Crossing to the If Castle and the Frioul islands
20 minutes away from Marseille by boat, you will discover the Frioul Archipelago composed of 4 islands: Ratonneau, Pomègues, If and Tiboulen.
Regular shuttles 7/7 by boat from the Vieux Port (20 minutes crossing for If and 30 minutes for Frioul). All departures depend on the weather.
Frioul is composed of 2 islands (Ratonneau and Pomègues). With their footpaths, they are an ideal area for hikers who want to discover small creeks to swim. The old Caroline Hospital, which has been used as a health establishment since 1828, is located on Frioul, it cannot be visited. An accommodation centre hosts sea classes for the discovery of the marine environment and sports courses for diving enthusiasts. The aquaculture farm, located on the island of Pomeges, breeding wolves (sea bass) and sea bream, has been recognised as the world’s first organic farm.
The Château d’If: a former fortress built on an island in opposite of Marseille under François I in 1524 that became a prison in the 17th century. The novel by Alexandre Dumas, “the Count of Monte Cristo” made it famous all over the world. The parapet walk offers a breathtaking view of Marseille and its bay. The National Monuments Center opens the doors of this mythical place.
Practical information
From mid-September to mid-March the castle is closed on Mondays. There is a charge for access to the island, tickets are on sale on the island or online.
Adult: 6€ Group: 5€.
Europeans under 26 years old: free of charge excluding transport.
Regulated and paying access to the Château d’if (in addition to the ticket for the crossing)
More information: Château d’If ticket office
FRIOUL IF EXPRESS
1 Quai de la Fraternité – 13001 Marseille.
Tel : + 33 (0) 4 96 11 03 50
