Best lakes around Bauduen are centered around the Lac de Sainte-Croix, an expansive artificial freshwater lake covering 2,200 hectares. This lake, created in 1973 by the Sainte-Croix dam and fed by the Verdon River, is known for its clear turquoise waters. Bauduen provides direct access to the lake, offering a variety of water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The area also serves as a gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, providing scenic views and natural landscapes.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Here is the route for the ascent of the Col d'Ayen starting from Saint-Clair, via the legendary road through the Verdon Gorges!
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From the bridge, you have a breathtaking view of both the entrance to the gorge and the lake. 🤩🤩
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The turquoise lake is a real alternative to the sea. The absolute highlight is the beginning of the Verdon Gorge, which you can explore by canoe, pedal boat, or electric boat for about 1.5 km.
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If mailboxes didn't exist yet, they would be invented here.
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The route is breathtakingly beautiful and the climb is pleasant to ride. At the beginning of October, when many campsites are already closed, there is not much traffic.
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The most beautiful viewpoint of the park.
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It looks like the water has cut the mountains in two.
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This bridge gives you the opportunity to take incredible photos.
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For breathtaking views, visit the Coastal viewpoint, which offers magnificent panoramas of the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, and the surrounding mountains. Another excellent spot is the Belvedere of the Saint-Pierre chapel, providing a splendid overview of Aiguines and the lake.
The primary natural feature is the expansive Lac de Sainte-Croix, an artificial freshwater lake known for its striking turquoise, clear waters. It's fed by the Verdon River and is often described as feeling like a sea due to its vastness. The lake also serves as a gateway to the dramatic Gorges du Verdon, offering stunning canyon views.
Lac de Sainte-Croix is a hub for water sports. You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and electric boat trips. The absence of combustion engine boats helps maintain the water's purity and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for swimming.
Yes, Lac de Sainte-Croix is ideal for swimming. Its crystal-clear waters and pleasant summer temperatures make it very inviting. Bauduen itself has a large pebble beach, and many bays feature clear, shallow waters, which are safe for all ages.
Absolutely. The region offers various hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, you can find trails like the 'Bauduen – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop' which is an easy option, or more difficult ones like the 'Bauduen – Lake Sainte-Croix loop'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Bauduen guide.
Yes, the area around Bauduen is excellent for cycling. There are dedicated guides for different cycling styles. For off-road adventures, check out the Gravel biking around Bauduen guide, or for paved routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Bauduen guide.
Yes, Bauduen and Lac de Sainte-Croix are highly recommended for families. The lake offers shallow entry points, safe swimming areas, and calm waters, making it enjoyable for children. Many water activities are also suitable for all ages, and highlights like Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix are noted as family-friendly.
Bauduen, being directly on Lac de Sainte-Croix, offers various parking options within the village and near its beaches. Specific parking areas are usually well-indicated, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot.
The mild climate means the lakes are charming year-round, with changing colors. However, for water activities and swimming, the summer months (June to September) offer the most pleasant temperatures. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds and cooler weather for hiking, spring and autumn are ideal.
While Bauduen's main beach can be popular, the vastness of Lac de Sainte-Croix means you can often find quieter spots. Exploring the wilder shores or taking an electric boat to hidden coves can lead you to more secluded areas. The tranquil atmosphere of Bauduen itself also contributes to a more peaceful experience compared to larger tourist hubs.
The Gorges du Verdon, often called the 'Grand Canyon of Europe,' is a major natural attraction connected to Lac de Sainte-Croix. The lake was formed by the construction of a dam on the Verdon River, which carved the gorge. You can enjoy stunning views of the gorge from various points, such as the Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix highlight, or even access the water's edge within the gorge itself.
Bauduen itself is a picturesque village with cobbled streets and typical Provençal stone houses, retaining remnants of its medieval past, including a 12th-century Romanesque church. For a site with both historical and scenic value, the Belvedere of the Saint-Pierre chapel offers a small Romanesque chapel alongside a magnificent panorama of the lake.


Still not found your perfect lake around Bauduen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.