This is a bright star in Marseille's understocked supply of hotels, larger than its siblings Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port and Novotel. The recent brand change for Sofitel properties to Pullman illuminates the modern changes and snazzy decor that management had in sight. Now, this is one of the city's best, although it still pales in comparison to the newer, hipper Radisson SAS. As is common in cliff-face operations, the hotel is barely visible from the highway and spills down to the sea in stages. Built in 1975, it has taken on new life.
The lobby-lounge is a vast expanse of bare marble floor, with a long desk and wraparound view of one of the prettiest settings on the coast. Decor in all areas is a ship theme with a smooth blend of blue-gray marine colors with Provencal hues. Wood floors and inventive design mark the dining room, which specializes in seafood. The long bar has comfortable
wicker and cushions.
The focal point of both public and private areas is the vast disappearing-edge pool fed by salt spring water and guarded by a gate attendant. A large, unshaded terrace with woven plastic chairs adjoins it.
The shoreline is rocky, but the hotel cooperates in a diving center with the next-door hotel. The fitness department also overlooks the sea and has a small whirlpool, large sauna, small exercise room and a massage therapist on call. Conferences are a major part of the hotel's offerings and are served by nearly a dozen rooms plus an amphitheater providing space for 600 visitors. A business center has one e-mail station.
More than half the rooms have a sea view and small balconies. High-quality security and conservation devices including energy-saving, motion-sensing lights are found throughout. Air-conditioned rooms are pleasantly modern, with glass walls overlooking the sea, soft seating, and a headboard mimicking a sail with grommets. Plush bedding brings thick duvets atop sturdy, but soft mattresses. A calming series of pale blue tones set the mood for the Mediterranean views and are meant to evoke a maritime theme through colors and accent pieces.Photos of Marseille decorate the walls, and all the thoughtful amenities are included, even to specialized coat hangers.
The bath has robes, French toiletries, phones, makeup mirrors, hair dryers and a high-style bowl vanity. Some have a separate shower. Suites are larger versions of the rooms, with soft sofas and chairs. Wireless high-speed Internet connections, 
through-the-TV wakeup calls, safes and foreign channels are standard fare.
Half the rooms are for nonsmokers, and two are for travelers in wheelchairs. Pets are welcome. Soundproofing is minimal, leading many guests to wish they had packed ear plugs. Turndown service is offered. Room service runs all hours during the week.
For those who like modern design that goes for comfort rather than the ultra-chic, this low-priced pearl has more value than any hotel in Marseille. The incredible views and friendly service are the icing on the cake, but remember individuals have to share their cake with groups and business events, too.
