Plage de la Verrerie is a unique and family-friendly beach situated in the Montredon neighborhood of Marseille, along the Mediterranean Sea. This beach is renowned for its rocky coastline that features small secluded coves, providing private sunbathing spots. However, swimming can be challenging due to the lack of sandy beach and the presence of jagged rocks. Despite these natural obstacles, Plage de la Verrerie is still admired for its undeniable beauty and dramatic scenery.
The beach's waters are transparent, offering excellent visibility for divers, particularly until the mid-morning. However, it's worth noting that the beach has gained a reputation for being dangerous due to its hidden depths and whirlpools, with several drowning incidents reported over the years.
Plage de la Verrerie is also recognized for its typical huts and the overall atmosphere it offers. However, there have been ongoing concerns about cleanliness, with visitors leaving behind trash such as papers and cigarette butts. This has led to calls for increased respect for this picturesque location.
Access to the beach is through a discreet passage between residential buildings, which adds to its charm and authenticity. One notable amenity at the beach is a snack bar, conveniently located at the bottom of the stairs leading to the beach, offering refreshments to visitors.
Parking for visitors is available near the City Stadium of la Verrerie, providing a stunning view of Marseille. This parking area has a historical significance as it was once a site where former factory workers lived in makeshift houses and shelters.
The name of the beach, Plage de la Verrerie, pays homage to its history as the site of a glass factory called Verrerie Pons-Grimblot. The factory, which was operational until 1935 and was later destroyed by a fire, left no remnants. Today, the beach serves as a reminder of this significant part of Marseille's industrial past.
