La Côte Bleue, a superb coastline at the gateway to Marseille

Radia Amar - 03 November 2023

Lying west of the Phocean City, La Côte Bleue is a protected coastal strip dotted with wild creeks. Comprised of Carry-le-Rouet, Ensuès-la-Redonne, Sausset-les-Pins, Le Rove, La Couronne and Carro, the area is highly prized by a local and Parisian clientele.

Conveniently located 30 minutes from Marseille, 40 minutes from Aix-en-Provence, and close to TGV stations and the international airport, La Côte Bleue begins just after the Marseillais neighbourhood of L’Estaque. Here, the deep blue of the sea contrasting with white rocks and green vegetation creates picture-postcard scenery. Most of this rugged territory is classified as a wooded area unsuitable for construction.

Focusing on sales, rentals and estimations, the Agence Lo Monaco Immo is run by Gérard Lo Monaco who, in 2021, acquired the agency in which he had worked since 2010. With a team of three, he is preparing to present his new management service this autumn. With the entire Côte Bleue as its catchment area, Lo Monaco Immo orchestrates sales of houses, villas and a few apartments for a clientele 70 % local, plus French buyers from other regions.

Young retirees or the actively employed pursuing teleworking, often from the Parisian region, they are drawn by the charm of this area encircling L’Étang de Berre.

“After the euphoria which followed the Covid crisis, the market has regained its cruising speed and prices have come back to their senses,” says Gérard Lo Monaco.

“There are fewer buyers, but those with robust files are carrying out their plans for permanent new homes. In this transitional context, our work consists of estimating each property’s worth as precisely as possible and explaining to sellers how the market is evolving.”

Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins are the most sought-after communes, followed by Ensuès-la-Redonne and Le Rove. As an example of a property representing today’s market, Gérard Lo Monaco mentions a villa of 200 m2 with 6 main rooms in a quiet cul-de-sac near the sea, in Carry-le-Rouet. Offering 4 large bedrooms and a garden of 684 m2 with a swimming pool, it is on offer at 899,000 €. Another example, in Le Rove, a light and airy contemporary villa of 200 m2 in grounds of 850 m2 with terraces, a swimming pool and garage. Ultra-modern, benefiting from quality appointments and enjoying unimpeded views, it is priced at 995,000 €.