Discover the Frioul Islands with your dog
Want to discover the Frioul Islands with your dog? Between hikes, coves, inlets and wild landscapes facing Marseille, I share with you everything you need to know to organize a getaway to the Frioul Islands with your dog, in the Bouches-du-Rhône.
Taking your dog on holiday to the Frioul Islands is a fantastic idea if you're looking for a dog-friendly destination with stunning scenery near Marseille. People always mention it to me when I go to Marseille with Musher, but I've never actually gone. Thanks to this article, I'll know, and you will too, where to go!
Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department , in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, this archipelago is part of the Calanques National Park and consists of four islands: Pomègues, Ratonneau, the island of If, and Tiboulen du Frioul . The two main islands, Pomègues and Ratonneau, are connected by the Berry dike , which now forms the port of Frioul , while the other two islands are uninhabited and not accessible to the public.
Between coastal paths, beaches, coves and historical heritage, this getaway offers a real change of scenery just a few minutes by boat from the old Port of Marseille.
In this article, I explain how to reach the Frioul Islands with your dog , which hikes to prioritize, and in which coves you can enjoy a swim together.
Table of contents
Practical Memo
Where can I stay near the Frioul Islands with my dog? Here are the closest QUALIDOG-certified accommodations for your holiday with your dog!
Blue Hotel and Spa
With Dog-friendly Restaurant 🐶
Liautaud Hotel
DogFriendly restaurant and walks nearby!
Didn't find what you were looking for in our selection? Here are a few websites where you can find dog-friendly accommodations. They are not QUALIDOG-certified partners, so I don't know their standards of hospitality.
- If you're exploring the Frioul Islands in the height of summer, a few well-chosen items can make all the difference to your dog's well-being. Discover our selection of freshness accessories to help it cope with the heat of the archipelago. However, if it gets too hot, it's best to keep it cool so it doesn't burn its paws!
- Beware of the sun and the scorching heat on the Frioul trails! Discover our guide to preventing heatstroke.
- Also beware of processionary caterpillars during your walk in Friuli: their urticating hairs are deadly for your dog. Find out more in our article. emergency actions to take immediately in case of contact.
How to get to the Frioul Islands with your dog?
Reaching the Frioul Islands with your dog is very simple and is an excellent idea for a dog-friendly getaway from Marseille.
To reach the archipelago, simply take one of the ferry services that run year-round between Marseille's Old Port and the Frioul Islands. Dogs are welcome on board , making it easy to plan a day trip or a longer stay with your furry friend. However, before you depart, I recommend checking the ferry company's terms and conditions when booking, as they may change.
Boarding takes place at the maritime station located on the Old Port of Marseille, easily accessible on foot or by public transport. The service is operated by Icard Maritime. The crossing takes approximately 30 minutes when direct to the Frioul port. Dogs are welcome on board if kept on a leash, except in exceptional circumstances, and provided the captain is notified before boarding.
The journey is usually pleasant, but keep in mind that the Mediterranean can be rough on some days. If your dog isn't used to being on a boat , a short walk before boarding will help them relax. Also, remember to bring a water bottle , a collapsible bowl , and some treats to make the crossing even more comfortable.
The Frioul Islands lie within the Calanques National Park . Upon arrival, your dog must be kept on a leash to protect the wildlife, flora, and the peace and quiet of other visitors. This rule also prevents your pet from approaching the cliffs or the birds that nest on the archipelago.
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What to do on the Frioul Islands with your dog?
The Frioul islands offer magnificent hikes, exceptional panoramas and several walks accessible with a dog.
The first route I recommend is the loop around Pomègues Island . It's probably the most spectacular hike in the archipelago . The trail runs along limestone cliffs, crosses typical Mediterranean vegetation made up of garrigue and small shrubs, and then offers magnificent views of Marseille, the Calanques massif, and the Mediterranean.
As you stroll along, you will discover several historical sites that you can observe from the outside, which bear witness to the islands' military past:
- le Pomègues fort ;
- le semaphore ;
- la Cellars battery ;
- several secluded coves with turquoise waters.
The main route is approximately 5,2 km round trip with 135 meters of elevation gain . It presents no particular technical difficulty and is suitable for most dogs accustomed to walking on stony paths.
Unlike some coves on the mainland, you won't find any ladders, chains, or climbing sections to reach the main viewpoints. However, the paths remain very rocky and offer little shade. I therefore advise you to set off early in the morning, especially in summer, and to bring enough water for yourself and your dog, as there are virtually no water sources on the island.
If you're looking for a shorter walk, head to Ratonneau Island , closer to the port. The trails pass through several old military structures before arriving at the impressive Caroline Hospital , a former lazaretto built in the 19th century to house travelers placed in quarantine.
From the various viewpoints in Ratonneau, you and your dog can enjoy superb panoramic views of:
- Marseille;
- the Château d'If;
- the Calanques massif;
- the islets of Tiboulen.
These viewpoints allow you to appreciate the full beauty of this archipelago located just a few kilometers from the city, while giving the impression of already being at the end of the world.
After your hike, take some time to stroll around the small port of Frioul . The atmosphere is peaceful and a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of Marseille's Old Port. You'll find a few restaurants and shops, as well as a particularly pleasant island village feel.
It's an ideal place to take a break before getting back on the boat or simply to admire the pleasure boats sailing in the port.
💡 Many visitors also take advantage of their trip to discover the famous Château d'If. While your dog is welcome on the shuttle buses that serve the monument, it unfortunately won't be able to visit the inside of the fortress . If you're traveling alone with your pet, it's therefore best to spend your day exploring the Frioul Islands rather than visiting the castle.
👉 To continue exploring the Calanques with your dog, feel free to consult our article: Where to hike with your dog in the Calanques?
Which beaches on the Frioul islands are dog-friendly?
The Frioul islands are among the few areas of Marseille where several coves and small beaches are accessible to dogs.
Unlike many beaches on the Marseille coastline, several coves in Frioul welcome dogs, provided they remain on a leash and everyone respects this exceptional natural site.
- If I had to choose just one, I would unhesitatingly recommend the Calanque de la CrineOften considered the most beautiful cove Located in the Frioul Islands, it charms with its crystal-clear water, unspoiled surroundings, and generally quieter atmosphere compared to beaches near the port. Allow approximately one hour walk To reach it from the port of Frioul, the trail presents no major difficulties, but it is entirely exposed to the sun. Therefore, remember to bring enough water for your dog, as there are no water sources along the way.
- If you are looking for faster access, the Ratonneau cove constitutes an excellent alternative. Located near the main trailsIt allows you to take a swimming break after a short walk.
- La Eoube cove is more discreet and offers a particularly peaceful atmosphereThis is a good choice if you prefer to avoid the most crowded places and enjoy a more natural setting with your companion.
- You can also reach the beach of Frioul Cape, a small rocky beach Appreciated for its relatively easy access. However, as the rocks can be slippery and the pebbles sometimes abrasive to the pads of your feet, I recommend that you to remain vigilant when your dog enters the water.
Several other coves are accessible along the Pomègues and Ratonneau trails. Some require a few extra minutes of walking or a short descent on rocky terrain, but none require crossing ladders or technical passages like those found in some calanques on the mainland.
🌳 Before laying down your towel, please remember that you are in a protected natural area. Pick up after your dog, keep it on a leash, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife so that everyone can continue to enjoy this exceptional setting.
Discovering the Frioul Islands with your dog means enjoying a unique dog-friendly destination where hiking, coves, inlets and exceptional panoramas come together at the gates of Marseille, in the Bouches-du-Rhône.
For a successful stay on this archipelago, don't forget the QUALIDOG accommodations I mentioned at the top of the article : they are perfect for your holidays with your dog before or after your getaway to Frioul, and are waiting for you.
Have you ever explored the Frioul Islands with your four-legged friend? Share your best walks, favorite coves, and tips in the comments to help future visitors! 👇