Parc Borély . Park

Spend a day exploring Parc Borély (Borély Park) - the perfect spot for an early morning walk, a relaxing picnic or watching the sun set over the Mediterranean. Or discover the treasures of the park's 17 hectares (42 acres), including the Château Borély and the EM Heckel Botanical Garden.

Stroll along the two vast expanses of grass on the west side of the park, extending in front of the magnificent Castle Borély (Chateau Borély). Built in the 18th century, the castle was originally used as a country house by wealthy merchant Louis Borély. After a long period of restoration, the castle reopened to visitors in June 2013 and is home to an art museum. Take time to explore the collection of fashion, fabrics and ceramics in rooms decorated with original 18th-century furniture. The east wing of the castle is home to a bookstore and Borély Café.

To the east of the park is a characteristic English-style garden with a path that loops around an ornamental lake. Rent a bicycle to walk around the park, then rest by the lake and feed the ducks and swans. Stop to enjoy the fragrant flowers in the rose garden. Or bring some food and water and organize a relaxing picnic in the quiet atmosphere.

Borély Park is a family-friendly destination, with lots of fun activities for the kids. Rent a go-cart, ride a merry-go-round or race a model boat on the lake.

Be sure to stop by the adjoining EM Heckel Botanical Garden, located at the eastern end of the park. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to admire and enjoy the fragrance of more than 3,500 species of herbs collected from China, South Africa and other remote areas. At the end of the day, head to nearby Borély beach to watch the sunset or cool off after a day of sightseeing.

From the city center there are regular bus routes to Borély Park. Admission to the park is free, but admission tickets must be purchased for EM Heckel Botanical Garden and Borély Castle separately.

Address : Avenue du Parc Borély, 13008 Marseille

Opening time: 06:00 - 20:45