Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is part 10 from South of France itinerary 12 days in Provence and the French Riviera
Is Moustiers-Sainte-Marie worth visiting?
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – the hidden gem of Southern France is one of the most beautiful villages of Provence according to the Association Plus Beaux Villages de France. Amphitheatrically situated under two huge limestone cliffs, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled at the foot of the mountain on a rocky terrace 100 meters high. The medieval village is located at the beginning of the most spectacular section of the Verdon Gorge and is part of the Verdon Regional Nature Park and the Geopark of Provence – a nature reserve included in the UNESCO list .
Moustier- Sainte-Marie history
The history of Moustiers-Saint-Marie begins at the time when the Cro-Magnons already inhabited the area. But it was only after the Middle Ages that the art of pottery brought fame to the village, after Pierre Clerici learned the secret of white pottery from a passing Italian monk. Moustiers achieved its growth thanks to crafts such as leather, ceramics, paper production. The mills also contribute to the development of the village, drawing water from the Verdon Gorge. Today, Moustiers is popular both for its picturesque location and for the production of its earthenware, left as the legacy of its ancestors and known throughout the world.
How to get to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie?
Important information!
Access to cars is prohibited in the village. Two large parking lots are available just below the cliffs where the stairs to the chapel start. Stays are charged per hour, after 7 p.m. the stay is not charged.
Where to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie?
Tip
When starting search for accommodation please carefully check the place on the map. Some of the hotels and houses are located some kilometers far from the main village and the center.
La maison de jules – the apartment in the center of the village was our choice. Simply furnished, in French chic, behind it was the waterfall. The rating is Exceptional 9.0 and the price for a night for two is 107 EUR.
La Ferme Rose-Hôtel de Charme – the hotel has a garden, an outdoor pool, free parking and facilities for disabled guests. The rating is Exceptional 9.0 and the price for a night for two is 162 EUR.
La Bouscatière – the hotel has a garden, an outdoor pool, a view of the river. The rating is Exceptional 9.2 and the price for a night for two is 206 EUR.
La Bastide du Paradou – the hotel has a restaurant, an exceptional garden, free parking and accepts pets. The rating is Exceptional 8.7 and the price for a night for two is 152 EUR.
Top 10 things to see and do in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Go to the bridge in the center of the village at sunset
It is not by chance that Moustiers has been chosen as one of the most beautiful villages in Provence. On a clear day, when the sun sets behind the southern cliff, a brilliant pink light envelops the village and the sight is indescribable. There are many restaurants around the bridge with a view of the Verdon gorge, and the waterfall passes by them.
Explore the waterfall of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
A natural scenic highlight is the waterfall in the center of the village, which is formed by a stream that originates from the inside of the rock. The small waterfalls turn into a waterfall literally between the houses, and in the lower part of the village the view is impressive. At night, when everything quiets down, the sound of water can be heard in the houses. We were lucky enough to stay in one of these houses, you will find a link to it at the end of the post.
Take a walk around the village
Before tourism became the dominant industry, for centuries the village was a center for pottery and faience. The tradition continues to this day in the numerous workshops in the village. The narrow streets abound with attractive houses, shops of artists and craftsmen, cafes and restaurants. The numerous small fountains and taps with drinking water are also characteristic of the village, similar to other traditional Provençal villages. The pastel colors of the houses, the waterfall that runs through the middle of the village, the historic part, the church, the streets with artisan workshops create a picturesque atmosphere and Moustiers can rightfully be proud of being one of the beautiful villages not only of Provence, but of the whole France.
Visit a shop and buy a souvenir
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is known with its faïence pottery. Shop windows attract customers with the products they offer and the piles of flowers and greenery around them. The second photo shows the view from our window.
The Parish church
Declared a historical monument of France in 1913, the parish church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption stands out among other churches with its Lombard-style Belfry, one of the most beautiful in Provence. The four-story square bell tower is 22 meters high. Dating back to the 12th century, it is one of three swinging bell towers in Europe.
The Golden Star
High above the village shines a gilded star, hanging on a chain 135 meters long, suspended between two rocks. According to the legend told by the Provençal poet Frédéric Mistral, the star appeared in the 10th century. During the Crusade, the knight Bozon de Blacas is said to have been captured by the Saracens. He vowed to hang a star over his home village if he could return home. Another legend says that two lovers who were separated by their warring families committed suicide by jumping off the cliffs and their families hung the star in their memory. The star has fallen 11 times over the years, but has been reattached after each fall. The sprocket and chain have been replaced over the years with the last replacement being 50 years ago.
Follow the sign of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Follow the sign on the stone pavement and it will lead you to the stairs to Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel at the foot of the imposing cliffs.
The Chapel of Notre Dame de Beauvoir
Following the signs we reach the stairs leading to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel. The small chapel was built at the end of the 12th century on the remains of the former church of the Virgin Mary from the 5th century. By the 16th century, it was influenced by the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The date of the last alteration is marked on the arch of the chapel – 1536. Like other Alpine chapels, it was intended to be “inspiring”. In the 17th century, stillborn children were baptized here, thereby opening the way to heaven. The Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel was declared a historical monument in 1921.
Hint
Find the star in the chappel.
Walk around the fortress walls
The cliffs around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie form natural fortifications, but the village was also further protected from the inside by a rampart, like many other medieval villages and towns in Provence and Europe. From the ramparts there is a wonderful view of the rooftops of Moustiers and the Verdon gorge.
Tip
Be aware that the pavement is quite slippery. Wear appropriate shoes or use the rope for support.
Enjoy the view from above
Take a look at the view to the village and the impressive area around.
Useful information
Where to park in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Access to cars is prohibited in the village. Two large parking lots are available just below the cliffs where the stairs to the chapel start. Stays are charged per hour, such as after 7 p.m. the stay is not charged.
Where to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
We chose a neat apartment in the center near the parish church and above the waterfall.
What to see around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- A must stop is Gorges du Verdon
- Lake Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon with its turquoise waters is a good idea for relaxation. Dozens of beaches are available to visitors and it is a real pleasure to swim in the crystal waters.
- The village of Saint-Croix-du-Verdon. For the finale, you can take a walk in the village of the same name and admire the views of the lake.
You may also like:
Saint-Paul-de-Vence from Nice – top things to do in one day
Gourdon village – The Eagle’s Nest of Provence
Gorges du Verdon canoe – the most spectacular canoe in France
How to plan an international trip?
If you have any questions related to the organization of an independent trip to France or need assistance, do not hesitate to contact me at: myplacestovist2021@gmail.com
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