Frioul archipelago — Local services in Marseille

My boyfriend and I honestly really really felt like we were missing something when we visited here??? We went to Ratonneau (maybe a different island would’ve been a better idea). It was actually just a bizarre experience, really barren islands, strange fencing everywhere which made it feel like a military base. Beaches with toilet facilities completely shut up for the summer and no water availability aside from at the overpriced restaurants at the port, which meant you couldn’t really stay posted up somewhere for the whole day. There were also school trips with hundreds of noisy disruptive teenagers EVERYWHERE which meant it really wasn’t peaceful at all - we did go on a weekday but were hoping this would make it quieter/less crowded. The views walking between beaches when you got up into the cliffs were the most beautiful aspect but overall the we really didn’t enjoy this.

Unfortunately...

Absolutely AMAZING! Definitely a MUST if you are visiting Marseille. Great views, amazing beaches, landscapes and walking trails. The color of the water is just unbelievable. You need at least a full day to enjoy the islands properly. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring a swimsuit, some snacks and plenty of water. I recommend the guided tour in the Chateaux D’If, and a visit to the old Caroline Hospital. There are also some bars and restaurants by the port in the main island, where you can restore after a long day of walking/sunbathing. If you can, get the ferry back to Marseille at sunset. The view would be...

Bring your own food and beverage, because the restaurants on this island are total tourist traps! Start by either going uphill from the ferry to the trail leading up and around to the beach, or cross the isthmus and walk along the sandy soil to explore worn volcanic rock water access. Beware of sharp rocks at the water's edge and bring sturdy-soled shoes that can protect your feet and be fine getting wet. It cannot be overstated: BRING YOUR OWN FOOD AND WATER. a 1.5 litre bottle of water was 3 euros and the paella restaurant is a bait and switch; the actual meals look nothing like the...