Updated : 2 February 2026 at 10:03
Less well known than the Gorges du verdon, the Gorges de Baudinard are just as worthy of a visit! Whether on foot or by canoe, you’ll be dazzled by their wild beauty and lush natural surroundings. Located between Quinson lake and the Sainte-Croix dam, this narrow canyon is framed by impressive cliffs plunging straight into turquoise waters.
The Gorges de Baudinard are made up of two small lakes: Artignosc lake and Montpezat lake. This protected natural site is also full of hidden treasures, including prehistoric caves and several stunning waterfalls. In short, you’ll quickly fall under the spell of this idyllic setting, an excellent alternative to the very busy Galetas bridge. Exploring the Gorges de Baudinard could even be one of our 5 original activities to discover the Verdon differently !
The Gorges de Baudinard can be explored either on foot from the heights above or on the water by canoe or kayak (rentals available at the Aquattitude watersport center).
Hiking above the Gorges de Baudinard
What could be better than raising up to enjoy breathtaking views over the gorges ? Numerous trails start from nearby villages and run alongside the canyon. Between the steep cliffs, the winding turquoise river and the charming little lakes, the panoramas are simply exceptional. You can even enjoy a refreshing swim break during your hike.
Below is a family-friendly loop trail that follows the Gorges de Baudinard and passes Montpezat lake halfway through the walk :
Practical information :
- Duration : 2 hours
- Distance : 7km with 280m of elevation gain
- Bring a hat, water and sunscreen
- Start from the Charbonnières car park along the D71 road in Baudinard-sur-Verdon
- Access the route map
You’ll love :
- The balcony viewpoint above the Sainte-Croix dam
- The vegetation-covered cliffs and the canyon stretching as far as the eye can see
- Spotting the many caves in the rock faces, including the famous Church Cave
- A refreshing break at Montpezat lake
Slipping through the Gorges de Baudinard by canoe or kayak
Our favourite activity ! Canoeing or kayaking allows you to fully immerse yourself in this incredible natural environment. Up close to the elements, you’ll truly appreciate the peaceful, untouched atmosphere. Along the route, you’ll be surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, including mosses and ferns near the waterfalls. Keen observers may even spot vultures soaring overhead !
There are several access points to launch your canoe, including Artignosc and Montpezat lakes. We chose the latter :
Practical information :
- Duration : 3-4 hours
- Distance : approx. 8km
- Life jackets are mandatory
- Bring a hat, water and sunscreen
- Paddleboards are not allowed, even rigid ones
- Canoe and kayak rentals available at Aquattitude watersports centre in Montpezat
- Parking, picnic tables, snack bar and refreshments available
You’ll love :
- Feeling completely alone in the canyon early in the morning
- The landscape reflected like a mirror on the turquoise-green water
- The stunning waterfalls flowing with crystal-clear water
- Getting close to the famous Church Cave
- Observing the rich wildlife and plant life all around you
You can also explore the gorges by electric boat or pedal boat. ⚠️ Motorised boats are not allowed.
The most beautiful viewpoint
📸 The highlight of the Gorges de Baudinard undoubtedly comes at the end, with the magnificent waterfalls located just before the Sainte-Croix dam.
📍 Get there here.
Discovering the caves
The Gorges de Baudinard are an exceptional and fascinating historical site. Inhabited since prehistoric times, our ancestors settled here and archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous traces of their presence.
The most famous cave is the Church Cave (Grotte de l’Église), which even has a replica at the Gorges du Verdon Prehistory Museum in Quinson. Its galleries extend over several levels, and it was also used as a church during the French Revolution, hence its name. Artefacts found during excavations in other caves (the Grand Abri de la Plage, the Museum Cave, C and G caves) are also displayed at the museum.
– Good to know –
The caves are home to sensitive species and are therefore not open to the public. However, you can take a guided tour of the Baume Bonne cave in Quinson, organised by the Prehistory Museum.
What to do around the Gorges de Baudinard?
If you’ve read our article on what to do in 3 days in the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll already have a good idea! Here’s a quick overview :
Lavender fields on the Valensole plateau 
Explore Esparron lake by paddle 
Visit the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Where to stay when visiting the Verdon Gorge?
If you’re spending holidays in the Verdon and want to enjoy both Sainte-Croix lake and the gorges, the ideal option is to stay in one of these three charming villages :
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Our favourite : La Fabrique guesthouse, located at the foot of the village. A former ceramics factory tastefully renovated. Our experience was perfect, welcoming yet discreet hosts.
Greoux-les-Bains
Our favourite : the Villa Castellane. Spacious rooms, delicious cocktails at the bar, and a fantastic swimming pool. A chic, high-quality hotel. If you’re looking to treat yourself, go for it!
La Palud-sur-Verdon
We haven’t yet had the chance to stay in La Palud-sur-Verdon, but the village is an excellent base for activities in the region (Route des Crêtes, hiking, Sainte-Croix lake, and more).
– Our opinion –
The Gorges de Baudinard are perfect for recharging your batteries. The best way to discover them is undoubtedly by canoe, whether with family or friends. They’re wilder than the Gorges du Verdon, yet just as breathtaking. We never tire of admiring the grand landscapes made up of towering cliffs sheltering rich wildlife and plant life. The turquoise water is dreamlike, and the waterfalls are truly the highlight of the experience (best seen outside periods of drought).
And you, have you visited the Gorges de Baudinard ? What’s your favourite spot in the Verdon ?
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Your maps are very successful and clear ! thank you for this beautiful post on one of the treasures in south of France !
Thank you ♥️ I love these maps too 😂