Canoe rental in Montpezat-sur-Verdon: explore the Baudinard Gorges

If you're looking for an authentic spot to discover the Verdon Gorges by canoe, look no further: Montpezat-sur-Verdon is the ideal place.

Nestled between the Var and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, this small Provençal village offers direct access to the Baudinard gorges , a jewel still preserved from mass tourism.

From the port of Montpezat , the true nautical starting point of the area, it is possible to rent a canoe, a kayak or a paddleboard and set off for an unforgettable trip along the water.

Canoe rental in Montpezat-sur-Verdon: explore the Baudinard Gorges

Montpezat, Provençal village and gateway to the Verdon

Perched above the lake, Montpezat-sur-Verdon seduces with its authentic charm:

• narrow streets lined with stone houses,

• breathtaking panorama of the lavender fields and the turquoise blue of the lake,

• peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds of Sainte-Croix.

At the foot of the village is the port of Montpezat , with its parking lots and nautical bases. This is where most visitors embark on a canoe or kayak trip, heading towards the Baudinard gorges.

Why choose Montpezat to rent a canoe or kayak?

Renting a canoe in Montpezat has several major advantages:

• ✅ Less crowded than in Sainte-Croix or Esparron → more calm and comfort.

• ✅ Exclusive access to the Baudinard Gorges , accessible only by water.

• ✅ Varied routes , from the 1.5 hour family walk to the long descent to Quinson.

• ✅ A complete offer : canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, electric boats.

• ✅ Preserved natural setting , ideal for relaxation and escape.

👉 In short, Montpezat is the perfect spot for those who want to combine wild nature, sporting activity and authenticity .

The Baudinard Gorges: a jewel accessible from Montpezat

Leaving the port, you quickly enter the Baudinard gorges , a spectacular site often overlooked by visitors.

• Dizzying limestone cliffs line the river.

• Several natural caves dug into the rock mark the route.

• Wild coves accessible only by canoe invite you to swim.

• The water is a dazzling turquoise , worthy of a postcard.

The Baudinard Gorges are less crowded than the famous Verdon Gorges upstream: a true paradise for a quiet family outing or a more sporty exploration.

Canoeing and kayaking routes from Montpezat

The nautical bases at the port of Montpezat offer several routes suitable for all levels.

🟢 Discovery Trail: Baudinard in 2 to 3 hours

• Distance: 5 to 7 km round trip

• Level: beginner, accessible from 7 years old

• Highlights: entrance to the gorges, cliffs, swimming in wild coves.

  
  

🔵 Family Route: Loop to Artignosc

• Distance: 3 to 4 km

• Duration: 1h30 to 2h

• Strong points: quiet area, ideal with children, easily accessible beaches.

  
  

🔴 Adventure Trail: Montpezat – Quinson

• Distance: 15 to 18 km round trip

• Duration: 5 to 6 hours with breaks

• Level: intermediate

• Highlights: total immersion in the lower Verdon gorges , spectacular landscapes.

  
  

Practical information: preparing your trip to Montpezat

🚗 Parking

The car park at the port of Montpezat is the most convenient, just a few meters from the nautical bases.

📝 Reservation

During high season (July-August), it is strongly recommended to book your canoe or kayak online.

👶 Children

Minimum age: 7 years old, swimming skills required. Short courses are suitable for families.

🛶 Equipment provided

• Canoe or kayak

• Paddles

• Life jackets

• Waterproof container for your belongings

  
  

🎒 What to plan for

Water shoes, cap, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, water bottle and snacks.

🌞 Best time

From May to September, with a preference for June and September (fewer people, ideal temperatures).

What to do around Montpezat?

A canoe trip is just the beginning of the adventure. Around the village, several activities are worth the detour:

• Discover Montpezat-sur-Verdon : its Provençal streets, its restaurants, its view of the lake.

• Visit Baudinard-sur-Verdon : a village perched above the gorges, rich in heritage.

• Explore Quinson : famous for its Prehistory Museum.

• Enjoy Artignosc-sur-Verdon : a peaceful little village ideal for extending your walk.

• Hiking : trails around the gorges, perfect for admiring the landscapes from above.

  
  

Montpezat, an environmentally friendly water sports spot

In Montpezat, navigation is carried out with respect for the natural environment.

• Thermal engines are prohibited .

• Only non-polluting boats (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, pedal boat, electric boat) are authorized.

• Rental companies raise awareness among visitors about preserving the gorges.

👉 It is therefore a 100% natural and sustainable activity, ideal for eco-responsible holidays.

Conclusion: Montpezat, the best kept secret of the Verdon

Choosing Montpezat-sur-Verdon for your canoe trip means discovering a pristine, family-friendly, and spectacular spot. Direct access to the Baudinard Gorges makes it a unique location, far from the crowds but at the heart of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Verdon.

❓ FAQ – Canoe and kayak rental in Montpezat-sur-Verdon

💰 Q1: How much does it cost to rent a canoe in Montpezat?

Renting a canoe in Montpezat-sur-Verdon costs on average between €15 and €20 per person for 2 hours , and €25 to €35 for a half-day . Prices vary depending on the route chosen (Baudinard, Artignosc or Quinson).

🅿️ Q2: Where can I park to rent a canoe in Montpezat?

Parking is mainly available at the Montpezat port car park , located right next to the water sports centres. A second car park in the village of Montpezat also provides easy access to the boat launch.

🛶 Q3: What routes can you do by canoe from Montpezat?

From Montpezat, you can:

• Explore the Baudinard Gorges (2 to 3 hours of navigation),

• Join Artignosc-sur-Verdon for a family outing,

• Go down to Quinson for a full day kayaking or paddleboarding.

  
  

🏄 Q4: Is it possible to rent a paddleboard in Montpezat?

Yes, in addition to canoeing and kayaking, the Montpezat port bases also offer stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals . This is an ideal option for exploring the coves of the Baudinard Gorges in complete freedom.

👶 Q5: Can children go canoeing in Montpezat?

Yes, rentals are available from the age of 7 , provided the child knows how to swim. The short routes to Artignosc or Baudinard are perfectly suited to families.

⏱️ Q6: How long does a canoe trip from Montpezat take?

The duration depends on the chosen route:

• 2 to 3 hours to explore the Baudinard gorges,

• 1h30 to 2h for a family loop to Artignosc,

• 5 to 6 hours for a complete descent from Montpezat to Quinson.

  
  

📅 Q7: Do you need to book your canoe in Montpezat in advance?

Yes, especially in July and August . Water sports centers are often fully booked during peak season. Booking online is the easiest way to guarantee your trip.

🎒 Q8: What equipment is provided with the canoe rental in Montpezat?

Each rental includes:

• canoeing or kayaking,

• the paddles,

• a mandatory life jacket ,

• a waterproof container to protect your belongings.

  
  

🏊 Q9: Can you swim in the Baudinard Gorges in a canoe?

Yes, several wild coves accessible only by water allow you to swim in the turquoise waters of the Verdon . Swimming breaks are part of the experience.

🌞 Q10: What are the best times for canoeing in Montpezat?

The ideal season runs from May to September . June and September are particularly pleasant: fewer people, mild weather, and the water at a good temperature.

⚡ Q11: Can you rent an electric boat in Montpezat?

Yes, in addition to canoes and kayaks, the port's water sports centres offer electric boat hire , a perfect alternative for exploring the gorges effortlessly.