Diary
Far from the crowds of the beaches and the coast, rivers are delightful places to swim and cool off when the temperatures rise. They often offer shaded spaces, which are very pleasant during the heat wave. Let us discover some of the most beautiful sites in the south of France for a refreshing summer break.
Occitanie : a few beautiful places to swim in fresh water
Aude : The gorges of Verdouble, Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse
In the heart of Cathar country, the Verdouble gorges are located one kilometer from the village of Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse. The site offers a succession of waterfalls and magnificent basins which are well suited for swimming. The area is busy in the summer, but fairly quiet outside the high season. The rocky terrain and natural water slides are sure to please canyoning enthusiasts. If you are interested in these type of adventures, don't forget to bring appropriate footwear. It is difficult to pass through the area without visiting one of the most beautiful Cathar castles, the Château de Peyrepertuse, which is located near this swimming area. Prepare your trip here.
Hérault : the Devil's Bridge, Saint-Jean-de-Fos
Located about 40 kilometers from Montpellier, the site of the Pont du Diable in Saint-Jean-Fos is without a doubt one of the most beautiful fresh water swimming sites in the region. How about swimming under the arches of one of the oldest Romanesque bridges in France? The bridge overlooks the magnificent gorges of the Hérault, narrow and winding, but deep enough to swim in. After the bridge, the river widens and its banks are lined with pebble beaches, ideal for lounging. Take advantage of your visit to this place to make a detour to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, located nearby, classified among the most beautiful villages of France, and a spiritual stop on the Way of Saint James. More information about this spot here.
Lozère : waterfalls of Martinet, Saint-Etienne-Vallée-Française
On the border of the Gard region, 11km from Saint-Jean-du-Gard and about 40km from Alès, in the heart of the Cévennes, the village of Saint-Etienne-Vallée-Française is home to a beautiful swimming spot: the Martinet waterfalls. Located on the Gardon de Mialet, this spot is accessible by a steep path where it is not uncommon to come across some beavers. It offers several beautiful natural pools which are very pleasant in summer. A lesser known and absolutely heavenly place, ideal for vacationers who want to find calm and coolness in the countryside. Learn more here.
Natural swimming areas in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Ardèche : the Pont d'Arc, Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
The Pont d'Arc marks the entrance to the gorges of Ardèche and makes a beautiful place to swim. This natural arch over Ardèche is the departure point for kayakers and canoers going down the river. It also offers beautiful natural beaches to rest after swimming. Located near the Chauvet cave and the Roure castle, the Pont d'Arc is an attractive site for athletes and families alike. Prepare your stay in Ardèche here.
Ardèche : the Devil's Bridge, Thuyets
Another Devil's bridge. What could be more normal since there are about ten of them in France. This one is located in Ardèche, and it is, along with the site of Pont d'Arc, one of the most beautiful places to swim in the region. The bridge itself dates back to the 15th century and is 17 meters high. The Ardèche river cuts a path through the cliffs, but the water is deep and suitable for swimming. Learn more here.
River swimming in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur
Var : the Vallon des Carmes, Barjols
Crossed by the Fauvery river, the Vallon des Carmes is a beautiful river with turquoise waters. It is not only an ideal place for swimming, but also for walking. A marked path leads the walkers to the cross of Castellas. From there, a beautiful panorama is offered and an orientation table allows you to locate precisely all the elements of the landscape. One hour away from the main cities of the French Riviera, the Vallon des Carmes is an essential refreshing break in the heart of summer. More information here.
Var : Cascade of Sillans, Sillans-la-Cascade
It is here, in Sillans, that the Bresque river begins. Here you are in a small paradise located not far from the famous Verdon gorges. The village owes its reputation to a 44-meter waterfall, which alone attracts many visitors. At the foot of the waterfall, swimming is out of the question, as the risk of falling rocks is too great, but swimming is possible all along the river. In warm weather, it would be a real shame to miss out as the site is so pretty. It offers a series of waterfalls, which, although smaller than the main waterfall, are ideal places to swim. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try this off-the-beaten-path option. Plan your next getaway here.