🛶 Canoe-kayak rental in Bauduen on the Verdon: discover the Sainte-Croix lake in a different way
- Oct 1
- 6 min read
Located on the southern shore of Lake Sainte-Croix, the village of Bauduen is one of the most authentic gems of the Verdon. Its stone houses cling to the hillside and descend to the turquoise shores of the lake, creating a breathtaking setting.
If you are looking for a place that combines a charming Provençal village, accessible beaches and varied water activities , Bauduen is an excellent choice.
Renting a canoe, kayak or paddleboard here allows you to enjoy the lake in a more intimate atmosphere than Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, while still benefiting from all the amenities on site.
📑 Summary
🚗 Access & location
🌊 Why choose Bauduen to rent a kayak?
🛶 Water sports & possible routes
💶 Rates & rental comparison table
📅 Best time to paddle
📏 Regulations & safety
🏞️ Other activities to do in Bauduen
📍 Comparison: Bauduen vs Esparron vs Sainte-Croix
🚗 Parking & practical advice🌟 Conclusion
🛶 Canoe-kayak rental in Bauduen on the Verdon: discover the Sainte-Croix lake in a different way
🚗 Access & location
Bauduen is located in the Var (83) , on the edge of Lake Sainte-Croix:
🚘 From Marseille : 2 hours drive.
🚘 From Aix-en-Provence : 1h30.
🚘 From Draguignan : 1 hour.
Access is easy from the A51 (Vinon-sur-Verdon or Gréoux-les-Bains exit), then via Aups and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Upon arrival, you will discover an amphitheater-shaped village facing the lake, with beaches directly accessible from the center.
🌊 Why choose Bauduen to rent a kayak?
Compared to other villages around the lake, Bauduen has some serious advantages :
✅ A picturesque and authentic village , with its medieval streets and artisans.
✅ Beaches at the foot of the village , perfect for alternating between swimming and sailing.
✅ A quieter and more family-friendly setting than Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon.
✅ Quick access to nautical bases without having to take the car.
👉 Bauduen is therefore ideal if you want to enjoy the Sainte-Croix lake while remaining in a Provençal and friendly atmosphere.
🛶 Water sports & possible routes
🛶 Canoe-kayak rental in Bauduen on the Verdon: discover the Sainte-Croix lake in a different way
In Bauduen, several rental companies located on the lake offer boats suitable for all profiles:
Canoeing & kayaking : perfect for exploring wild shores, skirting cliffs and taking a swim break.
Paddleboarding : a very popular activity, particularly pleasant early in the morning when the lake is still calm.
Pedal boat : friendly and ideal for families.
Electric boats without a license : for a peaceful ride accessible to all.
⚠️ Unlike Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon or Moustiers, you can't directly access the Verdon Gorges from Bauduen. But that's also what makes it so charming: here, the lake is more open, more peaceful, and better suited to family swimming.
💶 Rates & rental comparison table (2025)
Here is an average of the prices observed in Bauduen:
Activity | 1 hour | Half day | Daytime |
Canoeing / Kayaking | 10–15 € / pers. | 20–30 € / pers. | 40–50 € / pers. |
Paddle | 15–20 € | 25–30 € | – |
Pedalo | 15–25 € | – | – |
Electric boat | 35–60 € | 90–120 € | 150–200 € |
👉 Rentals always include: paddles, life jackets, and waterproof containers. Some rental companies add a course map, child seats, or waterproof bags.
📅 Best time to paddle
May, June and September : the ideal period → fewer people, pleasant temperatures, water already warm.
July–August : busy → it’s best to book your canoe or paddleboard in advance.
In the morning (before 11 a.m.) : calmer lake, less wind, magical atmosphere.
In the evening : golden light and magnificent sunsets.
In summer, the water temperature of Lake Sainte-Croix ranges between 20 and 25°C , perfect for swimming after a kayak trip.
📏 Regulations & safety
👶 Minimum age: 7 years (know how to swim).
🦺 Life jacket mandatory and provided.
🐕 Dogs allowed depending on rental companies and beaches.
🚫 Fires and barbecues are prohibited on the banks.
🚁 Drones subject to regulation.
👉 Tip: Remember to bring closed shoes , sunscreen, a cap and plenty of water.
🏞️ Other activities to do in Bauduen
Apart from kayaking and water sports, Bauduen has some great surprises in store:
🏘️ Visit the village : medieval streets, small craft shops, panorama of the lake.
🎨 Toy Museum : original, perfect for children.
🥾 Hiking : trails around the lake and surrounding hills.
🎣 Fishing : accessible with a card, very popular in summer.
🍷 Restaurants & terraces : Provençal cuisine and local wines with a view of the lake.
📍 Comparison: Bauduen vs Esparron vs Sainte-Croix
Bauduen : perfect compromise → authentic village + beaches at the foot of the center, ideal for families.
Esparron : wilder, direct access to the lower gorges, natural atmosphere.
Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon : very touristy, large beaches, direct access to the gorges but more crowds.
👉 If you are looking for authenticity and relaxation , choose Bauduen. If you prefer adventure in the gorges , Esparron or Sainte-Croix will be more suitable.
🚗 Parking & practical advice
Paid parking : at the foot of the village, fills up very quickly in summer.
Free zones : higher up, 5–10 minutes walk.
Reserved parking : for customers of the nautical centers.
⚠️ In July-August, arrive before 10 a.m. to easily find a spot and enjoy the lake in peace.
🌟 Conclusion
Choosing Bauduen for canoe-kayak rental on Lake Sainte-Croix means living a unique experience: paddling in a turquoise setting, swimming on peaceful beaches and enjoying the charm of a real Provençal village.
It's an ideal destination for a family holiday, a romantic getaway or a relaxing break during a road trip in the Verdon. Here, you'll find the perfect balance between nature, culture and water activities .
❓ FAQ – Canoe Kayak Rental & Water Activities in Bauduen
1. Where to rent a canoe or kayak in Bauduen on Lake Sainte-Croix?
Several water sports centers are located directly on the lake, in and around the village of Bauduen. They offer rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and electric boats. Most are located in the immediate vicinity of the beaches, accessible on foot from the village center.
2. What are the kayak rental prices in Bauduen in 2025?
On average, prices range from €10 to €15 per person for 1 hour , €20 to €30 for a half-day and €40 to €50 for a full day . Prices generally include a life jacket, paddle and a waterproof container.
3. Can you paddleboard from Bauduen?
Yes, paddleboard rentals are available in Bauduen from the lake's water sports centers. It's a popular activity, especially early in the morning or late in the day, when the waters of Lake Sainte-Croix are calm and reflect the colors of the sky.
4. Is it possible to reach the Gorges du Verdon by kayak from Bauduen?
No, kayaking from Bauduen is limited to Lake Sainte-Croix. To enter the Verdon Gorges by canoe, you must rent a boat from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie or Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. However, Bauduen remains perfect for a quiet family outing and swimming.
5. Is pedal boat rental in Bauduen suitable for families with children?
Yes! Pedal boats are very popular with families. They allow you to enjoy the lake safely, with areas for easy swimming. Prices vary between €15 and €25 per hour depending on the size of the boat.
6. What water sports can you practice in Bauduen?
In addition to canoeing and paddleboarding , you can go pedal boating, go electric boating without a license, and of course go swimming. These activities are accessible to everyone, from simple family leisure activities to more sporty outings.
7. Can you rent an electric boat without a license in Bauduen?
Yes, the Bauduen water sports center offers electric boats without a license to explore Lake Sainte-Croix with family or friends. It's a great option for accessing secluded coves or spending a full day on the water.
8. When is the best time to kayak in Bauduen?
The best time to rent a kayak in Bauduen is from May to September . May, June, and September offer the best conditions: fewer people, pleasant temperatures, and water that's already suitable for swimming. In summer, it's recommended to book in advance.
9. What equipment is included in the kayak rental in Bauduen?
The rental always includes a life jacket , paddle, and a waterproof container to protect your belongings. Some rental companies also provide a lake map, child seats, or waterproof bags as an option.
10. Where can I park to access water activities in Bauduen?
The village has paid parking near the beaches, which are often full during high season, and free parking a little further away (5 to 10 minutes on foot). Guests of the water sports centers sometimes have reserved spaces. In summer, it is recommended to arrive before 10 a.m.
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