Attractions and Places To See around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie - Top 20

The region is home to the spectacular Gorges du Verdon, one of Europe's deepest canyons, offering breathtaking views and activities. Just a few kilometers away, you'll find the tranquil Lac de Sainte-Croix, known for its striking turquoise waters. Within the village itself, a natural waterfall cascades between houses. A short drive away, the Valensole Plateau is famous for its vibrant lavender fields during season.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is rich in history and culture. You can explore the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, which features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The village is also renowned for its traditional faïence pottery; the Musée de la Faïence showcases over 300 exceptional pieces, and you can visit numerous workshops and boutiques where artisans continue this centuries-old craft. Don't miss the historic wash-houses scattered throughout the village.

Yes, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie features several unique landmarks. The most iconic is The Golden Star of Moustiers (L'étoile de Moustiers), a mysterious golden star suspended by a chain high above the village between two mountains. Another significant site is the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, offering panoramic views after a climb of over 260 steps.

The area around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, kayaking, rafting, and swimming. For hiking, popular options include the challenging Blanc-Martel trail in the Gorges du Verdon. You can find various hiking routes in the Hiking around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie guide. Cycling routes, including those around Lake Sainte-Croix, are detailed in the Cycling around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie guide.

Absolutely! The Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix area is considered family-friendly, offering opportunities for gentle walks and enjoying the views. The Lac de Sainte-Croix is ideal for families, with safe swimming areas and pedal boating. Exploring the charming streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village itself, with its fountains and artisan shops, is also a delightful activity for all ages. The Blanc-Martel trail, while challenging in parts, has sections through unlit tunnels that can be a fun experience for the entire family with a flashlight.

For stunning views of the Gorges du Verdon, consider visiting the Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix area. The Pont d'Estellié offers great views of the Verdon River. Additionally, the View of the Verdon Gorge from the Blanc-Martel trail provides breathtaking landscapes from the heights of the canyon.

The best time to visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie largely depends on your interests. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the village, with fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is ideal for water activities on Lac de Sainte-Croix and seeing the lavender fields in full bloom on the Valensole Plateau, though it can be busier and hotter.

Yes, experienced trekkers will find challenging options. The Blanc-Martel trail is a well-known, demanding hike within the Gorges du Verdon, featuring unlit tunnels (requiring a flashlight) and steep terrain. It's considered one of the best ways to experience the canyon's depths. You can find more difficult routes in the Mountain Hikes around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie guide.

Absolutely! The nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix is a prime spot for water activities. Its clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, pedal boating, canoeing, and kayaking. You can also find opportunities for rafting and other water sports within the Gorges du Verdon itself.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty of the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix, often highlighting the breathtaking views. The charm of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village itself, with its picturesque streets, historical sites, and unique faïence pottery, is also a major draw. Many appreciate the blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration the region offers.

For a relaxed visit, simply wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village is a delightful experience, allowing you to soak in the Provençal atmosphere and discover hidden gems. The shores of Lac de Sainte-Croix also offer gentle strolls and opportunities to relax by the water. Some sections of the Hiking around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie guide include easy routes like the 'Lake Sainte-Croix – Galetas Bridge loop'.