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

Lorgues Beaches

Overview

Lorgues offers a perfect blend of Provençal village life and access to the famous beaches of the French Riviera. As an inland village, it provides an authentic South of France experience away from the coastal crowds, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The nearest Mediterranean shores are just a 40-45 minute drive away, making it an ideal base for those who want to combine relaxing in the countryside with exciting day trips to the sea. A car is essential to make the most of the region, giving you the freedom to explore the diverse coastline at your own pace.

From Lorgues, you can easily reach some of the most desirable beaches in the world. For a taste of glamour, head to the legendary Pampelonne Beach near Saint-Tropez, known for its vibrant beach clubs and celebrity sightings. For a more relaxed and convenient day by the water, the welcoming Beach du centre ville in Sainte-Maxime is an excellent choice. If breathtaking natural scenery is what you seek, the stunning fjord-like cove of Calanque d'En-vau is a truly memorable day trip, rewarding hikers with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.

The coastline accessible from Lorgues is full of variety, catering to every type of beachgoer. Photographers and explorers will love the series of wild, picturesque coves at Plage de l'Escalet, a spot celebrated on social media for its rugged beauty. These highlights are just the beginning, as countless other sandy stretches and hidden gems await discovery. For more ideas and to find the perfect beach for your trip, be sure to explore our complete list of the best beaches in the area.

FAQ

People Also Ask

How far is Lorgues from the nearest beach?

Lorgues is an inland Provençal village, not a coastal town. The nearest Mediterranean beaches, such as those in Sainte-Maxime and Fréjus, are approximately a 40-45 minute drive away. The famous beaches of the Saint-Tropez peninsula are a bit further, taking about an hour or more to reach by car, depending on traffic.

Is Lorgues a good base for a beach holiday?

Lorgues is an excellent base if you want to combine a classic Provençal village experience with occasional beach day trips. It's ideal for travelers who enjoy local markets, vineyards, and a quieter atmosphere but still want access to the coast. However, if your priority is to spend every day at the beach, staying directly in a coastal town like Sainte-Maxime might be more convenient.

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

Yes, a car is highly recommended. While there are some limited bus services to coastal towns like Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez, they can be infrequent. A car provides the flexibility to explore different beaches at your own pace, discover less crowded spots, and is almost essential for navigating the region effectively.

What are the best family-friendly beaches for a day trip from Lorgues?

For a family day trip, the beaches in Sainte-Maxime, like Plage du centre ville, are a great choice due to their central location, amenities, and calmer waters. Fréjus Plage is another excellent option, offering a long, sandy beach with lifeguards and nearby activities at the Base Nature François Léotard.

Beach du centre ville

Beach de Fréjus

Are there villas with pools in Lorgues as an alternative to a beach hotel?

Yes, Lorgues is very well known for its vacation rentals, including many Provençal houses ('bastides') and villas that have private pools. This is a very popular accommodation choice in the area, offering a relaxing private alternative to a busy day at the coast.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are there any lakes or rivers for swimming near Lorgues as an alternative to the sea?

Yes, absolutely. A popular alternative is the Lac de Sainte-Croix, about a 50-minute drive north, known for its stunning turquoise water where you can swim, rent pedalos, or kayaks. The Gorges du Verdon also offers spectacular river swimming opportunities. Closer by, you can find swimming spots in the Argens river.

What is the parking situation like at the beaches near Saint-Tropez?

Parking at the famous beaches around Saint-Tropez, like Pampelonne in Ramatuelle, typically requires a fee during the summer season. It's advisable to arrive early as lots can fill up quickly. Some other beaches, like Plage des Salins, may offer free parking, but it is often limited and highly sought after.

Pampelonne Beach

Which is better for a holiday: staying in Lorgues or a coastal town like Sainte-Maxime?

The choice depends on your holiday style. Stay in Lorgues for an authentic Provençal experience with its famous market, vineyards, and tranquil evenings, using it as a base for varied day trips. Choose Sainte-Maxime if you want immediate beach access, a bustling seaside promenade, and a holiday centered around the sea.

What's the best way to get to Saint-Tropez from Lorgues?

The most direct way is by car, which takes about an hour without traffic. However, summer traffic into Saint-Tropez can be extremely heavy. A popular local tip is to drive to Sainte-Maxime (about 40 minutes) and then take a 15-minute ferry (Bateaux Verts) across the bay to Saint-Tropez, which avoids the worst of the traffic and parking challenges.

Are there quieter, less-crowded beaches accessible from Lorgues?

Yes, to find quieter spots, you often need to explore the coastline away from the main towns. Consider exploring the beaches around Le Lavandou, such as the charming Plage d'Aiguebelle, or the more secluded coves along the coast of Ramatuelle away from the main stretch of Pampelonne. A car is essential for reaching these less-frequented beaches.

Beach d'Aiguebelle

When is the best time to visit Lorgues for beach day trips?

For the best balance of warm swimming weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September. The sea is warm enough for swimming, but the summer peak traffic and crowds of July and August have either not yet arrived or have started to dissipate, making the drive to the coast and the beach experience more pleasant.