Is Salernes a good place for a beach holiday?
Salernes is an inland Provençal village, not a coastal resort. While it offers a charming base to explore Provence, if your main goal is daily access to Mediterranean Sea beaches, you might find it a bit far. However, it's excellent for a mixed holiday with day trips to nearby lakes, rivers, and the coast.
How far is Salernes from the nearest proper sea beaches?
Salernes is about 50-70 kilometers (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours' drive) from popular Mediterranean coastal towns like Fréjus, Sainte-Maxime, or Saint-Raphaël. Travel times can increase significantly during peak summer months due to traffic.
Can you swim in Salernes itself?
Yes, Salernes has a natural freshwater swimming area on the River Bresque, sometimes referred to as La Muie or Salernes baignade. It's located on the edge of the village. While it's a lovely spot, for more extensive beach facilities or larger bodies of water, you'd typically drive to nearby lakes or the coast.
What are the best alternatives to sea beaches near Salernes for swimming?
The most popular alternative is Lac de Sainte-Croix, a large, beautiful freshwater lake with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It's much closer than the coast. There are also other river swimming spots in the region, like those along the Argens or near waterfalls like Sillans-la-Cascade (always check local swimming permissions).
How far is Lac de Sainte-Croix from Salernes and is it easy to get to?
Lac de Sainte-Croix is approximately a 30-45 minute drive (around 25-36 km) from Salernes. The roads are generally good, making it an easy and popular day trip. A car is essential for the journey.
Is Lac de Sainte-Croix good for families with children?
Yes, Lac de Sainte-Croix is very family-friendly. Many of its beaches have gently sloping shores, and you can rent pedalos, kayaks, and electric boats. Amenities like snack bars and toilets are available at popular spots like Les Salles-sur-Verdon or Bauduen. Some areas also have supervised swimming in summer.
What's the water like at Lac de Sainte-Croix for swimming?
The water at Lac de Sainte-Croix is known for its stunning turquoise color and clarity. It's freshwater and generally calm, making it pleasant for swimming. The water temperature is refreshing, becoming quite warm in peak summer (July-August), though it can vary.
Are there any hidden gem swimming spots or local secrets near Salernes?
While Lac de Sainte-Croix is well-known, locals might know smaller, less crowded spots along the Bresque or Argens rivers. The Saint Barthélémy Valley near Salernes is mentioned as a beautiful area with the Bresque river offering natural pools. Exploring near villages like Entrecasteaux or Sillans-la-Cascade (beyond the main waterfall viewing area, where permitted) can sometimes reveal quieter places. Always respect private property and local regulations.
Do I need a car to visit beaches or swimming spots from Salernes?
Yes, a car is highly recommended, if not essential. Salernes is a rural village, and public transport to coastal beaches or even to Lac de Sainte-Croix can be limited and infrequent. A car gives you the flexibility to explore different locations effectively.
When is the best time to visit beaches or swim near Salernes?
For coastal beaches and Lac de Sainte-Croix, May to September offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. July and August are peak season, meaning more crowds and higher temperatures. Spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) can be ideal for pleasant weather and fewer people, with the water often still warm enough for swimming.
Is it better to go to Lac de Sainte-Croix or the Mediterranean coast from Salernes for a day trip?
It depends on your preference. Lac de Sainte-Croix is much closer (30-45 mins), offers stunning freshwater swimming, and activities like kayaking in the Verdon Gorge. The Mediterranean coast (1-1.5+ hrs) provides the classic Riviera beach experience. For a shorter, easier trip, especially with kids, the lake is often preferred. For a full day out and a saltwater experience, the coast is a good option if you don't mind the drive.
Are there any beaches near Salernes that are good for watersports?
Lac de Sainte-Croix is excellent for watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, sailing, and pedal boating, with rental facilities available at several points around the lake, such as Les Salles-sur-Verdon. Coastal beaches near Fréjus or Sainte-Maxime also offer a wide range of motorized and non-motorized watersports.
What should I pack for a day at Lac de Sainte-Croix or a river spot near Salernes?
Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, hats, and water shoes (as some lake/river beds can be rocky or pebbly). A picnic blanket, food, and plenty of water are also good ideas, as facilities can be spread out. Consider a parasol for shade, especially at natural river spots. For some watersports, a windbreaker might be useful.
Are the swimming areas near Salernes (like lakes or rivers) usually crowded?
Popular spots at Lac de Sainte-Croix, especially beaches near villages like Bauduen or Les Salles-sur-Verdon, and access points to the Verdon Gorge, can get very crowded in July and August, particularly on weekends. River spots can vary; some well-known ones might be busy, while others are quieter. Visiting on weekdays or earlier/later in the day during peak season can help avoid the biggest crowds.
Can you recommend any specific beaches on Lac de Sainte-Croix accessible from Salernes?
From Salernes, popular and accessible beaches on Lac de Sainte-Croix include those near Les Salles-sur-Verdon, which has good facilities. Bauduen also offers charming beaches with pebble coves. The beaches near Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon village are also well-equipped. For access to the Verdon Gorge by boat, the Galetas bridge area is a key point, with small beach areas nearby.
