Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie
A picturesque cove near Marseille, perfect for swimming in clean waters and enjoying scenic picnics on rocky shores.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful light, fewer crowds
Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie
Best Time
Beautiful light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque cove near Marseille, perfect for swimming in clean waters and enjoying scenic picnics on rocky shores.
"Best spot to swim near the city, very clean water, and usually protected from the wind."
👟 Wear Shoes for Swimming
Rocky shores mean shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit from the water.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
The rocks are perfect for a scenic meal. Grab supplies from the nearby casino if needed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Picnic on the Rocks
Rocky shores
Enjoy a scenic picnic with stunning views, even on a cloudy day. A perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Crystal Clear Swimming
The cove
Dive into exceptionally clean water, often protected from the wind. A refreshing escape near the city.
The Ledge Walk
Along the cove's edge
Watch as people traverse the ledge, adding a unique visual element to this historic cove.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Footwear for the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting France and Marseille for the first time next month!
👟 Wear Shoes for Swimming
Rocky shores mean shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit from the water.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
The rocks are perfect for a scenic meal. Grab supplies from the nearby casino if needed.
A few questions (September trip)
Tourist tips
🚗 Consider Transport
Easily accessible by bike or bus, avoiding car traffic.
☀️ Morning Light is Best
Experience the most beautiful light and fewer people in the early hours.
Calanques Early August? One day in Marseille Tips?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Shoes for Swimming
Rocky shores mean shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit from the water.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
The rocks are perfect for a scenic meal. Grab supplies from the nearby casino if needed.
🚗 Consider Transport
Easily accessible by bike or bus, avoiding car traffic.
☀️ Morning Light is Best
Experience the most beautiful light and fewer people in the early hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie is celebrated for its gorgeous scenery and exceptionally clean swimming waters, making it a top spot for picnics and a refreshing dip near the city. While its natural beauty is undeniable, visitors note that it can become quite crowded and noisy during the peak summer months of July and August.
"so gorgeous. awesome for picnics on the rocks, even on a cloudy day. wow!!!!!"
Caleigh Andrews
"Best spot to swim near the city, very clean water, and usually protected from the wind. Never seen a jellyfish either!"
Brady Welch
"Cool"
Patin Futur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie is well-served by public transport. You can easily reach it by bike or bus, making it a convenient option for visitors looking to avoid car traffic.
While parking might be available, reviews suggest that fewer cars are preferred, and public transport options like buses and bikes are highly recommended for easier access and a better experience.
Depending on your starting point in Marseille, walking might be an option, but it's a significant distance. Taking a bus is generally a more practical and quicker way to reach the cove from the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie is a natural cove and typically does not have an entrance fee. It's a public space for swimming and enjoying the scenery.
As a natural cove, Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie does not have set opening hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie is a public access area, and no reservations are required.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The water at Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie is described as very clean and usually protected from the wind, making it an excellent spot for swimming. Visitors have also noted a lack of jellyfish.
It's highly recommended to wear shoes for swimming and for navigating the rocky terrain around the cove. This will protect your feet when entering and exiting the water.
While beautiful, the rocky nature of the cove might require extra supervision for very young children. However, it's a great spot for families who enjoy swimming and picnicking.
Absolutely! The rocks surrounding the cove are perfect for picnics. It's a popular activity, especially outside of the peak summer season.
The morning offers beautiful light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful visit and picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the gorgeous views of the cove, the clear water, and the unique ledge where people walk. The morning light provides a particularly beautiful atmosphere for photography.
In high season (July and August), it can get very crowded, which might impact photo opportunities. Visiting outside these months or early in the morning will yield better results.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient to capture the beauty. Consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the cove and surrounding landscape. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable if you plan to swim.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is a fantastic idea, as the rocky shores provide a scenic spot for a family meal. Visiting outside of peak summer months (July/August) or early in the morning will help avoid the largest crowds, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone. The cove is easily accessible by bus or bike, which can be a convenient way to travel with children.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Marseille
Plan to arrive early in the morning to enjoy the beautiful light and fewer people, ideal for a leisurely picnic on the rocks. Remember to bring water shoes for a comfortable swimming experience in the clear, clean waters. The cove provides a wonderful opportunity to experience Marseille's coastal beauty beyond the main city attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Cove
The surrounding rocky landscape provides a unique setting for relaxation and picnics. Visitors often describe the experience as 'gorgeous,' even on overcast days. The cove also has a distinctive feature: a ledge that people walk along, adding a dynamic visual element to the scene. This combination of natural beauty, excellent swimming conditions, and interesting topography makes Anse de la Fausse-Monnaie a noteworthy destination for those exploring the Marseille coastline.
Navigating and Enjoying Your Visit
When it comes to timing, avoiding the peak summer months of July and August is often suggested for a more peaceful experience. Visitors who have gone during these times note that it can become very crowded and noisy. Instead, aiming for visits outside of high season or during the early morning is recommended. The morning light is described as beautiful, and the crowds are significantly thinner, making it ideal for activities like picnicking on the rocks.
Accessibility is generally good, with the cove being well served by bike or bus. This makes it an environmentally friendly and convenient option, especially as some reviews mention a desire for fewer cars in the area. A small casino nearby offers convenience for any last-minute needs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit