One of the most beautiful villages in France
What a wonderful discovery the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is! We easily spent an entire day there, and it has become a true favorite for all of us!
Since 1981, the village has been classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The architecture is absolutely stunning: the old rosy stones, numerous fountains, the stream running through the village, and the small bridges spanning it… The most visually impressive feature remains the towering cliffs framing the village and the beautiful church perched at the top. It truly looks like a Provençal nativity scene.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a tiny village with about 700 inhabitants, though many more during the summer season! The village thrives mainly on tourism, so if you visit during peak season, be prepared for some crowding in the narrow streets!
Moustiers is also the capital of faience. Throughout the village, you will find shops and artisan workshops.
What to do in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ?
- From the village, you will find numerous hiking trails.
- Visit the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel. The path can be a bit challenging in rainy weather as it becomes very slippery if you don’t have the right shoes. The slope is quite steep, and it will take about twenty minutes to reach the chapel with children. The view of the village from the top is stunning.
- Visit the Faience Museum.
Where to Park in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ?
- By car : you will find paid parking lots at the bottom of the village walls. From there, you can either walk up or take a small train for an additional fee. The walk up is quite quick and easy.
- By campervan : there is a paid area at the bottom of the village. Unfortunately, it is small, not shaded, and without electricity, making it quite expensive for the services offered. However, it will be difficult to park elsewhere during peak season.
What to do around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ?
- The village is located in the Verdon Regional Natural Park, between Var and Alpes de Haute-Provence. Just a few minutes from the Verdon Gorges, you will have plenty of options for sports activities. Between the hiking and water activities offered throughout the gorges, you won’t be bored.
- You can also visit the beautiful Lake Sainte-Croix, about 20 minutes by car. Its turquoise water makes it one of the most beautiful artificial lakes in France.
- The Valensole Plateau, with its endless lavender fields, is also less than a 30-minute drive away.
- Visit one of the many faience workshops.
- Go swimming at the La Cadeno recreational area.
Where to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ?
- For campervans, you can spend the night at the designated area for campervans. Additionally, there are numerous campsites around the village, offering various amenities and proximity to the village.
- By car, there are plenty of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and a holiday village both in and around the village.
