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

Ménerbes Beaches

Overview

Ménerbes offers a classic Provençal experience, a hilltop village surrounded by the vineyards and fields of the Luberon. While it is not a coastal town, its location makes it an ideal base for exploring the countryside, with the diverse beaches of the Mediterranean just a day trip away. Reaching the sea requires a drive of about an hour and a half to two hours, allowing you to combine the charm of inland Provence with a memorable visit to the coast.

The coastline accessible from Ménerbes presents a variety of stunning options. For a truly dramatic landscape, the breathtaking cove of Calanque d'En-vau is a postcard-perfect swimming spot within the Calanques National Park. If you prefer a classic town beach, Plage de la Grande Mer in the heart of Cassis is a popular choice for visitors. For families seeking wide sandy stretches and calm water, the expansive Prado Beach near Marseille is an excellent, hassle-free option.

Beyond these editor's picks, the region's shores have even more to offer. You can find everything from the vast, wild dunes at Plage de l'Espiguette to the sheltered, family-friendly sands of the Côte Bleue, such as at Plage de Sainte-Croix. Each destination provides a unique seaside experience, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a lively town atmosphere. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal possibilities, see the longer list of beaches in this guide.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches in Ménerbes itself?

No, Ménerbes is a hilltop village located inland in the heart of the Luberon region of Provence. There are no sea beaches in or immediately around the village. Reaching the Mediterranean coast requires a drive.

How far is Ménerbes from the sea?

The drive from Ménerbes to the nearest Mediterranean beaches takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific coastal town you are visiting. A car is essential for the journey.

Is Ménerbes a good base for a beach holiday?

Ménerbes is an excellent base for exploring the villages, markets, and countryside of the Luberon, with the option for a day trip to the coast. However, if your primary goal is to spend most of your time at the beach, it is better to stay in a coastal town, as the daily drive can be long, especially with summer traffic.

What are the closest and most popular beach destinations from Ménerbes?

The most popular coastal areas for a day trip are to the south and west of Marseille. These include the dramatic rocky coves of the Calanques National Park near Cassis, the family-friendly sandy beaches at La Ciotat, and the charming coastline of the Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) west of Marseille.

Should we stay in a villa in Ménerbes with a pool or stay closer to the coast?

This depends on your ideal holiday. Renting a villa with a pool in Ménerbes offers a classic Provençal experience of countryside tranquility, village life, and local markets, with the pool serving as your daily swimming spot. If your priority is the sea, staying on the coast is more convenient. Many visitors find a villa with a pool in the Luberon to be the perfect compromise.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which is better for a day trip from Ménerbes: Cassis or the Côte Bleue?

The choice depends on your preference. Cassis is famous for its picturesque harbor and as the gateway to the stunning Calanques, which are beautiful but often require hiking to reach small, pebbly coves. The Côte Bleue, with towns like Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins, offers a more relaxed, local feel with a mix of pebble and sandy beaches that are often easier to access.

Are there sandy beaches near Ménerbes?

Yes, but you have to drive to them. For wide, sandy beaches, your best options are towns like La Ciotat or Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer (Plage des Lecques), which are known for being family-friendly. The beaches in the Calanques are typically pebble or rock, not sand.

What is the best way to get to the Calanques from Ménerbes?

The best way is to drive to the town of Cassis, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Cassis, you can access the first Calanques, Port-Miou and Port-Pin, on foot. For the more dramatic Calanque d'En-Vau, be prepared for a significant hike. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from the harbor in Cassis to see the Calanques from the water.

Calanque de Port Pin

Calanque d'En-vau

Are there any swimming alternatives to the sea that are closer to Ménerbes?

Yes, there are several freshwater swimming options closer than the coast. The Étang de la Bonde near Cadenet is a popular local lake with a beach area. You can also find spots for paddling and swimming in the Sorgue river, particularly near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, which is famous for its cool, clear water.

What should I know about driving and parking when visiting the coast in the summer?

In July and August, traffic heading to the coast can be very heavy, significantly increasing travel time. Parking in popular coastal towns like Cassis is extremely difficult and expensive. It is highly recommended to leave early in the morning to find a spot, or consider using park-and-ride facilities where available.

Are the beaches near Cassis suitable for families with young children?

The main beach in Cassis itself, Plage de la Grande Mer, is a mix of sand and gravel and is suitable for families. However, the famous Calanques beaches often require strenuous hiking on steep, rocky paths, making them challenging for young children. For more accessible, family-friendly sandy beaches, towns like La Ciotat or Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer are generally better choices.

Plage de la Grande Mer