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

Gordes Beaches

Overview

While Gordes is a quintessential Provençal hilltop village, it is not a coastal town. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea is well within reach for memorable day trips. Most of the region's famous beaches are a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive away, offering the perfect combination of countryside charm and seaside adventure. This unique location allows you to explore the Luberon's famous markets and lavender fields while still being able to enjoy the coast.

The coastline accessible from Gordes offers dramatic and varied choices. You can journey to the breathtaking limestone inlets of the Calanques National Park, home to the iconic Calanque d'En-vau and the more easily hiked Calanque de Port Pin. For a classic and accessible beach day, Plage de la Grande Mer in the heart of Cassis serves as the vibrant gateway to this region. Or, for a completely different feel, you can discover the wild, windswept dunes and endless sand of Plage de l'Espiguette in the Camargue.

Whether you prefer the dramatic scenery of a hidden, pebbly cove or the feeling of endless sand, the options are plentiful. For those seeking wide, family-friendly sandy shores, beaches along the Côte Bleue or near Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer are also popular choices. Our comprehensive guide explores these and many other destinations, helping you find the perfect seaside escape to complement your stay in the heart of Provence.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Gordes a good base for a beach holiday?

Gordes is a stunning hilltop village in the Luberon, but it's not a coastal town. The nearest Mediterranean beaches are about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. It's perfect for a Provençal countryside experience with day trips to the sea, but if you want to be on the beach every day, it's better to stay in a coastal town like Cassis or Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.

How far is the closest beach from Gordes and how long does it take to get there?

The closest beaches to Gordes are on the Côte Bleue, west of Marseille, such as those near Carry-le-Rouet, which are approximately a 90-minute drive (around 90-100 km). Beaches near Cassis or in the Camargue are a bit further, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic.

What are the best sandy beaches to visit on a day trip from Gordes?

For wide, sandy beaches, the Camargue region is a great choice, particularly Plage de Piémanson or the beaches near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Another popular option is the large sandy beach at Les Lecques in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, which is well-suited for families. These are all a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Gordes.

Piemanson

Are the beaches near Gordes pebbly or sandy?

The beaches accessible from Gordes offer a mix. The famous Calanques near Cassis have small pebble or rock beaches at the end of stunning inlets. The Côte Bleue has a mix of sand and pebble coves. For expansive sandy beaches, you should head towards the Camargue region or specific resorts like Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.

Should I stay in Gordes and drive to the beach, or stay in a coastal town?

If your priority is to explore the hilltop villages, markets, and lavender fields of the Luberon, staying in Gordes and making one or two day trips to the beach is ideal. If your main goal is a beach-focused holiday with daily swimming in the sea, you would be better off staying in a coastal town like Cassis, Bandol, or Antibes.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is it better to visit the Calanques de Cassis or the Camargue beaches from Gordes?

It depends on your preference. The Calanques offer breathtaking scenery with fjord-like inlets and turquoise water, ideal for hiking and boat tours, but the beaches are small and often pebbly. The Camargue offers a wild, natural landscape with vast, sandy beaches, flamingos, and a more rustic feel. Both are a significant but rewarding day trip from Gordes.

Are there any good swimming spots near Gordes that aren't the sea?

Yes, many locals and visitors enjoy swimming in the nearby lakes and rivers as an alternative to driving to the coast. The Étang de la Bonde in Cabrières-d'Aigues is a popular freshwater lake for swimming. The Sorgue river also offers cool, clear water, and some people swim in the Gorges de Toulourenc for a 'wild swimming' experience.

Are the Calanques accessible for families with young children staying in Gordes?

Accessing the Calanques by foot can be challenging for young children due to steep and rocky trails, especially in the summer heat. A more family-friendly way to experience them from Gordes is by taking a boat tour from the port of Cassis. This allows you to see the stunning coastline without the strenuous hike.

What is the atmosphere like at the beaches near Provence vs the French Riviera?

Beaches west of Marseille (Côte Bleue, Camargue) accessible from Gordes often have a more relaxed, natural, and local feel. The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) beaches, like those near Saint-Tropez or Cannes, are generally more glamorous, crowded, and have more beach clubs and amenities, but are a longer drive from Gordes.

Is it better to book accommodation with a pool in Gordes?

Given that the drive to the nearest beach is at least 90 minutes, having a pool at your accommodation in Gordes is a very popular and practical choice. It allows you to relax and cool off easily on hot Provençal days without committing to a full day trip to the coast.

See the full list of accommodation options here.