Auberge De Jeunesse Hi Marseille Bois Luzy

A Complete Guide to Visiting Auberge De Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Marseille’s scenic Montolivet district, the Auberge De Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy is more than a youth hostel—it’s a living piece of Marseille’s history. Housed in a 19th-century Second Empire château, this hostel offers guests a unique blend of historic grandeur, social tourism, and access to Marseille’s vibrant cultural landscape. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a tranquil base for your Marseille adventures, this guide provides all the essential information you need, from visiting hours and booking details to accessibility, amenities, and nearby attractions.

Introduction
Historical Background and Significance
Essential Visitor Information
Architectural and Artistic Significance
Community and Cultural Role
FAQs
Images and Media
Useful Links
Conclusion and Call to Action

Historical Background and Significance

Origins and Early Development

The Bois Luzy estate traces its roots to the 17th century, originally belonging to the de Robert de Ruffi family—local notaries for generations. It once spanned 23 hectares, featuring pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards, emblematic of Marseille’s agricultural heritage (tourisme-marseille.com).

Construction and Architectural Highlights

Around 1850, Monsieur De Saint Alary built the château, embracing the Second Empire style with elegant proportions and decorative details. The three-story, 380-square-meter structure boasts a 2,000-square-meter terrace and an ornate Italian mosaic floor—crafted by the same artisans who worked on the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. The château’s original grand chandelier was also donated to the basilica (tourisme-marseille.com).

Ownership Transitions and Urban Development

After the Saint Alary era, the estate passed through various merchant and shipowner families. In 1925, a bank acquired the property, which was later subdivided for residential development by Société Générale Foncière. The château eventually came under the city’s ownership (tourisme-marseille.com).

Use During Wartime and Transformation into a Hostel

The château was slated as a police rest home before WWII but was instead occupied by German forces during the war. After Liberation, it was squatted until the city repurposed it in the 1950s. In 1947, the château was entrusted to a non-profit to support social tourism, officially becoming a youth hostel and welcoming 12,000–15,000 guests annually (tourisme-marseille.com).

Essential Visitor Information

Operating Seasons and Visiting Hours

Auberge De Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy operates seasonally from March 1 to November 30. Reception hours are generally from 8:00 to 21:00, with 24-hour access for checked-in guests (HI France). Always confirm current hours on the official website before your visit.

Booking and Ticketing

Stays must be booked in advance through the official HIHostels Bois Luzy website or authorized platforms. There’s no separate ticketing for non-guest visits; public access to the château is limited, but guided tours are sometimes available by appointment.

Accessibility

Due to its historic structure, the hostel offers partial accessibility for guests with limited mobility. Ramps and accessible bathrooms are available in select areas, but not all rooms are adapted—contact the hostel ahead of your visit to confirm suitable accommodations (HIHostels Bois Luzy).

Travel Tips: Getting There

Public Transport:
- Metro: Line 1 (La Fourragère station) is a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from the hostel.
- Bus: Line 6 stops at “Bois Luzy,” just 300 meters from the entrance.
- Tram: La Blancarde tram stop (Line T1) is around 2 km away.
From Saint-Charles Station: Take Metro Line 1 to La Fourragère, then walk or transfer to Bus 6.
From Marseille Provence Airport: Shuttle to Saint-Charles, then Metro/Bus as above.
By Car: The hostel offers free on-site parking; use GPS address 58 Allée des Primevères, 13012 Marseille (Google Maps Bois Luzy).
Bike: Le Vélo bike-sharing stations are nearby, and secure storage is available.

Amenities and Facilities

18 rooms, 101 beds, and 30 camping pitches
Communal kitchen, laundry, TV lounge, library
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Secure bike storage
Free or paid on-site parking (check latest info)
Large garden and terrace
Buffet-style breakfast included
Sports courts (volleyball, basketball, tennis)
Permaculture garden with beehives and chickens (HI France)

Special Events and Tours

The hostel occasionally hosts community and cultural events in collaboration with local associations. Guided tours may be available by appointment—check with reception or the official website for schedules and availability.

Architectural and Artistic Significance

The château’s Italian mosaic floors and its historic chandelier (now at Notre-Dame de la Garde) highlight its artistic value and ties to Marseille’s religious and cultural heritage (tourisme-marseille.com). The building itself is a fine example of Second Empire architecture, offering guests a tangible connection to the city’s past.

Community and Cultural Role

Auberge De Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy is a living hub for social tourism, fostering cultural exchange and community engagement. Its eco-friendly initiatives, such as permaculture gardens and sustainable amenities, reflect a commitment to responsible travel and urban biodiversity.

FAQs

Q: What are the hostel’s visiting hours?
A: Open seasonally from March 1 to November 30. Reception is typically open 8:00–21:00; guests have 24/7 access.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Accommodation is by reservation (fees apply); non-guest access is limited and may require a tour appointment.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, by prior arrangement—contact the hostel directly.

Q: Is the property accessible for those with reduced mobility?
A: Partial accessibility is provided; inquire in advance for specific needs.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, free on-site parking for guests.

Images and Media

Find official photos and virtual tours on the HIHostels Bois Luzy website and Marseille Tourism portal, featuring the château, gardens, and panoramic city views.

Useful Links

Conclusion and Call to Action

Auberge De Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy offers an immersive Marseille experience—combining historical splendor, sustainable living, and community spirit. Book your stay in advance (especially during peak months), and use this hostel as a launchpad to explore the city’s rich history, from the Old Port to the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. For updates, guided tours, and more travel inspiration, download the Audiala app and follow official tourism channels.

References

Visiting Auberge De Jeunesse Hi Marseille Bois Luzy: History, Hours, Tickets & Tips (tourisme-marseille.com)
Auberge De Jeunesse Hi Marseille Bois Luzy: Visiting Hours, Access, and Nearby Attractions (HIHostels Bois Luzy)
Auberge de Jeunesse HI Marseille Bois Luzy: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Historical Significance, and Visitor Guide (HI France)
A Comprehensive Guide to Notre-Dame de la Garde: Marseille’s Iconic Monument (notredamedelagarde.com)
Marseille Tourism Official Site (marseille-tourisme.com)