Degaby Island

You’re probably familiar with the Château d’If, Frioul and Ile Maire, but have you ever heard of Ile Degaby? This small fortified islet opposite Malmousque offers a breathtaking setting. This exceptional site, with its fortress seemingly at one with the rock, is rich in history. Let us take you on a tour of this little-known part of Marseille.

Let’s go back in time

In 1680, Louis XIV had a fort built here, “Fort de Tourville”, to protect the town from any sea attacks from the south of Marseille. The island remained in the possession of the army for a long time, and it wasn’t until the beginning of the twentieth century, around 1915, that the army parted with it.
The island was then bought by André Laval, a wealthy industrialist from Marseille, who gave it to his wife, Liane Degaby, a music-hall performer, and gave it his name. The island became a festive place where all the Marseilles bourgeoisie came to party. This wealthy industrialist owned some real works of art, which attracted a lot of covetousness, and it was around 1921 that thieves broke into the property and looted the island. The despondent owners left.
The island was abandoned for almost 40 years. It was then bought by a number of people, all of whom had somewhat eccentric plans for the island, but none of them ever saw the light of day.
In 1990, L’île Degaby was bought by jeweller Pascal Morabito, who carried out work on the island and turned it into his artists’ residence. He also hosted a number of soirées there. In 2001, the island was once again bought by property developers and then sold.

Today, Ile Degaby belongs to a hotel group and is managed by a couple from Marseille. The group has invested heavily in renovating the fortress (kitchen, gardens, roof terrace, function room, etc.).
Apart from private events and parties, the island will host a temporary restaurant and bar. It is due to open in the spring.

©Soiree Ile Degaby X Mensa Jootlcm 38 Rotated

©Soiree Ile Degaby X Mensa Jootlcm 95 Rotated

©Soiree Ile Degaby X Mensa Jootlcm 7 Rotated

Did you know?

A natural cave leads directly to the center of the island. A central well, where, depending on the time of day and the position of the sun, the water changes color and explores the palette of green and blue.

©Degaby Island View From Navettecoltcm 2

Degaby Island today, an ephemeral experience

Apart from private events and parties, the island hosts a temporary restaurant and bar from May to October. Access is by boat, and the crossing takes around 15 minutes (access is subject to weather conditions).
The restaurant features cuisine inspired by the Mediterranean, using seasonal produce and local artisans. The menu, which changes regularly, features 3 starters, 3 main courses and 3 desserts, as well as signature dishes designed to be shared.

The bar offers tapas and cocktails in a relaxing musical atmosphere. You can also take a dip if you like!
Access to the island is by online booking only. This booking includes the boat trip as well as access to the bar and/or restaurant. Boarding takes place under the Mucem footbridge.

Whatever you choose, you’ll spend an unforgettable evening in a timeless setting, with breathtaking views of the Bonne Mère on one side and the Frioul islands on the other .

It’s important to remember that the island is private and not open to the public unless booked in advance, although some daredevil swimmers do come along from the corniche!