Discover the Ultimate Experience: Why Visit Marseille for Just One Thing
I had always heard that Marseille was a bit of a sleepy town, but the allure of its hiking trails piqued my interest. On a whim, my sister and I decided to explore the stunning Parc national des Calanques.
After sifting through countless online routes, we settled on the Sormiou Fjord, known for its breathtaking views. The journey from the park entrance to our destination took us a grueling four hours, largely due to an unexpected detour and our inexperience. By the end, we were practically crawling, exhausted by the rugged and steep mountain paths, sharp pebbles, and the lack of guardrails.
It made me appreciate the well-paved trails in China, even if they are a result of overdevelopment. My sister and I were nearly at our breaking point, feeling dizzy and seeing stars. Most of the hikers we encountered on their way back were well-equipped, while we, the only two Asians, were tackling the trail with nothing but sheer determination.
It just goes to show the resilience and strength of Chinese women [AngryR].
Reaching Calanque de Sormiou, however, was like stepping into a dream. The turquoise sea looked almost surreal, especially as the sun began to set, casting a magical, shimmering light across the water. It was truly a slice of paradise, and it’s no wonder so many people flock here for a getaway. Being in such close proximity to nature is indeed the best form of therapy.
A small, yet memorable, incident: After our hike, we faced the daunting task of retracing our steps back to the entrance. Exhausted and with the sun setting, we felt a sense of desperation. My sister was already contemplating calling 911 when a kind and enthusiastic French gentleman, upon hearing our plight, offered to drive us home (tears [CryingR]).
This act of kindness was a highlight of our trip and a reminder of the warmth of human connection. But it also serves as a cautionary tale for future hikers: always plan your route and time carefully, and don’t end up in a precarious situation like we did [FacepalmR].
Some tips for novice hikers:
1. **Route**: For your first hike, opt for an easier trail. Don’t overexert yourself. The national park has color-coded markers to guide you.
2. **Download the App**: Mes Calanques. The app provides offline location and route references, which are invaluable given the poor signal in the mountains.
3. **Equipment**: Bring plenty of water and energy drinks🥤. Knee pads and other protective gear, along with hiking poles, are essential, especially when you’re running low on energy.
Enjoy the adventure, but always prioritize safety [PartyR].
