Malmousque Port
Located in the 7th arrondissement of Marseille and the only port oriented and close to the Old Port, the port of Malmousque is a place that shines with splendor. Indeed, it does not have sand and only has a long concrete pontoon. Despite this, it offers a pleasant spectacle for the eyes between the various boats here and there, the buildings (colorful houses and buildings that seem quite old), nestled on rocks and whose architecture is typically Marseille, and the water of a pretty blue, the spectacle is as charming as it is striking! Swimming is possible, however, be careful of the water depth which could surprise you. Special attention to children, inexperienced swimmers, or the elderly is recommended. Let's discover together the port of Malmousque and its surroundings!
The history of Malmousque port
Originally a fishing port, it was a lively and friendly place. As early as 1610, it took on its current name of Malmousque. It's quite small and only has 55 berths managed by the Malmousque Seagulls Society. To get there, you have to navigate through the narrow streets of the neighborhood. Once there, you can often see fishermen in action or people peacefully on their small boats. Nearby is the cove, accessible only on foot, which was abandoned for a long time and became very difficult to access. However, with the settlement of some residents in the neighborhood and the construction of houses, the place gradually comes back to life and becomes frequented again. The Malmousque cove is now a place where relaxation is the key word and the people of Marseille come to swim, enjoy the view, and have a good time, especially around the cove.
It is located north of the peninsula, along the Corniche Kennedy, to be more precise. A bus also allows you to get closer to the cove. Whether it's the port or the cove, the places are very popular with the public! In fact, if you feel like following the pontoon path, you will come face to face with one of the most beautiful houses in Marseille called "Les Bains de Mers Chauds", which is a former thalassotherapy center that has been completely restored over time. Finally, on the left side of the Malmousque cove, you will find the building of the Foreign Legion and the Military Baths because the neighborhood hosts military personnel and their families.
The isle of the Hanged : A Must-See
Not far from the Calanques, you can catch sight of the Isle of the Hanged, which is a deserted island where dark hours occurred for Marseille during the 14th and 15th centuries. Indeed, the city suffered the repercussions of its attempts to take possession of the Kingdom of Naples by the Counts of Provence. The Phocaean city was captured by Alphonse V, son of Ferdinand I, on November 21, 1423. A macabre tradition then emerged, that of hanging twelve of the most notable Marseillais of the time. The island is accessible by boat or swimming, for the most curious, adventurers, or simply history enthusiasts.
Malmousque cove : A Postcard-Worthy location
Since 2023, there has been an art gallery located in a building that housed a gastronomic restaurant, which no longer exists today and was, as expected of a fishing port, specialized in fish. The places themselves are true works of art worthy of a postcard.
It's simple, everything begs to be photographed, with paintings directly on the walls of the buildings, beautiful houses in beautiful colors, or the alleys of the neighborhood that offer a very Marseille aesthetic, very typical Provencal of a fishing village in the south of France. In the neighborhood, you will have the opportunity to dine in the many café terraces, restaurants, picnic, take beautiful photos, chat with the locals, or even stroll to observe also the islands of Endoume and Gaby from Malmousque. Moreover, near the cove, you can discover other beaches like that of Pointe d'Endoume, the concrete beach of Vallon des Auffes or the cove of Petit Nice.
Malmousque is truly a unique place that is a pleasure to see and will undoubtedly dazzle you. Its port is like no other port, and it will bring a refreshing touch to your visit.