A short boat trip from Marseille brings you to the Frioul archipelago, a group of four rocky islands off the coast. Pomègues and Ratonneau are linked by a dyke and have walking paths, coves and beaches for a day outdoors. Swim or snorkel in the clear water, and look for the 19th-century Caroline Hospital on Ratonneau. Château d’If, on a separate island, is tied to the story of The Count of Monte Cristo. Bring water and shoes suited to rocky ground.
The islands off Marseille
The Frioul archipelago lies off Marseille and consists of four islands: Pomègues, Ratonneau, If and Tiboulen. The boat journey from the Old Port takes about 20 to 30 minutes, based on reported trips. Pomègues and Ratonneau, the two main islands for walking and swimming, are connected by a dyke. The islands are car-free, with paths through a rugged coastal landscape of cliffs and coves.
You can make the trip a short walk or spend much of the day exploring. One reported visit to two islands took around five hours, while another described a couple of hours of walking. Bring water and snacks if you plan to stay out on the trails.
Walking, swimming and the Caroline Hospital
The paths on Pomègues and Ratonneau pass rocky coastline and open views over the sea. In summer, the coves are places to swim and snorkel. Saint-Estève Beach is another option for a beach stop; rocky shores make sturdy footwear or water shoes useful.
On Ratonneau, look for the old Caroline Hospital. The 19th-century building was used as a quarantine hospital to help keep yellow fever out of Marseille. The islands are a natural reserve, so take your rubbish with you and treat the wildlife with care.
Château d’If and the return to Marseille
Château d’If stands on If, a separate island in the archipelago. The 16th-century fortress later served as a prison and is known from Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo. A guided visit is one way to explore the historic site; boat access and conditions can depend on the wind.
The main island’s port has bars and restaurants, useful after a walk or swim. If you want to finish the outing with views from the water, a sunset return boat trip is an option, subject to the ferry schedule.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you get to the Frioul archipelago from Marseille?
Take a boat from Marseille’s Old Port. The crossing is reported to take about 20 to 30 minutes.
How long should you spend on the islands?
Allow a couple of hours for a walk, or around five hours to explore two islands at a more leisurely pace. A full day gives you time for walking and swimming.
Can you swim in the Frioul archipelago?
Yes. The islands have coves and beaches for swimming and snorkeling, especially in summer. Many shorelines are rocky.
Is Château d’If part of the Frioul archipelago?
Yes. It is on If, one of the four islands, and is known for its 16th-century fortress and connection to The Count of Monte Cristo.
