Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is an enchanting Provencal village surrounded by centuries-old defensive walls and soaring limestone cliffs. Regularly voted one of the most beautiful villages in France, it will charm you with its cobbled alleys, sun-drenched squares and pastel-coloured buildings. Venture out of town to explore the stunning Verdon Natural Regional Park.
Things to do in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Local artists have been making ceramics in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for hundreds of years. Learn about the centuries-old artform at Musée de la Faïence, which is filled with beautiful glazed earthenware made in the village. You can shop for your own handmade ceramics at more than a dozen workshops and galleries located in the village.
Chapelle Notre Dame de Beauvoir is perched on a clifftop overlooking the village, with access via a steep walking trail. The church dates back to the 14th century and features a distinctive square belltower. From the churchyard, you can enjoy sweeping views over the village and surrounding countryside.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is set within Verdon Natural Regional Park and the village is a great base for exploring the reserve. The dramatic Gorges du Verdon cuts through the limestone plateau and is known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe”. Use waymarked trails to venture deeper into the park and spot local wildlife like deer, mountain goats and griffon vultures.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is dotted with cosy cafes and bistros where you can try traditional food from the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. The cold climate has resulted in rich and hearty cuisine, with local dishes including cheese fondue, slow-cooked lamb and “tartiflette” potato casserole made with cream and white wine.
Getting around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is compact and easy to get around on foot. Parking is limited in the village though there are some larger lots just outside the centre. The village is a two-hour drive from Marseille and 2.5 hours from Nice. Local buses connect Moustiers-Sainte-Marie with major towns and cities in Southeast France.