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

Eygalières Beaches

Overview

Eygalières offers the best of both worlds: a charming Provençal village experience nestled in the Alpilles mountains with the Mediterranean coast just a day trip away. While the village itself is inland, its location provides a perfect base for exploring the diverse coastline of the South of France, all within an hour's drive. A car is essential to discover the region's shores, giving you the freedom to trade serene olive groves for sea breezes whenever you wish.

From Eygalières, you can drive towards two distinct coastal landscapes. To the southeast lies the dramatic limestone coast of the Calanques National Park. Here you can find the stunning, fjord-like cove of Calanque d'En-vau, a scenic reward for hikers, and the lively town beach of Cassis, Plage de la Grande Mer. Alternatively, head south to the Camargue, a vast natural park where you'll discover a wilder side of Provence. This area is home to the immense, untamed shores of Piemanson and the windswept dunes of Plage de l'Espiguette.

The variety extends beyond these iconic spots. The nearby Côte Bleue offers sheltered, family-friendly beaches like the sandy cove of Plage de Sainte-Croix, known for its idyllic setting. Whether you seek dramatic hikes to secluded coves, sprawling sands, or a convenient town beach, you can find it. Our comprehensive guide to the beaches near Eygalières details these and many other destinations, ensuring you can perfectly balance an authentic village retreat with sun-drenched coastal adventures.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches in Eygalières?

No, Eygalières is a picturesque inland village located in the heart of the Alpilles mountains, not on the coast. There are no beaches within the village itself. To reach the Mediterranean Sea, you will need to travel by car.

How far is Eygalières from the nearest beach?

The nearest beaches are approximately a 50 to 75-minute drive from Eygalières. The wild, sandy beaches of the Camargue, like Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, are about an hour's drive south. The beaches of the Côte Bleue, near Carry-le-Rouet, are also about an hour away. The famous Calanques near Cassis are slightly further, at around a 75 to 90-minute drive.

Is Eygalières a good base for a beach holiday?

Eygalières is an excellent base for a classic Provençal holiday focused on exploring charming villages, markets, vineyards, and the Alpilles' natural beauty. While it's not a traditional beach holiday destination, it is entirely possible to take day trips to the coast. It's best suited for travelers who want a peaceful, authentic village experience with the option of visiting the sea, rather than those who want to be on the beach every day.

Do I need a car to visit the beaches from Eygalières?

Yes, a car is essential for reaching the coast from Eygalières. Public transport options are very limited and would be extremely time-consuming. A car gives you the flexibility to explore different types of beaches, from the sandy stretches of the Camargue to the rocky coves of the Calanques.

Since there are no beaches, are there hotels in Eygalières with good pools?

Yes, many of the hotels, guesthouses (maisons d'hôtes), and especially the holiday rental villas (mas) in and around Eygalières feature beautiful swimming pools. A private pool is often considered a key amenity for a summer stay in the Alpilles and serves as the primary way to cool off and relax.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What are the beaches near Eygalières like?

You have two main choices. To the south, the Camargue offers vast, wild, sandy beaches like Plage de Piémanson, which are less developed and have a natural feel. To the southeast, you'll find the Côte Bleue and the area around Cassis. Here, the coastline is more dramatic, with a mix of pebble beaches and stunning rocky inlets known as Calanques, which often require a hike to access.

Piemanson

Which is better for a day trip: the Camargue beaches or the Calanques?

It depends on your preference. For a classic, relaxed beach day with wide sandy shores and easier access, head to the Camargue (e.g., Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer). For dramatic scenery, hiking, and swimming in stunning turquoise coves, choose the Calanques National Park near Cassis. Be aware that accessing the Calanques can involve hiking and may have restrictions during high fire-risk periods in summer.

Are there any family-friendly beaches near Eygalières?

Yes, for families, the beaches of the Côte Bleue like Plage de Sainte-Croix in Martigues or the main beach in Cassis are good options. They are generally sandy, have calmer, shallow waters, and offer amenities like restaurants and restrooms. The large Prado beaches in Marseille are also very family-friendly with playgrounds and vast lawns, though it's a longer drive.

Plage de St Croix

Can you swim anywhere in or right next to Eygalières?

There are no public lakes or rivers for swimming directly in Eygalières. The name Eygalières is derived from the Latin for 'place that collects water,' referring to local springs, but these are not swimming spots. The best option for swimming without driving to the sea is to book accommodation with a private pool, which is very common for villas and many hotels in the area.

When is the best time to visit Eygalières for a mix of sightseeing and beach trips?

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) are ideal. During these months, the weather is warm enough for both swimming and exploring the Provençal villages without the intense heat and peak-season crowds of July and August. This makes the drive to the coast more pleasant and the beaches less crowded.