey, between history, landscapes, and serenity.
Nautical adventures and relaxation during shared moments in the coves
In Martigues, water is part of daily life, and couples will find countless ways to create unique memories. A boat ride on the canals is a must: an unusual way to discover the “Venice of Provence.” At sunset, these outings turn into slow tourism experiences, bathed in golden light.For more adventure, the Tourist Office offers affordable rentals of kayaks, paddles, or jet skis. In complete freedom, you can explore the secret coves of the Côte Bleue, swim in intimate spots, and enjoy the Mediterranean at your own pace.
On hot summer days, Martigues and Carry-le-Rouet activity bases offer refreshing thrills: try a towable tube for laughter or wakeboarding for a rush of adrenaline.
Finally, boat trips along the Côte Bleue reveal stunning views of cliffs and coves from the sea.
In Martigues, every nautical outing is a unique couple’s experience, from relaxation to adventure.
Cultural getaway by the sea: discover La Couronne and Carro
For a romantic escape, the seaside villages of La Couronne and Carro are true gems of Martigues. With peaceful atmospheres, small squares, and Mediterranean scents, they embody the authenticity of southern France – perfect for couples seeking calm.La Couronne’s history is shaped by stonecutters whose craft built many of Marseille’s monuments. Their marks remain visible on the village church, while the Baou Tailla quarries in Carro preserve their memory.
Don’t miss Sainte-Croix Chapel, overlooking a sandy beach often voted the best on the Côte Bleue. It combines stunning views with spiritual heritage, recalling the legend of Mary Magdalene’s shipwreck.
Finally, Cap Couronne Lighthouse, the only one on the Côte Bleue and famous from the TV series Camping Paradis, offers an iconic maritime landmark.
Here, authenticity, culture, and seascapes combine for timeless memories as a couple.