The top secret swimming spots in the Var - hidden away from the bustling coastal beaches
When temperatures rise in the Var, the whole world heads to the coast. Yet, in deepest rural Provençal, there are plenty of delightful swimming spots: large turquoise lakes, rivers bordered by tall cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and shaded pools. From the spectacular landscapes of the Verdon valley to the lush trails of Provence Verte, here are some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the Var and the best way to enjoy summer away from the bustling coastal beaches.
Lac de Sainte-Croix
With its turquoise waters and its large beaches lined with oaks and pine trees, Lac de Sainte-Croix remains one of the greatest summer spots in the Verdon. Surrounded by hills and villages perched atop cliffs, alternating between vast wilderness and steeper terrain, the lake opens a gateway to the majestic Verdon gorges. Depending on the area, the atmosphere varies: sandy or rocky beaches, quieter coves accessible on foot or small marinas where you can rent pedal boats, paddle boards and electric boats. The main access points are around Bauduen, Les Salles-sur-Verdon, Aiguines and Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon.
Please note:
○ There are several supervised swimming areas in summer
○ There are numerous parking lots around the lake
○ In many areas you can rent paddleboards, pedal boats, canoes or electric boats
○ There are plenty of restaurants, snack bars and ice cream spots dotted around the lake
○ It gets extremely busy in July and August: please favour a morning visit
○ There’s the possibility of extending your day trip with a visit to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie or the Plateau de Valensole
Lac d'Esparron
More discreet than Sainte-Croix, Lac d’Esparron is pleasing thanks to its more peaceful atmosphere and its wildly wooded areas plunging into the water. The contrast between the limestone cliffs and the turquoise waters creates a particularly spectacular setting, especially in summer when the light grows more intense. Small beaches spread out with coves accessible by kayak or paddleboard, in an atmosphere that is often calmer than on the larger beach areas of the Verdon valley ad Lac de Sainte Croix. Two main access points allow you to enjoy the lake: around the Esparron marina and the Saint-Julien beach, which is particularly popular for swimming.
Please note:
○ There is supervised swimming on certain beaches in season
○ There are water activities and rentals on site
○ There are some restaurants around the lake and in the village
○ Several areas accessible only on foot or by boat
○ This spot is very pleasant in the late season too
○ It is ideal to combine with the lower gorges of Verdon and the village of Esparron-de-Verdon
Caramy Gorges
Located near the village of Tourves, the Caramy Gorges stretch for approximately five kilometers, from the Roman Bridge to the Saut du Cabri waterfall. The trail follows the river through rocky passages, small pools, and several shady patches of stony beach beside dells of holm oaks. Some access points lead to popular swimming spots during the summer. There are no developed beaches or water sports here: people come mainly to walk, picnic, and enjoy the river’s soothing cool. Hiking enthusiasts can follow the trails along the Caramy or climb higher to admire the waterfalls.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ This spot is accessible only on foot from Tourves
○ Please wear sturdy shoes
○ There is no immediate food service on site or nearby, only restaurants and shops in the nearest village
○ A few minutes away is Château de Valbelle, remains of an 18th-century palace
Lac de Quinson et Lac d'Artignosc
Near the village of Quinson, the Verdon river forms a series of small lakes stretching to Lac d’Artignosc, at the entrance to the lower gorges. Quieter than Sainte-Croix or Esparron, the Quinson and Artignosc lakes reveal a more intimate side of the Verdon, dotted with small beaches, narrow passages cut into the rock, and almost perfectly untouched stretches along the water. Whether venturing by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, progress is slow and leisurely in this still largely unspoiled environment. Swimming is best near the Quinson bridge and at Artignosc beach.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ There are specified canoe and paddleboard launch sites
○ There is parking near the village and bridge
○ There are no waterside restaurant, but snack bars and similar in the centre of Quinson village
○ The area also includes Lake Montpezat where swimming is prohibited
○ This is the starting point for the magnificent Canal Keeper hike (1.5 hours, accessible to all)
Vallon Sourn
Between Correns and Châteauvert, the Vallon Sourn is one of the most beautiful natural sites in the Provence Verte region. The Argens river meanders at the foot of high limestone cliffs, and slows to a shallow river, creating several popular swimming areas during the summer. The water remains cool even during the hottest days, while the pine trees and vegetation offer numerous shady spots along the river. The site attracts swimmers, climbers, canoeists, and hikers alike. The atmosphere remains very natural, with a series of small access points allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery throughout the valley.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ There is very little parking near the main access points
○ There is canoeing and rock climbing in the area
○ There are several shaded spots along the river
○ There are no food services nearby, the nearest restaurants and cafes are in the nearby village of Correns
○ Don’t miss the self-guided tour of the sculpture park at the Châteauvert Contemporary Art Centre
La Muie
As you enter the village of Salernes, La Muie beckons. It is a natural pool fed by the waters of the Bresque River. Long known to locals, it has become one of the most popular swimming spots in the Haut-Var region. Surrounded by vegetation, the site offers a pleasant setting to cool off on hot summer days. Its clear waters, constantly boosted and refreshed by the river, remain cool even in the height of summer. With its shallow spots and easy access, La Muie is perfect for families simply looking for a few relaxing hours by the water.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ The water remains cool throughout the year (around 18–20°C / 64–68°F in summer)
○ There is parking near the site
○ There are no toilets, refreshments or other facilities on site
○ Water shoes are recommended for entering the natural pool
○ Dogs are not permitted in order to preserve the quality of the site
Vallon des Carmes
In the rolling hills above Barjols, the Vallon des Carmes offers one of the most beautiful riverside hikes in the Haut-Var. Marked by the Fauvery River, this 30-hectare natural walking site reveals a series of waterfalls, turquoise pools, and limestone cliffs sculpted over centuries by the rushing water. The walking trail also passed the ruins of a convent founded by the Carmelites in the 17th century, as well as ruins of the industrial work that has shaped the history of the valley. Classified in France as a Natura 2000 site, it boasts remarkable biodiversity in an environment that is particularly refreshing and invigorating during the summer.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ Access is on foot from the car park; suitable walking shoes are recommended
○ The site is part of the Natura 2000 protected area network
○ Access to the surrounding forest areas is regulated; please check with the Tourist Office in advance, as the site may be temporarily closed
The Bresque River
Originating in the Pélenc forest in Fox-Amphoux, the Bresque flows through several villages in the Haut-Var region before joining the Argens river near Carcès. At the foot of the medieval village of Entrecasteaux, the river offers a welcome respite from the summer heat, with several small waterfalls and pools bordered by verdant brush and tress. Near the D50 road, an old 18th-century aqueduct built by Raymond de Bruny spans the river with a double arch of dressed stone. The site is ideal for swimming, picnicking, fishing, or spending a few hours in the shade of the trees playing pétanques.
Please note:
○ This is entirely unsupervised swimming
○ There is parking nearby
○ Nearby restaurants and cafes can be found in Entrecasteaux
○ There is a children’s playground, pétanque court, and picnic areas on site
○ This spot is ideal for a few hours by the water after exploring the village
