A building proudly stands here for almost 100 years. Right in front of us is Place Belle Vue. It is more than just a location. It’s a vantage point offering stunning views of Marseille’s Old Port and a slice of the city’s history.
For almost a century, the Hotel Belle Vue and La Caravelle bar-restaurant have watched over the Old Port. La Caravelle, on the first floor, started as a cabaret for sailors in the 1920s. Two more years and they can celebrate a century reigning over the Old Port of Marseille.
Look at the building’s roof. The hotel’s wooden frame hides its age well. The beams were once ship masts. Even 150 years ago, wood frames were essential for supporting roofs. They symbolized protection. Master carpenters had to work in ports to be admitted to the king’s service. They created masterpieces.
Until the late 19th century, ships were made of wood, especially oak. King Louis XIV’s Ordinance of 1669 regulated forest exploitation to preserve resources. Wooden ships lasted about twenty years. The straight-grain wood of masts and yards found new life as beams.
During the Second World War on May 27, 1944, the Germans bombed the Old Port. 400 buildings were destroyed. But the Belle Vue hotel and La Caravelle remained standing. Even the staircase survived. Today, it’s considered part of Marseille’s heritage. Apple even featured its photogenicity in an iPhone campaign.
The Belle Vue hotel is eco-friendly. It has earned the Green Key label for its environmental efforts. The hotel focuses on reducing water and energy consumption. It uses biodegradable cleaning products. All rooms have views of the Old Port. They feature air conditioning, high-end bedding, mini-bars, TVs, and free WIFI.
Breakfast is made with fresh produce. It is served at Caravelle. Enjoy the view of Marseille and Notre Dame de la Garde as the sun rises. Gregory, a guest, wrote about his stay. He read about the hotel in old books. He loved watching the people and scooters from his window. He wished he could have stayed longer.
Barry also enjoyed his stay. He found the hotel clean and comfortable. He appreciated the helpful staff and the views. He also enjoyed the breakfast. Dominica loved the view of the port and Notre Dame de la Garde from her comfortable room.
The Belle Vue lives up to its name. It offers magnificent views of the Old Port. The rooms are renovated. The breakfast on the terrace is great. The staff is welcoming. There is some noise in the evening, but it’s normal for the Old Port.
The Hotel Belle Vue is committed to sustainable tourism. It has been awarded the Green Key label. This label focuses on environmental policy, guest awareness, and resource management. The hotel aims to reduce water and energy consumption. It uses virtuous management of linen, lighting, and electrical appliances. It also uses biodegradable cleaning products.
Today, the Old Port is pedestrian-friendly. You can easily access beaches, the Frioul islands, and the Calanques. The Belle Vue hotel offers a blend of history, comfort, and stunning views. It makes it a memorable place to experience Marseille.