When one thinks of Marseille, the Old Port, the Calanques, or Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde immediately come to mind. Yet the Phocaean city is also home to a more understated heritage: that of its bastides, elegant country estates built between the 17th and 19th centuries. Some are now open to the public and offer a peaceful retreat amid architecture, gardens, and history.
Château Borély
Built in the 18th century for a wealthy family of Marseille merchants, Château Borély is undoubtedly the most famous of Marseille’s bastides. Fully restored, it now houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Ceramics, and Fashion. Its elegant classical architecture and vast grounds, which extend all the way to the Prado beaches, make it one of the city’s most beautiful places to stroll.
Pastré Estate
At the gateway to the Calanques mountain range, the Campagne Pastré offers a true breath of fresh air in the heart of Marseille. This vast estate, spanning over 100 hectares, surrounds a former 19th-century country house and is now one of the city’s largest parks. With its wide, shaded avenues, meadows, and views of the hills, it is a place particularly beloved by walkers.
Magalone Country House
Discreetly nestled in the 9th arrondissement, the Bastide de la Magalone is one of the finest examples of 17th- and 18th-century Provençal architecture in Marseille. Surrounded by a designated garden featuring ponds, statues, and tree-lined paths, it now houses the Cité de la Musique and hosts numerous cultural events. The estate is currently undergoing a major restoration program, which may result in the temporary closure of certain areas. It is therefore advisable to check access conditions before visiting.
Château de la Buzine
Immortalized by Marcel Pagnol in *Le Château de ma mère*, the Château de la Buzine is now a venue entirely dedicated to cinema and cultural heritage. Surrounded by a pleasant wooded park, it hosts exhibitions, film screenings, and events throughout the year. A visit here will appeal to literature lovers and film enthusiasts alike. Please note that the château closes for a few weeks every summer (from July 27 to August 24 in 2026); it is therefore best to check the hours before planning your visit.
