Bauduen: A Village in Provence— Where History Meets Leisure!

Would you like to visit a Provençal village nestled along the shores of turquoise waters? Then be sure to add Bauduen to your list of places to discover during your next vacation in the South of France! This town in the Var department, nestled in the Verdon Regional Nature Park, combines authenticity, water sports, and invigorating hikes. This village, near Aups and surrounded by Lake Sainte-Croix, is located 16.8 km from our campground in the Verdon—just a 22-minute drive away!

Things to Do and Places to Visit in Bauduen at a Glance

Stroll through the medieval streets of this Provençal village and admire the stone houses, ramparts, and church.
Enjoy the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix and go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or sailing.
Go hiking on the Sentier de Véris or explore the mountain bike trails around the village.
Share magical evenings at the Bauduen Astronomical Observatory or marvel at the Playmobil Museum.
Soak up the local atmosphere at the Sunday market in Bauduen and savor the local specialties.

Immerse yourself in the medieval heart of De Bauduen

Let us guide you through the cobblestone streets of Bauduen:

Discover stone houses with colorful shutters and Renaissance-style doors!
Take in the remains of the ramparts and the 15th-century tower. They serve as a reminder of the village’s fortified past.
Admire the sundial from 1823, which bears the inscription of Louis VI’s motto, “Nec pluribus Impar.”
Don’t miss the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. Its bells are designated as Historic Monuments.

Helpful tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the day during the summer. You’ll avoid the heat and enjoy the peace and quiet of the area! This is the best time to capture the spirit of this village in the Var region from your campground near Bauduen.

Lake Sainte-Croix: Beach and Water Activities

Visiting Bauduen without enjoying Lake Sainte-Croix would be a sin!
Did you know that motorboats are restricted there? This ensures calm waters, perfect for gentle water sports in the Var, 21 km from our L’Oasis du Verdon campground.

Take a dip in its crystal-clear water and relax on the pebble beach.
Enjoy a wide range of water activities: kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats, or sailing!
Rent a boat at the Bauduen Water Sports Center and set out to explore the wild coves of the Verdon.

Tip: Leave early in the morning to reach the most

The Astronomical Observatory: An Evening Under the Stars

Don’t miss the Bauduen Astronomy Observatory during your stay near the Gorges du Verdon! Just 14 km from our campsite in Aups, you can observe the constellations, the planets or even the surface of the Sun, depending on the events organised by the local council! A passionate guide makes astronomy accessible to young and old alike! Visitors describe the observation evenings – sometimes accompanied by music – as magical moments under the clear skies of the Var.

Tip: Book in advance via the website and take a jacket with you, even on summer nights. Temperatures can sometimes drop quickly in Provence!

Art in Toys: A Poetic Playmobil World

Are you looking for a unique experience that the whole family will enjoy? Check out L’Art en Jouet in Bauduen, just 16 km from our campground!

Thousands of Playmobil figures bring miniature scenes to life in three large rooms with impressive sets—a must-see during your vacation in Provence. Visitors praise the museum’s originality.

Don’t miss this activity when it rains in the Verdon.

Tip: Always check the opening hours before your visit, as the exhibition is mainly open during the high season (and not every day).

Hike on the Véris Trail with a view of the lake

Want to go hiking in the Verdon? Several trails pass through the town of Bauduen! To hike the Sentier de Véris, start at the parking lot at the entrance to Bauduen. You’ll pass through forests, lookouts, and enjoy panoramic views of the lakes of the Var. Start by climbing up Rue Grande, then the Montée de Saint-Sauveur, and finally the Chemin du Défends, until you reach elevation 643.

Continue along a rocky path until you reach an intersection, where you’ll take the trail leading to elevation 652. From there, enjoy the view of Lake Sainte-Croix. On the way back, cross Chemin de Véris, then walk along the Sainte-Anne/Chelnei Trail before returning to the village of Bauduen.

Practical Information: Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes • Distance: 7.46 km • Difficulty: Easy • Elevation gain: +209 m.

Bicycle and Mountain Bike Trails Around Bauduen

The Bauduen Tourist Information Office puts you right at the crossroads of some superb mountain bike trails! Try the Bounas (10.5 km) and Les Gorgues (15 km) trails! There’s also the Font Castellan loop (8 km), which is very interesting. For your convenience, you’ll find a bike shelter (6 spaces), a pump, and a repair kit at the village entrance.

Tips: Set out early to avoid the heat of Provence! Bring water and check the trail conditions. Recent rain may make the trails muddy or slippery! Enjoy a safe ride around Lake Sainte-Croix!

Strolling through the Sunday Provençal market

Every Sunday morning, between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., head to the esplanade along Lake Bauduen to explore the local market! It’s a must-see part of life in this village in the Var! You’ll find Provençal products there: honey, olives, lavender… And be sure to check out the wide selection of local crafts. The atmosphere is friendly, with a view of the crystal-clear lake. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy souvenirs and sample regional specialties! You can also just enjoy a coffee by the water!

Tip: Arrive relatively early. That way, you’ll avoid the crowds and have the best selection! Bring a reusable bag for your purchases.

The narrow streets of Bauduen, its lake, and its family-friendly attractions promise a complete change of scenery. To make the most of the region, stay near this village! Our campground, L’Oasis du Verdon, located in Aups in the Haut-Var, is a 4-star facility with a heated pool. It’s the perfect place to recharge after a day of exploring. Book your stay near Bauduen today!

Hydrospeed in the Verdon 3 Days in the Verdon