Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, South of France (le Midi), France

Apt Beaches

Overview

Visitors looking for beaches in Apt will discover it’s a charming inland town in the heart of Provence's Luberon region, not a coastal destination. Instead of sand and sea, swimming here revolves around refreshing freshwater lakes and rivers. Apt is the perfect base for exploring the idyllic countryside, lavender fields, and hilltop villages, with the understanding that a trip to the Mediterranean coast is an enjoyable day trip, roughly an hour and a half to two hours away.

For those making the scenic drive to the sea, the coastline offers dramatic and beautiful options. This guide's top picks include the iconic Calanque d'En-vau, a stunning reward for those who make the hike to its shores. Nearby, the more accessible Calanque de Port Pin provides a picture-perfect cove framed by pine trees. For a different experience, Plage de la Grande Mer puts you right in the lively heart of Cassis village, while Plage de St Croix on the Côte Bleue is a sandy cove beloved by locals for its relaxed atmosphere.

Ultimately, the choice between staying in Apt or a coastal town depends on your holiday priorities. Apt is ideal for a classic Provençal experience, with local swimming spots like the popular Étang de la Bonde offering a family-friendly alternative to the sea. If daily ocean swims are a must, a coastal base would be more suitable. For a complete look at all the freshwater spots and coastal day trips available, see our comprehensive list of beaches.

Top Beaches

Plan d'Eau de la Riaille

The only true in-town option, this leisure lake provides a convenient and family-friendly place to cool off right in Apt. This man-made lake, fed by the Riaille river, is set within an 8-hectare park, offering a refreshing freshwater alternative to the distant sea. It is a pleasant and relaxed place, ideal for a stroll around the water or a picnic on the grassy banks. The atmosphere is distinctly local, a popular gathering spot for residents seeking simple pleasures and a break from the summer heat. With views of the Luberon massif in the background, it provides a peaceful natural setting just a stone's throw from the town center. It truly serves as a cherished local oasis for both relaxation and recreation.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches in Apt, France?

Apt is a town located inland in the heart of Provence's Luberon region, so it does not have any coastal beaches. The 'beaches' that locals and visitors enjoy are freshwater swimming spots at nearby lakes and rivers. The most popular is the Étang de la Bonde, a large lake with a supervised swimming area.

How far is Apt from the sea?

The nearest Mediterranean beaches, such as those near Cassis, La Ciotat, or Marseille, are approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Apt. Many visitors staying in the Luberon take a full-day trip to the coast to experience the famous Calanques (rocky inlets) or sandy shores.

Is Apt a good base for a beach holiday?

Apt is an excellent base for exploring the charming hilltop villages, markets, and lavender fields of the Luberon, but it is not ideal for a traditional beach holiday where you want to be by the sea every day. It's better suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of countryside exploration with occasional day trips to freshwater lakes or a longer drive to the Mediterranean coast.

Where can you swim near Apt?

The main swimming spot near Apt is the Étang de la Bonde, a lake with clear water, grassy areas for sunbathing, and supervised swimming in the summer. For a different experience, you can try river swimming in places like the Gorges du Toulourenc or find calmer spots along the Sorgue river, though these are more rustic. Additionally, the Plan d'eau de la Riaille in Apt itself offers a leisure park with pools.

Are there any hotels or campsites with direct beach access near Apt?

While there are no sea beaches, there are accommodations with direct access to lake swimming. The Camping de l'Étang de la Bonde is located right on the shores of the lake, offering pitches and mobile homes with immediate access to the water. This is a popular option for those wanting a holiday centered around freshwater swimming.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is the Étang de la Bonde good for families?

Yes, the Étang de la Bonde is very popular with families. During the summer, a portion of the lake is supervised by lifeguards, and the water is generally calm and reaches pleasant temperatures around 25°C (77°F). There are also snack bars, picnic areas, and surrounding pine forests for walks, making it a complete family-friendly outing.

Can you do water sports near Apt?

Yes, but on a smaller scale than the coast. At lakes like Étang de la Bonde or Lac de Monteux (a bit further away), you can often enjoy activities like pedal boating or canoeing. For more extensive water sports like sailing and windsurfing, larger lakes such as Lac de Sainte-Croix, about a 2-hour drive away, are a better destination.

Should I stay in Apt (Luberon) or a coastal town like Cassis?

Choose Apt if you want to be immersed in classic Provence, with its markets, hilltop villages, and rolling vineyards, and are happy with lake swimming or driving for a beach day. Choose Cassis if your priority is daily access to the sea, boat trips to the Calanques, and a bustling fishing port atmosphere. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a countryside or a coastal holiday base.

What are the river swimming spots like near Apt?

River swimming in the region, for example in the Gorges du Toulourenc, offers a wild and natural experience. It often involves walking in the water along a riverbed surrounded by impressive cliffs and finding natural pools to cool off in. These spots are typically not supervised and can have varying water levels, so it's best for adventurous swimmers. Always check local conditions, as access can be restricted after heavy rain.

When is it warm enough to swim in the lakes around Apt?

The swimming season in the lakes and rivers around Apt generally runs from June to early September. The water in Étang de la Bonde can reach a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July and August. Outside of these peak summer months, the water will be significantly cooler.