Bauduen Spring

## Overview Bauduen Spring is a public drinking spring located along the D49 road in the charming Provençal village of Bauduen, in the Var department of southeastern France (83630). Nestled on the southern shores of Lac de Sainte-Croix — one of the most stunning man-made lakes in Provence — Bauduen sits at the gateway to the famous Gorges du Verdon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe." The village itself is a picturesque medieval settlement of stone houses, narrow lanes, and a historic clock tower, and the spring has historically served as a communal water source for locals and visitors alike. Public drinking springs (fontaines) are a longstanding tradition in Provençal villages, where natural water sources have been channeled into communal fountains for centuries. Bauduen's spring continues this tradition, offering passersby a place to fill a bottle or refresh during a warm southern French afternoon. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by the local community, though as with any natural spring, conditions can change over time. ## Directions 1. From the town of Aups, head northwest on the D9 toward Lac de Sainte-Croix. 2. At the junction, follow signs for Bauduen and merge onto the **D49**. 3. Continue along the D49 as it winds down toward the lake and into the village of Bauduen. 4. The spring is located along the D49 within the village — look for a traditional stone fountain or spout near the roadside as you enter or pass through the village center. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 43.7325, 6.1780. Parking can be limited in the village during peak summer months, so arriving early is advisable. ## What to Expect Bauduen is a small but popular destination, especially in summer when visitors flock to Lac de Sainte-Croix for swimming, kayaking, and pedal-boating. The spring is publicly accessible along the D49 road within the village. Expect a traditional Provençal-style fountain or spout — these are typically stone-built and flow continuously. The surrounding area is strikingly beautiful: the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix are just a short walk from the village, and the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Gorges du Verdon rise to the north. The village offers a handful of cafés, restaurants, and small shops, making it easy to combine a visit to the spring with a leisurely exploration of Bauduen. The spring water has been historically used for drinking by locals, but visitors should be aware that water quality can vary with season and weather conditions. If you plan to drink from the spring, look for any posted signage indicating whether the water has been tested or is designated as "eau potable" (potable water) by local authorities. Summer is the busiest season; spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winters are quiet, and some village amenities may be closed, though the spring itself is typically accessible year-round.