Bauduen: a Provençal village between history and leisure

Would you like to visit a Provençal village nestled beside turquoise waters? Then make Bauduen your next destination to discover during your holiday in the south of France. This village in the Var, set within the Verdon Regional Natural Park, combines authenticity, water-based activities and invigorating hikes. Located near Aups and surrounded by the Lake of Sainte-Croix, Bauduen is just 16.8 km from our camping in the Verdon, around a 22-minute drive.

• Stroll through the medieval streets of this Provençal village and admire stone houses, ramparts and the church.
• Enjoy the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix and try kayaking, paddleboarding or sailing.
• Go hiking on the Véris Trail or explore the mountain bike routes around the village.
• Spend magical evenings at the Bauduen astronomical observatory or be amazed by the Playmobil museum.
• Soak up the local atmosphere at the Sunday market in Bauduen and sample regional produce.

Let yourself be guided through the cobblestone streets of Bauduen:

• Discover stone houses with colourful shutters and Renaissance-style doors.
• Admire the remains of the ramparts and the 15th-century tower, reminders of the village’s fortified past.
• See the 1823 sundial, bearing the inscription of Louis VI’s motto “Nec pluribus impar”.
• Do not miss the Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, whose bells are listed as Historic Monuments.

Practical tip: visit early in the morning or late in the day during summer. You will avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This is the best time to capture the soul of this village in the Var.

Visiting Bauduen without enjoying Lake Sainte-Croix would be unthinkable.
Did you know that motorised boating is restricted here? This ensures calm waters, ideal for gentle water sports in the Var, just 21 km from our Camping L’Oasis du Verdon.

• Swim in crystal-clear water and relax on the pebble beach.
• Enjoy a wide range of water activities: kayaking, paddleboarding, pedal boats or sailing.
• Rent a boat from the Bauduen watersports centre and explore the hidden coves of the Verdon.

Tip: head out early in the morning to reach the quietest coves before the crowds arrive. Remember to bring water shoes.

Do not miss the Bauduen astronomical observatory during your stay near the Gorges du Verdon. Located 14 km from our camping in Aups, it allows you to observe constellations, planets and even the surface of the Sun, depending on the programme.

A passionate guide makes astronomy accessible for both children and adults. Visitors often describe these observation evenings, sometimes accompanied by music, as magical moments beneath the clear skies of the Var.

Tip: book in advance online and bring a jacket, even in summer. Temperatures can drop quickly at night in Provence.

Looking for an original experience that the whole family will enjoy? Discover L’Art en Jouet in Bauduen, just 16 km from our camping.

Thousands of Playmobil figures bring miniature scenes to life across three large rooms with impressive sets. A must-see during your holiday in Provence. Visitors praise the originality of this museum. Do not miss this great rainy-day activity in the Verdon.

Tip: always check opening times before your visit, as the exhibition is mainly open during the high season and not every day.

Fancy some hiking in the Verdon? Several routes pass through Bauduen.

For the Véris Trail, start from the car park at the entrance to Bauduen. The route alternates between forests, viewpoints and panoramic views over the Var’s lake landscapes.

Climb via Rue Grande, Montée de Saint-Sauveur and Chemin du Défends up to point 643. Continue along a stony path to an intersection leading to point 652, where you can admire stunning views over Lake Sainte-Croix. On the return journey, cross the Véris path and follow the Sainte-Anne/Chelnei trail back to Bauduen.

Practical information: Duration: 2 hrs 45 mins • Distance: 7.46 km • Difficulty: Easy • Elevation gain: +209 m.

The Bauduen tourist information office is the starting point for excellent mountain bike trails. Try the Bounas route (10.5 km), Les Gorgues (15 km) or Font Castellan (8 km). At the entrance to the village, you will find a bike shelter (6 spaces), a pump and a repair kit.

Tips: set off early to avoid the Provençal heat. Bring plenty of water and check trail conditions. Recent rain can make paths muddy or slippery. Cycle safely around Lake Sainte-Croix.

Every Sunday morning, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., head to the esplanade by Lake Bauduen to discover the local market. It is a key moment in the life of this village in the Var. You will find Provençal products such as honey, olives and lavender, as well as a strong presence of local crafts.

The atmosphere is friendly, with views over the crystal-clear lake. It is the perfect opportunity to buy souvenirs, taste regional specialities or simply enjoy a coffee by the water.

Tip: arrive fairly early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best selection. Bring a reusable bag for your purchases.

The streets of Bauduen, its lake and its family-friendly attractions promise a complete change of scenery. To make the most of the region, stay nearby. Our Camping L’Oasis du Verdon, located in Aups in the Haut-Var, is a 3-star campsite with a heated swimming pool. It is the ideal place to relax after days full of discovery. Book your stay near Bauduen today.

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