Crafting Natural Shade: How Mulberries, Pines and Poplars Keep Our Pitches Cool
When summer heats up on the Costa Brava, natural shade becomes your best friend. At Camping Les Medes, abundant natural shade from mulberries, pines and poplars cools our flat, well‑drained pitches so you can relax in comfort just 800 m from the beach. In this guide, you’ll learn why natural shade matters, how these tree species work together to keep temperatures pleasant, and what to expect from our shaded pitches—plus practical tips to make the most of your stay.
Why natural shade matters on the Costa Brava
Natural shade is more than a pleasant perk—it’s a practical way to stay comfortable outdoors.
- It reduces direct sun exposure, creating cooler microclimates for tents, caravans and motorhomes.
- It moderates glare and UV, making outdoor time more enjoyable throughout the day.
- It supports restful afternoons and better sleep by buffering radiant heat on the ground.
- It complements other comfort amenities on site, from swimming pools to breezy terraces.
In a coastal Mediterranean setting, thoughtfully positioned trees provide steady protection during peak sun hours while still allowing healthy airflow—key for comfort without relying solely on artificial cooling.
The trio behind our cool pitches: mulberries, pines and poplars
Our pitches are well shaded in summer by a mix of mulberries, pines and poplars. Each species contributes a distinct canopy style that, together, keeps spaces cool and inviting.
| Tree species | Typical shade type | Seasonal notes | Extra benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mulberries | Dense, broadleaf shade | Deciduous; lush canopy in summer | Wide leaves help block high sun angles |
| Pines | Tall, evergreen, filtered shade | Year‑round structure | High canopy allows breeze to circulate |
| Poplars | Tall, dappled shade | Fast leafing in warm months | Fluttering leaves promote airflow and soft light |
How trees naturally cool pitches
- Canopy shading: Leaves and needles intercept solar radiation, reducing ground heating and lowering radiant temperature around seating, sleeping and cooking areas.
- Evapotranspiration: Trees release moisture through leaves, which absorbs heat from the surrounding air—a natural cooling effect.
- Airflow moderation: Mixed canopies create dappled shade and gentle wind channels, balancing protection with ventilation so spaces feel fresh, not stuffy.
- Ground cover protection: Shaded surfaces retain less heat, helping pitches stay comfortable into the evening.
Shade that supports real camping comfort
At Camping Les Medes, every pitch is level with good rain drainage and, in summer, is well shaded by mulberry, pine and poplar trees. Pitches measure 70–80 m², host up to 6 people, and include electricity (6 or 10 A) plus a water inlet and drainage (drainage is available throughout the campsite except on 10 even‑numbered pitches on Street K). Electrical hook‑ups use CEE three‑phase sockets, and water connections fit Gardena ½" or ¾" connectors.
You can enjoy natural shade alongside on‑site amenities that keep you cool and comfortable:
- Two outdoor pools (one for children and one for adults) operate roughly from 1 May to 15 September, weather permitting. The large outdoor pool is equipped with a crane to assist guests with reduced mobility.
- An indoor heated pool runs from 15 September to 15 June, kept at around 28 °C and measuring 11.5 × 4 m, with convenient locker‑room storage. Wearing a swimming hat is compulsory under regional regulations.
- The restaurant (open 01 April to 31 October) serves set menus or à‑la‑carte dishes, and prepares take‑away meals on request.
- The snack bar‑pizzeria is open all year, with a large terrace, indoor seating, a library corner and billiards—great shaded spaces for a cool drink.
- The on‑site shop is open year‑round, stocking freshly baked bread, daily newspapers and essentials for your stay.
Staying active? Natural shade pairs perfectly with outdoor pursuits:
- Bicycle hire is available on site (20 bicycles, including two electric models; first‑come, first‑served) and an indoor storage room keeps your bikes secure when not in use.
- The Aquàtica diving centre is located inside Camping Les Medes, offering diving trips, courses and snorkelling excursions in the Medes Islands and Montgrí Natural Park.
- Supervised children’s activities (from age 4) take place mainly in the Bona Festa room and the Vessana Mini‑club, with occasional evening activities for adults.
Useful on‑site services add peace of mind:
- Motorhome service area with waste disposal and an adjacent car‑wash point.
- Laundry (washing machines and tumble‑dryers) in the sanitary buildings.
- AED (defibrillator) available for emergencies.
- Safe‑deposit service for valuables.
- Wi‑Fi is available for an extra cost (one device at a time); Wi‑Fi is free for bungalow guests during high season.
All of this sits within the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, offering a naturally cool, environmentally rich setting just 2 km from L’Estartit and 800 m from the sea.
Quick answers: natural shade at Camping Les Medes
- What trees provide the shade? Mulberries, pines and poplars.
- Are the pitches flat and shaded? Yes—pitches are level with good rain drainage and are well shaded in summer by mulberry, pine and poplar trees.
- How big are the pitches and what’s included? 70–80 m²; up to 6 people; 6 or 10 A electricity; water inlet and drainage (drainage unavailable only on 10 even‑numbered pitches on Street K).
- What connectors do I need? CEE three‑phase electrical plug; Gardena ½" or ¾" (or similar) for the water inlet.
- Can I bring my pet? Pets are welcome on camping plots until 05/07 and after 22/08 (not allowed in bungalows).
- When are the pools open? Outdoor pools: 01/05–15/09 (weather permitting). Indoor heated pool: 15/09–15/06 (approx. 28 °C).
- May I use a barbecue? Yes—portable barbecues only, and only on non‑windy days.
Practical tips for choosing and enjoying a shaded pitch
Make the most of the natural shade with a few simple choices:
- Pick your power wisely: Choose 6 A or 10 A based on your setup. If you run multiple appliances at once, 10 A offers extra headroom.
- Bring the right fittings: Pack a CEE three‑phase adapter and a Gardena ½" or ¾" hose connector for a fast, hassle‑free hook‑up.
- Mind your clearance: When manoeuvring taller vehicles under tree canopies, move slowly and spot branches—shade is generous, but care protects both your roof and the trees.
- Orient for comfort: Park so your main seating area benefits from afternoon shade, and use awnings only as needed—trees already provide a cool microclimate.
- Protect the ground: Use breathable ground mats to keep the pitch surface in good condition under shade.
- Plan pool time: On hotter days, alternate between your shaded pitch and the outdoor pools (01/05–15/09); in cooler months, enjoy the indoor heated pool (15/09–15/06) at around 28 °C.
- Stay snack‑ready: Take advantage of the year‑round snack bar‑pizzeria and the shop’s fresh bread to keep meals easy and cool in the shade.
- Cycle in comfort: Borrow a bike on site (first‑come, first‑served) for the 800 m ride to the beach, then store it safely in the indoor bicycle room.
- Barbecue smart: Use portable barbecues only when winds are calm; natural shade creates a cosy outdoor kitchen space.
- Know pet windows: If travelling with pets, plan stays before 05/07 or after 22/08 on pitches.
Beyond the shade: facilities that complete your cool‑comfort stay
Natural shade sets the tone; on‑site features round it out:
- Modern sanitary blocks (well‑maintained; heated when needed), with washing machines and dryers and facilities for families.
- Accessible pool support via a crane at the large outdoor pool.
- Restaurant (01/04–31/10) for set menus, à‑la‑carte dishes and take‑away on request.
- Snack bar‑pizzeria all year with a shaded terrace, indoor seating, library corner and billiards.
- Shop open year‑round for essentials, newspapers and freshly baked bread.
- Aquàtica diving centre on site for guided diving, courses and snorkelling in the nearby protected waters.
- Motorhome services, car‑wash, safe‑deposit and AED for convenience and safety.
These comforts—paired with the cooling effect of mulberries, pines and poplars—create a relaxed, restorative base for days on the beach, in the pools, or exploring the Natural Park.
Conclusion: cool, calm and comfortably shaded
Natural shade from mulberries, pines and poplars keeps Camping Les Medes pitches cool, welcoming and ready for long, lazy summer days. With level, well‑drained plots, practical hook‑ups and year‑round facilities, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of the Costa Brava’s outdoors—comfortably.
Ready to enjoy a naturally cool stay? Reserve your shaded pitch now on our Pitches page: https://www.campinglesmedes.com/en/alojamientos/pitches/ or contact us at +34 972 75 18 05 or info@campinglesmedes.com. We’re open all year.