Ceyreste

Last update on May 14, 2026

Between Cassis (15 km) and Saint-Cyr (18 km) and 5 km north of La Ciotat.

Discover the village of Ceyreste in the Bouches-du-Rhône

Ceyreste is a commune located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, on the border with the Var department.

A quiet and authentic Provençal village, Ceyreste is ideally situated for exploring the beaches of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, the Calanques, Bandol, or Aubagne.

Le village de Ceyreste dans les Bouches du Rhône.

To help you plan your stay, keep in mind that the village offers many attractions in one place: well-preserved medieval heritage, outdoor hiking trails, and direct access to Cap Canaille. The Grand Caunet massif, which overlooks Ceyreste and La Ciotat, offers easy walks through pine forests and scrubland with views of the Mediterranean Sea. Those who enjoy challenging hikes can set out to conquer the Soubeyranes cliffs right from Ceyreste itself.

The Village of Ceyreste

The Church of Saint-Blaise is one of the oldest in Provence, with a bell tower whose lower section dates back to the 11th century. It is fortified and houses a beautiful copy of Raphael’s Transfiguration in its choir. The village has preserved its ramparts, fortified gates, and 17th-century houses. Accommodations are varied: campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals—enough to find your base for exploring the entire region.

And the locals have a saying that sums it all up: “A Ceiresto que li va li resto”—in Ceyreste, those who come stay. You’ve been warned.

Cabarottes and Roman fountain

Ceyreste has preserved part of its city walls, fortified gates, and numerous 17th-century houses.

All of this lends the village a great deal of charm. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you can admire its curious “cabarottes,” which are covered walkways spanning the winding, shaded alleyways. You won’t be able to miss the Roman fountain, in front of which stands a heavy stone trough that is the church’s former holy water font.

The Calanques are just a stone’s throw away

Finally, don’t forget that the sea is very close to Ceyreste; the famous Calanques of Cassis are just a short walk away, as are the beaches of Saint-Cyr and Bandol.

What to see

Fortified mediaeval church.
Little streets and covered lanes.

Things to do

Market on Friday mornings (Place de la Mairie).
Walking. Riding centre. Tennis. Summer events
1st weekend in February:
Festival of Saint Blaise (street festival, cavalcades, cart processions...).

Vacation rentals

Les Chênes Verts

Ceyreste

A lovely vacation rental in Ceyreste. Comfortable rooms, welcoming hosts, a beautiful pool, a pétanque court, and a ping-pong table. You’re sure to have a wonderful vacation at this tastefully decorated rental.

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Accommodation

Vacation rentals.
Bed and breakfasts.
Hotels.
Camping.

Your questions about Ceyreste

After we published this guide, you sent us several questions about Ceyreste. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What activities are there to do in Ceyreste?

The village of Ceyreste is an ideal starting point for outdoor hiking enthusiasts. The Grand Caunet massif, which overlooks Ceyreste and La Ciotat, offers easy hikes through pine forests and scrubland with views of the sea. The trails leading to Cap Canaille are among the must-do activities in this part of Provence. Beyond outdoor activities, cultural tourism plays a significant role. Visiting the old village, its cabarottes (traditional stone huts), and its fortified medieval church is an activity suitable for everyone. For a comprehensive guide to activities in Ceyreste and the surrounding area, the La Ciotat Tourist Office provides maps and itineraries.

Where to stay in Ceyreste?

Accommodations in Ceyreste cater to all budgets. The 4-star Ceyreste campground is a top choice in the region, featuring a swimming pool and easy access to the trails. Located just a few kilometers from Cassis and La Ciotat, it is ideally situated for exploring Cap Canaille and the Calanques National Park. For a more intimate stay, the village’s bed-and-breakfasts offer a warm local welcome. Vacation rentals are also available on major booking platforms. The nearest hotels are in La Ciotat, a five-minute drive away.

How do I get to Ceyreste?

The town of Ceyreste is easily reached by car from Marseille via the A50, in about thirty minutes. For those traveling without a car, the La Ciotat train station is the natural arrival point, less than five kilometers from the village. Bus lines connect La Ciotat to Marseille, Aubagne, and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. You can start your hike to the Cap Canaille trails directly from the village. The town offers free parking to make getting around easier.

What are the tourist attractions in Ceyreste?

The views from the heights of Ceyreste are among the most beautiful in the region. The Cap Canaille site offers a breathtaking view of La Ciotat Bay, the white limestone cliffs, and the Bec de l’Aigle. The beaches of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Bandol are less than twenty minutes away. Places to visit in the village: the Church of Saint-Blaise, one of the oldest in Provence, the Roman fountain, and the ruins of the Vallon de Gendame oppidum. Tourism in Ceyreste also means being right next to Cassis and its calanques, an exceptional natural site on the Mediterranean coast.

What is the history of Ceyreste?

The village was founded by the people of La Ciotat who came to take refuge on this escarpment during barbarian invasions. Its ancient history dates back even further: the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, and the town developed primarily during the Middle Ages under the leadership of the Viscounts of Marseille. The heritage of this historic town is remarkable. The Church of Saint-Blaise is one of the oldest monuments in Provence, with a bell tower whose lower section dates back to the 11th century. The very name of the village comes from the Greek “Kitharistès” (rock), Latinized as “Citharista” by the Romans—an etymology that attests to the site’s antiquity.

What events are happening in Ceyreste?

The must-see event on Ceyreste’s calendar is the Feast of Saint Blaise, held in early February. The mayor participates in the procession, which features horse-drawn carriages carrying the statue of Saint Blaise, from the church to the town hall square, where the horses are blessed before the service. Folk dances, a meal, and an afternoon dance round out the festivities. The Provençal market is held every Friday morning. In July, the town hall organizes a dance and fireworks for Bastille Day. For events and news in the town, visit the Ceyreste town hall website for the complete calendar of local activities.

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