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

Régusse Beaches

Overview

When you think of a beach holiday in the South of France, the inland village of Régusse might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, it serves as a perfect base for exploring a different kind of coast: the stunning freshwater shores of the Verdon Gorge. Instead of the sea, you'll find the magnificent Lac de Sainte-Croix, famous for its brilliant turquoise water. This destination offers a unique beach experience, swapping sandy expanses for the dramatic scenery of Europe's most beautiful canyon.

The lake's most popular and accessible beach is Plage de Sainte-Croix, located in the charming village of the same name, making it a convenient hub for a day of swimming and relaxation. For a different vibe, the shores near the village of Bauduen offer a series of lovely pebble coves that are often considered among the prettiest on the lake. While the Verdon lakes are the main attraction, a day trip to the Mediterranean is also possible, with the legendary glamour of Pampelonne Beach near Saint-Tropez offering a classic French Riviera experience. Most of the lake beaches consist of pebbles and shingle, not sand, which is part of their natural charm.

Beyond these highlights, the shores of the Verdon are dotted with countless coves and quieter spots waiting to be discovered. From the well-known beaches to more secluded areas, the region provides a memorable setting for swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the Provençal sun. For more ideas and to find the perfect spot for your lakeside adventure, be sure to explore our complete guide to the beaches of the Verdon.

FAQ

People Also Ask

How far is Régusse from the nearest beaches?

Régusse is an inland village, not a coastal town. The nearest beaches are not on the Mediterranean Sea but are freshwater lake beaches. The closest is about a 15-20 minute drive (around 8.5 km) to the shores of the Lac de Sainte-Croix, part of the Gorges du Verdon. The nearest sea beaches are over an hour's drive away.

Is Régusse a good base for a beach holiday?

Régusse is an excellent base for a lake-focused holiday, centered around the spectacular Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix. If your idea of a beach holiday involves freshwater swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding against a backdrop of canyons and charming villages, it's a fantastic choice. It is not, however, suitable for a traditional Mediterranean seaside holiday.

Can you swim in the lakes near Régusse and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is very popular in the lakes near Régusse, especially Lac de Sainte-Croix and Lac d'Esparron. The water is famous for its stunning turquoise color, which comes from glacial minerals. It is generally calm and clear, but can be quite deep in places. In summer, the water temperature is comfortably warm, often reaching 24-26°C (75-79°F) in July and August.

Are the beaches around Lac de Sainte-Croix sandy?

Most beaches around Lac de Sainte-Croix are not sandy but are composed of small pebbles or shingle. While beautiful and clean, it's a good idea to bring water shoes for comfort, especially for children. Some areas might have coarser gravel, while others have finer, smoother pebbles.

What are the best villages to stay in for easy access to the Verdon lake beaches?

For direct access to Lac de Sainte-Croix's beaches, staying in Bauduen, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, or Les Salles-sur-Verdon is ideal. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a stunning village just a short drive from the lake. For a quieter experience closer to the lower gorges and Lac d'Esparron, consider villages like Esparron-de-Verdon or Quinson.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which is better for beaches: Lac de Sainte-Croix or Lac d'Esparron?

It depends on your preference. Lac de Sainte-Croix is larger, more famous, and has more accessible, family-friendly beaches, especially around villages like Bauduen and Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. It can be very busy. Lac d'Esparron is smaller, often considered wilder, and is known for its hidden coves and creeks, which are often accessible by a short walk or by boat. Its water is sometimes considered even warmer.

Are the lake beaches near the Verdon Gorge suitable for families with young children?

Yes, many beaches are family-friendly. The supervised beach in the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is particularly good as the water is shallow for a good distance. The beaches at Bauduen are also popular with families. For very young children, the lake at Artignosc is often recommended as it is smaller and has very shallow areas.

What's the best time of year to visit the Verdon lakes for swimming?

The best time for swimming is from late June to early September. During these months, the weather is hot and sunny, and the lake water has warmed up to comfortable temperatures, typically above 22°C (72°F). Visiting in late June or early September can be ideal to avoid the peak crowds of July and August.

Is it easy to find parking near the popular beaches of Lac de Sainte-Croix?

In the peak season of July and August, parking can be very challenging, especially at popular spots like the Galetas Bridge, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, and Bauduen. Many official parking areas are pay-and-display and fill up early in the day. It is highly recommended to arrive before 10 a.m. to secure a spot.

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches to escape the summer crowds?

Yes, to find quieter spots, you often need to walk a little or rent a boat. In Bauduen, walking west from the main village beach along the shore leads to smaller, more discreet pebble coves. Similarly, exploring the shores of Lac d'Esparron by foot or canoe can reveal many secluded creeks that are inaccessible by car.

Can you rent boats or paddleboards at the lakes?

Absolutely. Renting watercraft is one of the most popular activities. At all the main beaches, such as those at Galetas Bridge, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, and Bauduen, you'll find numerous rental outfits offering pedal boats (pédalos), kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and electric boats. Gas-powered motorboats are forbidden on Lac de Sainte-Croix to preserve the tranquility and water quality.

What's the difference between the beaches at Bauduen and Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon?

Both are popular villages on Lac de Sainte-Croix. The main beach at Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is wide, supervised in summer, and very accessible from the village, making it a top choice for families. Bauduen's beaches are a series of smaller pebble coves that stretch along the shoreline, offering a slightly more charming and varied experience. Bauduen is often praised for having some of the prettiest beaches on the lake.