Mondial La Marseillaise à Pétanque 2025

Every summer since 1962, Marseille has come alive with the sounds of clashing pétanque boules and crowds gathered under the trees. What began as a local competition has grown into the largest pétanque tournament in the world - the Mondial La Marseillaise à Pétanque. With over 10,000 players and 150,000 spectators in attendance each year, it’s more than just a tournament - it’s a Marseille institution.

Held in early July, the 2025 edition will again transform Parc Borély into a buzzing arena, with additional matches played across nearly 30 sites throughout the city. Whether you're competing or spectating, you'll be immersed in a scene where sport, tradition, and Mediterranean vibe meet.

The tournament will kick off on Sunday, July 6 and run through Wednesday, July 9. Prior to the main event, youth and women’s competitions will take place starting Friday, July 4. And here's the best part: you don’t need to be a pro. The tournament is famously inclusive - anyone can register a team of three and take part. It's a rare chance to play in a world-class competition where amateurs regularly face off against professionals.

Matches follow the classic pétanque rules: the first team to reach 13 points wins. There are no time limits and no rush - just skill, strategy, and good company.

Marseille hotel rooms fill up fast in July, especially during major events like this. If you want a more relaxed, flexible, and often more scenic option, camping is the way to go. Here are four standout campgrounds you can book right now through JetCamp:

Camping Le Devançon (Peynier)

Situated in the tranquil village of Peynier, Camping Le Devançon offers a peaceful retreat approximately 35 kilometers from Marseille. This 3-star campground spans 1.4 hectares of pine and oak woodland, providing 58 campsites and 19 rental accommodations. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a playground, and a snack bar. The campground is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to hiking trails around Sainte-Victoire mountain.

Camping Pascalounet (Martigues )

Located just 100 meters from the sandy beaches of La Saulce and Sainte-Croix, Camping Pascalounet is a family-run campground that has been welcoming guests since 1958. The site offers a range of accommodations, including mobile homes and bungalows, all equipped with air conditioning. Amenities include a snack bar, free Wi-Fi, and a children's playground.

Camping Les Tamaris Martigues (La Couronne)

Located in a quiet bay along the Côte Bleue, Camping Les Tamaris offers direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. This 3-star campground features 133 campsites and a variety of accommodations, including mobile homes and chalets. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a play area, and a snack bar.

All of these sites can be booked via JetCamp making your planning smooth and transparent.

Of course, pétanque might be what brings you here - but it’s not the only reason to stick around. Marseille is France’s oldest city, founded by Greek settlers in 600 BCE. Today, it’s a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and sights. Spend a morning at the Marché du Prado, enjoy a bowl of bouillabaisse (traditional Provençal fish soup) at a seaside bistro, or hike the Calanques (unique kind of geological formation made of limestone) and swim in hidden coves with turquoise water. The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers a panoramic view of it all, and the MUCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) is a must-see for culture lovers.