Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the most beautiful village in the Gorges du Verdon

Spending a few days in the Gorges du Verdon without stopping off at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie should be a no-go! Clinging to the rock and surrounded by Provencal vegetation, the scent of thyme, olive trees and roses accompanies visitors throughout their stay. If you look up, you can see the little star that has protected the villagers for centuries. It gives the village the look of a Christmas cot and sparkles in the sunlight: hence its nickname of "the cot".

At an altitude of 630m, the natural setting of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is truly exceptional. The old village dates back to the 5th century: you'll never tire of wandering its narrow streets and admiring the old stone houses. The Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel was already a popular place of pilgrimage in the 12th century: it's a tough climb, but you can't miss the exceptional view.

In the 17th century, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie became the French capital of earthenware, which was snapped up all over the kingdom. After a period of decline, there are now eight workshops still in operation, as well as its Musée de la Faïence. Drop in to one of them to admire the art that has contributed so much to the village's reputation, and take home a typical souvenir!

In the 17th century, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie became the French capital of earthenware, which was snapped up all over the kingdom. After a period of decline, there are now eight workshops still in operation, as well as its Musée de la Faïence. Drop in to one of them to admire the art that has contributed so much to the village's reputation, and take home a typical souvenir!

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a charming stop-off point around the Gorges du Verdon: lose yourself in the village through the cobbled streets, cross the little bridges overhanging white water and old wash-houses, climb to the top for a breathtaking view, take a tour of the church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption... a day's visit is quickly filled. Another fun activity in the village is trying out the local cuisine, which has a strong Provençal flavour. Expect to taste almonds, honey, goat's cheese and delicious olive oil.

For its charm and location, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is also an excellent base for exploring the Gorges du Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, the Valensole plateau... in short, the whole region! Hotels, bed and breakfasts, but also campsites around the village mean you can stop here for a few days, or even for your whole stay around the Verdon.

⭐ Hôtel Le Colombier

There is no shortage of sporting activities to occupy your time outside the village. For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails (12 in all) starting from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The Pavillon hike is one of the most enjoyable, with its panoramic views over the Lac de Sainte-Croix and lavender fields. It takes around eight hours to complete, although there is also a shorter version.