The Cabanon des Goudes

When Camille de Laurens speaks about Les Goudes, she first mentions its people: “To get here, we often take a taxi. It’s not unusual for the driver to share personal anecdotes along the way—stories of childhood, family, fishing with friends, outdoor meals, and cabins passed down through generations…”

This sets the tone: Les Goudes epitomizes southern life at its finest. Picture endless aperitifs, hammock naps, and reading by the water—what many would consider the quintessence of vacation. Such charm is more than enough to entice anyone to experience this unique place for themselves, in this quaint house that almost seems to float… like a boat.

A heartfelt address tucked away in this little semi-pedestrian alley, bustling in the summer yet blissfully serene in the off-season. According to the hostess, the area is rich with inspiration, making it the perfect spot to fully enjoy the mild climate and soak in the local ambiance.

The Cabanon des Goudes wouldn’t be what it is without its architectural sobriety and nods to Provencal style. Terracotta tiles on the floor, pearl anti-fly curtains, and stoneware dishes: the duo from the M/B agency had a blast infusing a Mediterranean inspiration – sometimes with a touch of rustic charm – into this setting… all balanced by the pop and contrasting colors dear to the creative studio! Bold prairie green adorns the kitchen backsplash. This hue is accentuated by the white and sunshine yellow stripes of the curtain, which cleverly conceals the vintage dishes underneath. This decor celebrates whimsy and playfulness, creating a vibrant yet cozy retreat.

But it’s not just about style; it’s also about maximizing every inch of these compact spaces. A built-in masonry bench in the living room and a versatile sofa that doubles as seating in the living area and a chair in the dining room demonstrate the clever use of space. The creativity doesn’t stop there—the cottage is dotted with a few standout pieces that draw the eye, such as a Haos stool and lamp, or a decorative plate by Marion Maïlender. It’s all about blending simplicity with a flair for design!

Greek island or Marseille port? The line blurs in front of this captivating seascape. Is that the shuttle from Les Goudes ferrying vacationers to Pointe-Rouge or the Old Port? Or perhaps it’s the serpentine, cliff-hugging road that brings visitors here by car, playing tricks on our senses? Either way, the distinction hardly matters.

Wherever the eye lands, the illusion of being on an archipelago is ever-present. This vibrant and unique sensation of standing at the edge of the world, yet within the bounds of the metropolis, is amplified by sunsets that seem to pose the question: will you return? To which the only response is: of course!