Attractions and Places To See around Riez - Top 20

Riez, known as "Riez-la-Romaine," boasts a rich history. You can visit the impressive Roman Columns, remnants of a 1st-century temple dedicated to Apollo. The 5th-century Baptistery, one of Gaul's few surviving early Christian buildings, now houses a small archaeological museum. Other notable sites include the Hôtel de Mazan, a Gothic-style Renaissance mansion, and the Clock Tower, the last vestige of the 14th-century ramparts. Don't miss the Porte Ayguiere and Porte Samson, original medieval gateways, and the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption Cathedral.

Riez is nestled within the Verdon Natural Regional Park, offering stunning landscapes. The magnificent Verdon Gorge is a must-see, known for its breathtaking views and opportunities for water sports. Just a short distance away is Lac de Sainte-Croix, a beautiful leisure lake perfect for various water activities. The town is also in the heart of the Valensole Plateau, famous for its vast lavender fields.

Yes, Riez is an excellent base for hiking. Several well-marked trails depart from the town, including five short routes and sections of the famous GR4, allowing you to explore the surrounding Verdon and Valensole Plateau. For more detailed options, you can explore various running trails around Riez, many of which are suitable for walking.

Absolutely. The region around Riez offers diverse cycling opportunities. There are two mountain biking circuits, one of which is suitable for families. For road cyclists, routes like the 'Riez – Plateau de Valensole loop' or the 'View of the Verdon Gorge – Verdon Gorge loop' are popular. You can find more information on road cycling routes and MTB trails around Riez.

Lac de Sainte-Croix is a popular spot for water activities. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, pedal boating, and other water sports. The lake's stunning turquoise color and the surrounding natural beauty make it ideal for relaxation and scenic views, especially near the Gorges du Verdon.

The best time to witness the lavender fields in full bloom on the Valensole Plateau, near Riez, is typically from mid-June to mid-July. This period offers the most vibrant purple hues and the characteristic fragrant air.

Yes, the Riez area offers several family-friendly options. Exploring the historic town center with its traditional Provencal fountains and washhouse can be enjoyable. The Lac de Sainte-Croix provides opportunities for safe swimming and pedal boating. Additionally, some mountain biking circuits are designed to be suitable for families, and many easy walking trails are available.

Beyond its Roman heritage, Riez offers a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the Archaeological Museum of Riez within the Baptistery to see Roman inscriptions and artifacts. Experience local life at the traditional Provencal market held every Wednesday and Saturday morning, where you can find local produce, truffles, olive oil, and honey. The town's compact 14th-century heart with its old stone and pastel-painted houses also provides a charming cultural immersion.

For panoramic views, ascend to the Chapel Sainte-Maxime on the hill of Saint-Maxime via a Way of the Cross with 262 stone steps. Another exceptional viewpoint is from the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, offering stunning vistas of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the surrounding valley. The Notre-Dame de la Garde Chapel in Baudinard also provides an incredible view of Lake Sainte-Croix.

Yes, the region is dotted with picturesque "villages of character." A highly recommended visit is Moustiers Sainte-Marie, renowned for its faience pottery and dramatic setting beneath steep cliffs. The village of Valensole, also on the plateau, is another charming option, especially during lavender season.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie is celebrated for its unique character and stunning location between the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful streets, traditional architecture, and the famous faience pottery. The village is also known for the golden star suspended between two cliffs above it.

Riez has a significant Roman past. The most prominent archaeological features are the four monolithic Roman Columns, nearly six meters high, which are the last remnants of a 1st-century Roman temple. Excavations have also uncovered evidence of substantial Roman thermal baths. The Baptistery, dating to the 5th century, is another key archaeological site, showcasing early Christian architecture and housing Roman inscriptions.

Visitors to the Riez area frequently praise the blend of historical sites, such as the Roman columns and ancient baptistery, with the stunning natural beauty of the Verdon Natural Regional Park. The proximity to the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix for outdoor activities, combined with the charm of traditional Provencal villages like Moustiers Sainte-Marie and the vast lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau, are often highlighted as favorite aspects.

Yes, Riez offers several easy walking trails suitable for a leisurely exploration of the surrounding countryside. These shorter routes allow visitors to enjoy the Provencal landscape without strenuous effort. You can find various options, including routes that pass through lavender fields or offer gentle ascents to scenic spots. Many of the running trails around Riez also serve as excellent easy walks.

The Verdon Natural Regional Park is a protected area known for its unspoiled environment and impressive natural landscapes, including the famous Gorges du Verdon. From Riez, you can experience the park by visiting the Verdon Gorge for breathtaking views and water activities on Lac de Sainte-Croix. The park also offers numerous hiking and cycling trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in its diverse flora and fauna.