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Cassis
The quaint hilltop town of Cassis, located to the east of Marseille in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southern France. A scenic panorama of the Mediterranean welcomes visitors, as well as famous cliffs and calanques.
The unique calanques, cliffs and creeks, are often a motor-boat ride away from the coast are familiar sites in the area. These natural rock formations in fact safeguard the port town from the forceful sea winds that occassionally come by.
The ancient village which now sits the Cassis of the present was first occupied between 500 and 600 BC by the Ligures who had constructed a fortified homes. In the Roman era, it was no surprise the the proximity to Marseille made the town part of the Emperor Pius’ route when travelling by sea. Later on the strategic location of the city made it part of an agreement by King Rene, as it was ceded to the Bishops of Marseille.
Today, Cassis is known as a wine-making town, as one of the first three vineyards to profit from the strict certification of the appellation d'origine contrôlée (label of controlled origin) introduced in 1936. It is typical for locals to enjoy a glass of local vintage while taking pleasure in its scenic views onto the water.
It is also known as an artist magnet, attracting wordsmiths such as American novelist Henry Miller and playright Virginia Woolf. The bohemian energy still runs wild here, visitors can experience and look forward to the artists’ market. Guests are invited to sample local fare over a glass of wine with such rhapsodic company—be it the rustic taste of the sea with the ripe produce in garlic and olive oil.
