Marseille is preparing to experience an exceptional summer of sports. Léon Marchand, a major figure in French swimming and hero of the Paris 2024 Games, has chosen the Marseille Swimming Club (CNM) for his summer internship. News that delights the city of Marseille — and gives travelers yet another great reason to unpack their bags at the Old Port. At the Hotel Belle-VueWe have prepared a complete guide to fully enjoy the sporty and Phocaean Marseille this summer.
Léon Marchand in Marseille: why the Phocaean city?
Léon Marchand's choice was far from insignificant. Marseille has been a stronghold of French swimming for over a century. The Cercle des Nageurs de Marseille , founded in 1921, is among the most decorated clubs in Europe and has produced a long line of champions, from Frédérick Bousquet to Florent Manaudou, including Camille Lacourt and Mehdy Metella. To train there is to become part of the great Marseille swimming family.
Beyond the club, it's the city itself that attracts athletes: a sunny climate with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, the Mediterranean Sea within easy reach, world-class sports facilities, and a Mediterranean lifestyle conducive to recovery. In short, the ideal setting for a summer training camp.
The Swimming Club: a monument of Marseille's heritage
Located on the Promenade Georges Pompidou , just above the Anse des Catalans, the CNM sits on the rocks overlooking the Mediterranean. Its outdoor Olympic-size pool, panoramic terrace, and facilities worthy of the biggest European clubs make it an essential part of Marseille's sporting identity.
The club is not open to the public (membership is required), but its facilities can be admired from the outside by taking the coastal promenade along the sea. Pro tip : the light is sublime in the late afternoon, when the sun falls on the ochre rocks and the turquoise water.
Your sports holiday from the Hotel Belle-Vue
The Hotel Belle-Vuenestled in the middle heart of the Old Port, is an ideal starting point for exploring Marseille. From our establishment, you can reach the Cercle des Nageurs by:
- 25 minutes walk, walking along the sea along the coastal path
- 10 minutes by bus (lines 83 and 583, stop "Catalans")
- 15 minutes by bike via the self-service bike stations
- 8 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing service
On your return, enjoy the gentleness of a Room with a view of the Old Port to recharge, in an intimate and eco-friendly setting. The Hotel Belle-Vue is labeled Green Key - theInternational ecolabel for sustainable tourism — proof of our commitment to a stay that respects the Mediterranean and the Marseille region.
Five spots in Marseille to swim this summer
Inspired by the exploits of Léon Marchand, do you also want to take a dip? Here are our five favorite Marseille swimming spots:
1. Catalans Beach — the city center beach
Just steps from the CNM, this is Marseille's urban beach . Fine sand, shallow water, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Ideal for a break after a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde.
2. The Prado beaches — the Mediterranean expanse
3,5 km of developed coastline south of the city. Sandy and pebble beaches, seaside restaurants, and water sports. Accessible in 20 minutes by bus from the Old Port.
3. The Calanques — turquoise water for adventurers
Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En Vau: the Calanques of Marseille offer some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the French Mediterranean. Bring good shoes and plenty of water — in summer, access is regulated to protect the site.
4. The Frioul Islands — a seaside getaway
A 30-minute boat ride from the Old Port and you'll find yourself on these wild islands, crystal-clear coves, and pristine seabeds. A Robinson Crusoe-style day out just 4 km from the city center.
5. La Pointe Rouge — the family atmosphere
Further south, La Pointe Rouge combines a sandy beach, a diving club, and small fishermen's restaurants. Perfect for a relaxing day with children.
To learn more, consult our Marseille by sea guide.
Beyond swimming: Marseille, an Olympic and Phocaean city
Marseille is not just the city of French swimming: it is a complete sporting city . The Paris 2024 Olympic Games have even chosen the Phocaean city to host the sailing events, confirming its status as the Mediterranean capital of sport.
- Sailing and regattas The Voiles du Vieux-Port in June, the World Pétanque Championship in July
- Football : a match at the Stade Vélodrome to experience the thrill of OM
- Hiking The trails of the Calanques National Park, a paradise for trail runners
- Scuba diving and freediving : drop-offs and wrecks off the Frioul Islands
- Padel and tennis many clubs with free access
Discover all our suggestions on the Local Activities page or explore our guide What to do in Marseille?
Recover like a Phocaean: the table of La Caravelle
After exertion, relaxation. Our restaurant-bar, La Caravelle , awarded the Écotable label , showcases local, sustainable, and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine : Friday aioli, fish soup, crispy panisses, and wines from the hills of Aix and Cassis. Located on the first floor opposite Notre-Dame de la Garde, it's the ideal Marseille address to recharge—accompanied, on Wednesdays and Fridays, by Maxim's cocktails and Viviane's jazz concerts.
Want to delve deeper into Marseilles culture? Take a detour through our essential guide to Marseilles — from pastis to Marseilles soap, the ABCs of Phocaean traditions.
FAQ — Your sporting and Marseilles stay
Can we visit the Cercle des Nageurs de Marseille?
The CNM is a private club closed to the public. The facilities are accessible only to members and their guests. However, the Catalans coastal promenade , which runs alongside the club, offers panoramic views of the facilities and the Mediterranean Sea—free of charge.
Will we be able to catch a glimpse of Léon Marchand this summer?
The possibility isn't ruled out! Léon Marchand is known for being approachable when his schedule allows. But please respect his privacy and his preparation: the best way to wish him good luck is to enjoy Marseille peacefully, and perhaps even cheer him on at his next international competitions.
How to get to the CNM from the Hotel Belle-Vue ?
The Cercle des Nageurs is located 2 km from our hotel, on the Promenade Georges Pompidou. Allow 25 minutes on foot along the coastal path (with sea views), 10 minutes by bus (lines 83 or 583) from the "Vieux-Port — Hôtel de Ville" stop, or 8 minutes by taxi.
What are the best times to swim in Marseille?
The sea is suitable for swimming from May to October . Water temperatures are ideal (22-25°C) from late June to mid-September. To avoid crowds, opt for mornings in July and August or weekends in June and September.
The hotel Belle-Vue Does it offer deals for extended sports holidays?
Yes: our Sustainable Getaway offer includes a special discount for any stay of 6 nights or more , ideal for a wellness retreat in Marseille or for exploring the Phocaean city at a slow travel pace. All our promotions can be found on our Best Offers and Deals page.
What if you lived your own Marseilles summer?
Léon Marchand chose Marseille, and he knows why. At the Hotel Belle-VueWe put our long-standing expertise as a Marseilles hotelier family at the service of your stay: rooms facing the Old Port, eco-friendly table, personalized local adviceA warm welcome 24/24. This summer, do as the champions do: Book your stay in Marseille directly on our official website and benefit from the best price guaranteed.
Sources and inspiration: sports news franceinfo (announcement of Léon Marchand's internship at CNM, May 2026).
