Corniche Kennedy

The Corniche Kennedy is the seafront road and promenade that runs along the southern coast of Marseille, from the old fishing quarter of the Vallon des Auffes to the long beaches of the Prado, and it is the place where the city shows its face to the Mediterranean. The route runs for about five kilometres, with a road on the inland side and a wide pavement on the sea side, behind a low wall, and its whole length offers open views across the water to the islands of the Frioul archipelago, the Château d'If and the rocky coast. It is named after the American president, John F. Kennedy, and it has long been a favourite place for locals to stroll, jog, cycle and watch the sunset.

The promenade is not a single sight but a sequence of them. At the northern end, near the Plage des Catalans, a small city beach, the Vallon des Auffes is a tiny harbour tucked between the rocks, where fishermen's cabins, small wooden boats and fish restaurants cluster under a high road bridge, and it is a charming and surprisingly quiet corner so close to the city. A short way on, the Monument aux Morts de l'Armée d'Orient, a large memorial erected after the First World War, stands on the cliff and gives a view over the bay. Farther along, the coast road passes elegant villas, small coves where swimmers dive from the rocks, and the Anse de Malmousque, a quiet inlet with a few houses and a place to bathe. From several points, you can see the shape of the Calanques massif in the distance, a reminder of the national park that lies just beyond the city.

The southern end of the Corniche reaches the Prado beaches, a long series of sandy and pebbly stretches with lawns, a promenade, sunbeds, volleyball courts and water sports. A copy of Michelangelo's David stands at the nearby roundabout, a local landmark. Beaches here are popular with families and young people, and in summer they are crowded, but the broad stretch of lawn provides room. The Parc Borély, a park with a château and botanical garden, lies just behind.

The promenade is free and open all hours, and the best time for a walk is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the heat has eased. A good approach is to take the bus or taxi to one end and walk the length, stopping for a swim or a drink, then to return by public transport. In strong mistral winds, the sea can be dramatic, with waves crashing against the rocks, and visitors should keep a safe distance.

The Corniche combines easily with a visit to the city centre. The MuCEM, Le Panier, La Vieille Charité, the Cathédrale La Major and the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur show Marseille's history, while the Musée Cantini and the Musée d'Archéologie Méditerranéenne add art and archaeology. The Calanques National Park is a short bus ride away.

It suits walkers, swimmers, cyclists and anyone who wants fresh sea air in the city.