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This beautiful beach is now completely off-limits in Marseille

undefined undefined 19 février 2025 undefined 19h00

The Editor

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The Maldormé Cove, a favorite spot for the people of Marseille, is now off-limits due to the risk of collapse. This danger has been noted since 2023, but no action has been taken. As a result, the site is closed until further notice, causing confusion and frustration.

A tough blow for the Marseillais searching for sunshine and tranquility: the Maldormé cove, one of the little gems of the 7th arrondissement, is now off-limits. Overnight, this beloved spot was blocked by gates and no-entry signs, leaving regular visitors bewildered. The reason? A risk of collapse that had been reported long ago, but only now is being addressed.

A gem of Marseille now inaccessible

Since February 11, 2025, a prefectural order has formally prohibited access to this stretch of coastline, known for its relaxing rocky areas facing the sea. Authorities point to a "verified risk of falling stones", deemed too dangerous for walkers and swimmers. The issue? Two weakened concrete slabs and a rock block riddled with fractures, threatening to collapse at any moment.

Issue: this danger is not new. A first report had already been made in June 2023, warning about the instability of the site. A new warning was issued on February 10, 2025, this time by an agent from the Directorate of Territories and the Sea. Yet, no work has been undertaken in the meantime to secure the area. The result: the situation is worsening and the only solution found has been... to abruptly close access.

No reopening date announced

This ban is causing quite a stir. Already under pressure with access restrictions to certain beaches due to pollution or erosion, the people of Marseille are seeing another part of their coastline disappear behind barriers. Hervé Menchon, deputy mayor in charge of the coastline, responded by calling for better management of natural sites and a coordinated project to make this space accessible again.

In the meantime, no reopening date has been announced. Experts need to assess the risks and suggest solutions, but there's no guarantee of a quick fix. One thing is for sure: in Marseille, enjoying the sea is becoming an increasingly complicated luxury.


Source: Ulysse