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

Vedène Beaches

Overview

While Vedène itself is a charming inland town, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the diverse beaches of Provence. You won't find any coastline in town, but the Mediterranean's famous shores are just an hour to ninety minutes away by car. This unique position allows you to combine relaxing beach days with visits to Provence's renowned historical sites and markets, offering a holiday with plenty of variety.

From Vedène, a short drive south-west takes you to the wild, windswept coast of the Camargue. Here you can discover the immense, dune-backed shores of Plage de l'Espiguette, one of the region's most famous beaches. For a more local experience, the vast and untamed Piemanson offers an authentic taste of the Camargue's natural beauty. Heading in a different direction, towards the west of Marseille, you'll find the sheltered coves of the Côte Bleue, where the picturesque and calm waters of Plage de St Croix are ideal for families.

For those seeking truly dramatic scenery, the breathtakingly beautiful cove of Calanque d'En-vau is an unforgettable destination, well worth the journey. Many visitors also enjoy the lively town beaches at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which offer a different atmosphere from the more isolated spots. These are just a few highlights, and our complete guide explores many more coastal gems accessible from Vedène.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there beaches in Vedène?

No, Vedène is an inland town in Provence, so it does not have any beaches. The nearest Mediterranean sea beaches are about an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive away. However, there are popular local swimming spots in nearby rivers and lakes.

Where can you swim near Vedène if not in the sea?

There are several excellent freshwater swimming options near Vedène. Many people swim in the clear, cool Sorgue river, with popular access points at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. The nearby Lac de Monteux is a large lake with a sandy beach, lifeguards in summer, and water activities, making it a great family alternative.

How far are the closest sea beaches from Vedène?

The closest Mediterranean beaches are approximately a 60 to 90-minute drive from Vedène. You can head southwest to the wild, sandy beaches of the Camargue, like those near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, or south towards the coves and town beaches of the Côte Bleue, just west of Marseille.

Is Vedène a good base for a beach holiday?

Vedène is an excellent base if you want to combine a few beach days with exploring the wider Provence region, including Avignon, the Luberon villages, and local markets. However, if your main goal is to spend every day by the sea, a coastal town would be more convenient.

Do I need a car to visit beaches from Vedène?

Yes, a car is essential for reaching the coast from Vedène. Public transport options to the beach areas are very limited and time-consuming. A car provides the necessary flexibility to drive to the coast and explore different beaches at your own pace.

How do the Camargue beaches compare to the Côte d'Azur beaches?

The Camargue beaches, like Plage de Piémanson, are vast, wild, and natural with extensive sand dunes, offering a feeling of open space. The famous Côte d'Azur beaches (around Nice or Saint-Tropez) are generally more developed, often set in glamorous towns with many amenities, and can be pebbly rather than sandy.

Piemanson

What is the water like for swimming near Vedène?

In the summer, the Mediterranean Sea is warm, typically 20-25°C (68-77°F). The local rivers, like the Sorgue, are consistently much colder year-round, around 13°C (55°F), which can be incredibly refreshing on a hot Provençal day. The water at Lac de Monteux is warmer than the river and is rated as excellent quality for swimming.

When is the best time for a swimming holiday in the region?

June and September are often considered the best months. The weather and sea are warm, but the summer crowds have not yet peaked or have already dispersed. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. Be aware of the Mistral wind, which can create choppy conditions and feel cool, especially in the spring.

Are the nearby beaches and swimming spots family-friendly?

Yes, the region offers great options for families. Lac de Monteux is specifically designed for families, with a supervised beach and activities. On the coast, the beaches of the Côte Bleue (like Carry-le-Rouet) and some in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer often have calmer, shallower waters. The wilder Camargue beaches have fewer facilities, so you'll need to be self-sufficient.

Is it true you can see wild horses and flamingos near the beaches?

Yes, this is a unique feature of the Camargue region. While you won't typically see them on the main swimming beaches, the wetlands and salt marshes directly behind the coastline are home to the famous white Camargue horses and flocks of pink flamingos. The Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau is a fantastic place to see them.