Nestled between the Pointe d'Endoume and the Corniche Kennedy, the Malmousque cove is one of Marseille's best-kept secrets: a tiny fishing port, crystal-clear coves, and panoramic views of the islands, just minutes from the Old Port. Here's how to enjoy it—and how to get there from the hotel. Belle-Vue.
Malmousque, the secret cove in the center of Marseille
Right in the heart of Marseille, a stone's throw from the Corniche, Malmousque resembles a fishing village frozen in time. Before you, a handful of shops and staircases that plunge into narrow alleyways —Traverse de la Fausse Monnaie, Rue va à la Calanque… Winding, they rise and fall, lined with fishermen's villas, country houses, and sumptuous residences.
First stop, the small fishing port , worthy of a watercolor painting. Stroll along the quay, climb a few rocks, and sit down: opposite, the military baths and the famous Hanged Men's Rock . The clear water invites you to swim, and swimmers often challenge each other to reach the small archipelago in just a few strokes.
How to get to Malmousque from the Old Port
Good news: Malmousque is less than 15 minutes from the Old Port.
- By bus: line 83, which runs along the sea, stop Endoume on the Corniche Kennedy. It's the easiest access.
- Walk : about a 30 minute walk along the Corniche, with the sea constantly in view.
- By bicycle or scooter: Ideal in fine weather, via the Corniche.
- By car : Avoid — parking is very difficult in the Endoume area.
Since theHotel Belle-VueOn the Old Port, the bus stop for route 83 is just a few steps away: you drop your bags in the center of everything and you're off to the cove in no time.
Swimming and secluded coves
Head back with your towel over your shoulder: more coves await you at the top of the bay. Between Pointe d'Endoume and Pointe Cadière , steps lead down to small inlets right in the heart of town —including the pretty Calanque du Cuivre . The final stops are Anse de Maldormé and Anse de la Fausse Monnaie , easily recognizable by its bridge. These beaches are more accessible… but also more crowded.
Good to know: here, there's no fine sand, but rocks and crystal-clear water. Wear appropriate footwear, as there are a few rocks to step over to find your spot in the sun.
A breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor
The view is well worth the trip: from the heights overlooking the cove, you can see the Frioul Islands , Degaby Island , and Endoume Island . To your left , Pointe Rouge and the Marseilleveyre massif come into view . A microcosm of the Mediterranean, just minutes from the city center.
Where to eat in Malmousque
Just above the cove lies Le Petit Nice , Gérald Passédat's 3-Michelin-starred restaurant , one of the city's finest establishments. For a more relaxed break, nothing beats an aperitif or a picnic with your feet in the water , facing the sunset—one of Marseille's great pleasures.
Our tips for enjoying Malmousque
- Come early In the morning or on weekdays: the coves are small and quickly get crowded in the summer.
- Closed shoes Recommended: access is via stairs and rocks.
- Bring water and something to shelter you from the sun — there are few shops on site.
- The spirit of the calanque in the city: These are rocky coves, not a sandy beach.
- Respect the site: We take our rubbish home with us. Belle-Vue, 1er We're particularly fond of the Green Key hotel in Marseille. 🌿
Malmousque from the Hotel Belle-Vue
Enjoy Marseille's best location: a room with a view of Notre-Dame de la Garde and immediate access to the Old Port, the starting point for all your excursions—from Malmousque to the calanques , beaches , and islands. We'll explain why the Old Port is the ideal location for exploring the city.
FAQ — Malmousque in Marseille
How to get to Malmousque from the Old Port?
Take bus 83 (Endoume stop, on the Corniche Kennedy), less than 15 minutes from the Old Port. On foot, allow about 30 minutes along the Corniche, with sea views.
Is it possible to swim in Malmousque?
Yes, in small coves of clear water at the foot of the rocks (Calanque du Cuivre, Anse de Maldormé, Anse de la Fausse Monnaie). Closed shoes are recommended for access.
Is there a sandy beach in Malmousque?
No: Malmousque is all about rocky coves, a kind of calanque atmosphere right in the city. For sand, head to the Prado beaches.
Where to park in Malmousque?
Parking is very difficult in the Endoume district. It's best to come by bus 83, on foot or by bicycle.
Fancy a getaway to Malmousque? Book your room at the Hotel Belle-Vue, on the Old Port. See you soon!
