Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence, France
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is widely regarded as one of the prettiest villages in the south of France, a true gem nestled within the stunning Regional Natural Park of the Verdon Canyon. It is an absolutely compulsory destination for any tourist exploring the surrounding area. For centuries, the town has been a renowned commercial center for ceramics, particularly its exquisite faience pottery. To this day, its narrow, charming streets are lined with a multitude of shops and ateliers selling this beautiful local pottery, showcasing a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The village's unique location, tucked between two cliffs, makes it an unforgettable sight, especially with the golden star suspended on a chain across the ravine above the town.
The village's legacy as a center of craftsmanship dates back to the 17th century when a local monk brought back the secret of making fine faience from Italy. The unique artistry and quality of Moustiers pottery quickly earned it a reputation across Europe. As you walk through the village, you can see artisans at work, continuing this rich tradition. The town's architecture, with its stone houses and terracotta roofs, perfectly blends with the dramatic natural landscape of the cliffs and the flowing torrent. Every corner reveals a new picturesque view, making it a paradise for photographers and artists alike. The serene atmosphere, combined with the vibrant artistic life, makes Moustiers-Sainte-Marie a truly special place to visit.
Parking in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
A fairly steep road leads up to a large parking lot (1; GPS: 43.843585, 6.221021). However, be aware that this lot can fill up completely during the high season, so arriving early is always a good idea. If you find the main lot full, you can try another parking area (2; GPS: 43.846349, 6.223171) located near the Chapel of Notre Dame de Beauvoir, which offers a convenient alternative. Both parking spots provide easy access to the village, though you will have a short walk. Parking in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie can be a challenge during peak summer months, so planning your visit for a weekday or outside of July and August can make a significant difference to your experience. The village's popularity means that parking is a premium, but the effort is well worth it to see this stunning place.
The chapel of Notre Dame de Beauvoir
From the parking lot, a rewarding pilgrimage awaits you as you make your way to the chapel of Notre Dame de Beauvoir (A; GPS: 43.848107, 6.224084). This beautiful chapel is perched on a rocky outcrop at an altitude of 830 meters, seemingly hanging over the town. The ascent is via a stone staircase with 260 steps, a journey that is both physically demanding and spiritually uplifting. As you climb, you are treated to increasingly spectacular views of the village below and the surrounding landscape. The terrace at the top offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the lush olive groves and the serene valley below. It is the perfect spot to capture stunning photos and take a moment to appreciate the sheer beauty of the location.
The old town
The old town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a captivating maze of narrow, cobblestone streets and charming squares. A key landmark to visit is the church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption (B; GPS: 43.847148, 6.222221), which boasts a beautiful bell tower, considered one of the finest in all of Provence. This magnificent tower was built in the twelfth century, stands at a height of 22 meters, and is composed of four distinct levels. Its elegant design is a perfect example of Romanesque architecture. As you wander through the village, the impressive rock walls that flank it provide a dramatic backdrop, and picturesque alleys run along the stream, adding to the romantic atmosphere.
The village is beautifully situated against an impressive rock wall, with its charming alleys winding along a flowing stream and leading to small squares. Many of these alleys are pedestrian-only, which makes for a peaceful and enjoyable walk. You'll find an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and shops here, which naturally draws significant tourist traffic, especially during the peak season. Like in any typical Provençal town, the streets are adorned with beautiful fountains that once served as drinking water sources for thirsty locals. Today, they are a lovely aesthetic addition to the narrow streets. For a more relaxed experience, we highly recommend visiting in September or October. The weather is still mild and pleasant, and you'll find that parking spaces are much more available, allowing you to fully enjoy the village's charm without the crowds.
Gastronomy in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
The gastronomy of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a delicious reflection of the local Provençal and Alpine influences, with a strong emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients from the Verdon region. Given its proximity to both mountains and fertile land, the cuisine is a delightful blend of rustic and refined flavors.
What to Try?
- Trout (Truite): With the pristine rivers and streams of the Verdon region, freshwater trout is a local specialty. It's often served simply pan-fried with almonds or local herbs.
- Lamb from Sisteron: Lamb from the nearby Sisteron area is renowned for its quality and flavor, often roasted with herbs from Provence like thyme and rosemary.
- Lavender Honey: The lavender fields that blanket the Plateau de Valensole are a short distance away, producing a unique and fragrant honey that is a must-try.
- Local Cheeses: Look for artisanal goat and sheep cheeses from the surrounding farms, which are a perfect complement to local bread and wine.
- Herbs de Provence: The ubiquitous blend of aromatic herbs is fundamental to the local cuisine, infusing everything from roasted meats to vegetable dishes.
- Olive Oil: The region is known for its excellent olive oil, and you can find many local producers selling their oil directly.
Where to Eat?
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie offers a variety of charming restaurants and cafes, many with terraces offering spectacular views of the cliffs or the village's stream.
- La Bastide de Moustiers: (A short drive from the village) This is a Michelin-starred restaurant owned by the famous chef Alain Ducasse, offering an exceptional fine-dining experience in a luxurious setting.
- Le Relais: (In the village center) A classic choice with a terrace overlooking the stream, serving traditional Provençal cuisine.
- La Treille Muscate: (On the main square) A popular restaurant with a lovely outdoor seating area, known for its regional dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
- Cafes and Ice Cream Shops: There are many casual cafes and ice cream parlors in the old town, perfect for a light snack or a refreshing treat as you explore the streets.
- Local Bakeries: Stop by a local bakery to try some fresh bread or a traditional fougasse, a flatbread often flavored with olives or cheese.
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