Riez & Lac de Sainte-Croix, Provence, France
With a history stretching back to the 1st century, Riez is a captivating town in the heart of Provence that proudly displays the many traces of its rich past. This charming destination is ideally situated near two of the region's most spectacular natural wonders: the tranquil Lac de Sainte-Croix and the dramatic Verdon Canyon. It serves as a perfect gateway to the area, located just about 14 km east of the famous lavender plateau of Valensole and 15 km west of the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Known as the "City of Roman Columns," Riez is a designated `Cité de Caractère`, a title that highlights its historical significance and architectural heritage. The town's cobblestone streets and ancient buildings tell a story of Roman foundations, medieval prosperity, and Provençal charm. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with its strategic location, makes Riez an excellent starting point for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures of the Verdon Regional Natural Park.
Parking in Riez
Finding a convenient place to park in Riez is remarkably easy, thanks to a generously sized and free parking lot located right next to the old quarter (1; GPS: 43.816504, 6.091839). To access it, simply turn onto Place Maxime Javelly from Allée Louis Gardiol, and within about 100 meters, you will find ample space to leave your car. The fact that this vast lot is free of charge is a huge bonus, allowing you to explore the town without any parking concerns.
This parking facility is strategically positioned to offer a seamless start to your walking tour of Riez's historic heart. Its proximity to the old town allows you to step out of your car and immediately immerse yourself in the charming streets and ancient landmarks. This convenience is particularly valuable during the busy summer months, ensuring that your visit begins on a relaxed and stress-free note.
Strolling through Riez's Historic Streets
From the parking lot, your walking tour of Riez can begin immediately. As you exit, turn left onto Allée Louis Gardiol and head towards the majestic Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption de Riez (A; GPS: 43.8181281, 6.0910475). This impressive religious building is a great starting point to admire the town's historical and architectural details. From there, continue north on Rue du Fbg Saint-Sébastien, where you will pass the charming Benoîte Fountain (B; GPS: 43.818861, 6.090948), a delightful landmark dating back to 1819.
As you wander through the labyrinth of Riez's narrow streets, you'll feel the history all around you. Make your way towards the eastern edge of the old town to discover the intersection of Allée Louis Gardiol, Rue de l'Ormeau, and Rue Eyguière, where you'll find the elegant Colonne Fountain (C; GPS: 43.817307, 6.093823), topped with a decorative vase. This picturesque spot is located right next to the very interesting Porte d'Ayguières, one of the town's old fortified gates. From this point, you can head north along Chemin des Mongettes to reach the old clock tower (D; GPS: 43.819336, 6.092451), which stands as a silent guardian over the town.
Beyond its medieval fountains and gates, Riez is particularly famous for its ancient Roman ruins. As you explore, be sure to look for the four Roman columns of the Temple of Apollo, a spectacular remnant of the town's ancient past that is located near the town center. The town also comes alive on Wednesdays and Saturdays during its lively market days, when local producers fill the streets with stalls of fresh produce, lavender products, and artisanal crafts, offering a vibrant glimpse into Provençal life.
The stunning Lac de Sainte-Croix
A short drive from Riez will take you to the magnificent Lac de Sainte-Croix, a sprawling artificial reservoir formed by the construction of the Sainte-Croix dam on the Verdon River. This stunning lake has become a major tourist destination, drawing visitors with its large number of sailing centers, bathing resorts, and opportunities for water sports. The water's beautiful, almost otherworldly greenish-blue color is a sight to behold, especially on a sunny day when the light makes it truly sparkle.
The lake is bordered by the dramatic landscapes of the Verdon Canyon, one of the largest canyons in Europe, known as the Gorges du Verdon. This proximity makes the lake the perfect place to relax after exploring the canyon. For breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area, we recommend driving along scenic routes like the Route de Moustiers, which also leads you past stunning lavender fields (E; GPS: 43.792914, 6.186970) during the blooming season.
We made another stop on the D957 road (F; GPS: 43.803359, 6.235276), from where we could admire the famous Galetas bridge, which majestically spans the point where the Verdon River flows into the lake. Driving to this bridge (G; GPS: 43.802269, 6.249674) offers a spectacular viewpoint to look down into the canyon and across the vast expanse of the turquoise water. The views from here are truly unforgettable, providing a full appreciation of the scale and beauty of the lake and its natural surroundings.
Gastronomy in Riez
As a town in the heart of Provence, Riez offers a culinary experience defined by the region's rich agricultural heritage. The local cuisine is simple yet incredibly flavorful, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the surrounding fields and farms.
What to Try?
- Lavender Honey: The area around Riez is famous for its lavender fields, and the resulting honey is a must-try. Its unique, delicate flavor is perfect for spreading on bread or drizzling over cheese.
- Olive Oil: Provençal olive oil is a staple of the local diet. Be sure to sample some of the local oils, which are often sold directly by producers in the area.
- Truffles: The Verdon region is known for its truffles. If you visit in season, look for dishes featuring this prized ingredient.
- Local Cheeses: Try the local goat cheeses, such as `Banon`, which is wrapped in chestnut leaves and has a distinctive, tangy flavor.
- Herbes de Provence: These aromatic herbs are used in almost every dish. You can buy them fresh or dried from the local market to take home as a souvenir.
Where to Eat?
- Market: The market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is the best place to find fresh, local produce, cheeses, and charcuterie.
- Restaurants in the Old Town: The town's narrow streets have several charming restaurants serving classic Provençal dishes in a cozy setting.
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