What to do this summer in the Alpilles when it’s hot? Our top spots for cooling off, starting from Saint-Rémy
In a nutshell: With the summer heatwave in Provence, Camping Pegomas is your ideal base. Located in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, it puts you less than 15 minutes away from the best air-conditioned spots in the region: the cool Carrières de Lumières (16°C), the shaded Lac de Peïroou, the underground wine cellars of Château Romanin and the ice creams in the town centre.
The Alpilles mountain range, with its dazzling limestone cliffs, silvery olive trees and cicadas… A picture-perfect setting, which can quickly become stifling in the middle of a July or August afternoon. When the temperature soars, the search for shade and coolness becomes the top priority of the holiday.
Tucked away just a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in a leafy, family-friendly setting, Camping Pegomas is the perfect place to explore the mountains whilst staying cool. From our pool area to the nearby spots where you can cool off, here’s our summer survival guide.
1. The Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence: a natural temperature of 16°C
It’s the region’s ultimate spot for beating the heat, and the good news is that it’s even closer from our campsite. It takes just 12 minutes’ drive via the D5 to reach the Val d’Enfer.
- The cool factor: These former underground limestone quarries have massive walls that maintain a constant temperature of around 16°C throughout the summer. 100% natural air conditioning.
- The experience: You’re immersed in art exhibitions projected from floor to ceiling, all set to music.
- A handy tip: The temperature change on leaving can be quite a shock. Pop a light jumper in your rucksack – you’ll thank us later. Online booking is compulsory via the Carrières de Lumières website.
2. Lake Peïroou: The hanging pine forest of Saint-Rémy
You don’t even need to leave the town. Tucked away in the hills above Saint-Rémy, less than 8 minutes from the campsite, Lake Peïroou is a hidden gem nestled amongst the rocks.
- The fresh air: Although swimming is strictly prohibited here to protect the flora and fauna, the site is surrounded by a dense pine forest. The air is fresher here thanks to the breeze that sweeps across the water.
- What is there to do there? It’s the perfect spot for a morning stroll in the cool of the morning (before 10 am) or for a picnic in the shade of the tall pine trees whilst listening to the cicadas.
3. The Cloister of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole: The coolness of the old stones
To soak up the local culture without breaking a sweat, the trick is to take shelter behind the thick walls of the Romanesque monuments.
- The experience: Located 5 minutes from the campsite, the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole (famous for having hosted Vincent van Gogh) boasts an absolutely magnificent 12th-century Romanesque cloister.
- The cool factor: The vaulted galleries made of rough-hewn stone and the inner garden offer a shaded, quiet and cool haven of peace, ideal for escaping the blazing midday sun.
4. Artisanal ice creams and hidden wine cellars: The gourmet road trip
Glacier Roma Parlour: A frosty treat in the city centre
One of the great advantages of Camping Pegomas is its proximity to the centre of Saint-Rémy: it’s just a 15-minute walk or a 4-minute cycle away. It’s the perfect opportunity to check out the local attractions.
- Once there: Head for the shaded terraces to treat yourself to an ice cream from one of the town centre’s artisan ice-cream makers, such as the famous Glacier Roma. On the menu: fruit-filled sorbets and flavours that evoke the scents of Provence (thyme, lavender, melon).
The Chai Cathédrale at Château Romanin
Located just 8 minutes from the campsite in the direction of Cavaillon, this exceptional vineyard is a masterpiece of architectural integration.
- The freshness factor: His biodynamic wine cellar is entirely buried beneath the rock of the Alpilles. It is known as the ‘cathedral cellar’. The freshness there is divine.
- On the programme: A tour of the underground cellars and a tasting of fine white and rosé wines from the Les Baux-de-Provence AOP. Don’t forget to book your slot on the Château Romanin website.
🚩 Quick Facts : Saint-Rémy-de-Provence en été
| Your objective | The perfect spot from Pegomas | Distance / Journey time |
| Swimming & relaxing | The campsite’s swimming pool, surrounded by trees. | On site |
| A sudden drop of 15°C | Les Carrières de Lumières (Les Baux). | 12 minutes by car |
| A walk in the shade | The historic site of Lake Peïroou. | 8 min en voiture / accessible à vélo |
| Serve chilled | The underground wine cellar at Château Romanin. | 8 minutes by car |
❓ FAQ: Your questions about staying cool this summer in the Alpilles
Where can you go for a swim in natural surroundings near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
The Alpilles mountain range is a protected, arid area where swimming in lakes (such as at Peïroou) is prohibited. To cool off, why not make the most of the swimming pool at Camping Pegomas? If you’re looking for a large water park, Wave Island in Monteux is about a 35-minute drive away.
Is the town centre of Saint-Rémy accessible without a car from the campsite?
Yes, that’s the real highlight of Camping Pegomas. A little path takes you to the shaded streets of the town centre in a 15-minute walk. It’s handy for popping out for an ice cream or visiting the Wednesday morning market without having to deal with the hassle of finding a parking space in the blazing sun.
How are the summer evenings organised at the campsite?
In keeping with the Pausado Group’s ethos of unwinding and conviviality, Camping Pegomas prioritises peace and relaxation after hot summer days. It’s the perfect setting for reading a book in the shade, enjoying the swimming pool at the end of the day and savouring the balmy Provençal nights.
🌿 Fancy experiencing a genuine summer in the heart of the Alpilles?
