THERE IS ANOTHER MARSEILLAN, a hidden haven of tranquility locked away behind the bustling cafes and creperies of the port. Here time has stood still for generations and here summer is an endless private moment in the shade of the tallest trees. Here spring is heralded by the exultation of returning swallows, swooping and looping around the eaves and autumn tolls the knell of summer with its ochre skies as afternoons doze into dusk. 
 
Very few visitors ever get to see behind the gateway and beyond the brick vaulted arch into the private word of the Galawa apartments. From the quays, you may admire a smart freshly painted facade, with Mediterannean blue shutters, but we are deighted to be able, for the first time, to welcome our guests to a delightful one-bedroom ground floor apartment, tastefully and stylishly refurbished, perfect bolthole for couples, or a retreat for two or three friends to share. 
 
Step through the central arch, like a cathedral butress silhouetted against a bright blue sky, and open the litte gate into the apartment's own private patio, with potted plants, a stylishly tiled veranda area for an aperitif before strolling to take supper at the quayside restaurants. 
 
The open plan living area, exposed centuries-old stones and beams exposed l, has its comfortable sofa (converts into a guest bed) and the dining suite. A warm and smart room, ideal for entertaining. A neatly conceived smart and contemporary kitchen area, has four ring electric hob, oven, microwave fridge and, essential extra for those who love cooking and eating but draw the line at working after dessert - the dishwasher. 
 
Beyond the open-plan space is the privacy of the bedroom, the light of the dawn filters in through a skylight and a comfortable double bed is the centre piece of this snuggest of snug dens. A brand new bathroom has a spacious shower and wc. And there's wifi too!