Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the jewel of the Verdon, nestled against the cliffs and steeped in the art of earthenware
At the gateway to the Verdon and Haute Provence, let yourself be guided through the maze of narrow streets in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, nestled at the foot of its majestic cliffs. Here, the waters of the Adou murmur between the houses whilst the suspended star watches over the village.
Just a stone’s throw away, Lake Sainte-Croix and the Gorges du Verdon invite you to enjoy water sports against a backdrop of turquoise scenery. Finally, step inside the workshops: the art of Moustiers earthenware awaits you there.
The blue of the water, the blue of the earthenware
Every shade of blue can be found in Moustiers, from the sky to Lake Sainte-Croix, not to mention the designs on the famous earthenware. Whether you’re interested in water sports, arts and crafts or cultural heritage, Moustiers is sure to charm you.
The Moustiers Legend
According to Frédéric Mistral’s legend, the star suspended between the two cliffs overlooking Moustiers is an ex-voto dedicated to the Virgin Mary, installed in fulfilment of a vow made by Chevalier Blacas, a crusader imprisoned by the Saracens who had promised that, should he return to his village, he would hang a star and its chain there.
Your experiences to live in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
©Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Tourist Office
Meet the pottery artisans
Step inside the workshops and marvel at the precise techniques of the Moustiers potters. This is your chance to experience an art form that has sustained the village for centuries, with demonstrations, unique creations and skills passed down from generation to generation.
©Lezbroz Tourist Office, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Be amazed by the views from the Tréguier viewpoint
Take the Tréguier footpath for a walk filled with the scent of pine trees and wild herbs, leading to a viewpoint offering one of the most stunning panoramic views of Lake Sainte-Croix. The perfect spot to take a breather… and feast your eyes!
A picnic at Lake Sainte-Croix
Five kilometres from the village, settle down on Cadeno Beach and enjoy a moment out of time. On the shores of the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix, in unspoilt surroundings, let yourself be carried away by the peaceful atmosphere for a picnic and a relaxing afternoon.
Savour Provence at the market(s)
All year round, wander amongst the colourful stalls of the Friday morning market: olives, cheeses, honey, ceramics and local crafts will immerse you in the heart of the Provençal way of life. And in summer, the craft market and the night market reveal even more local flavours and talents.
Get your fill of thrills
Ready to take to the skies? Take off on a paragliding flight over the Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix. Up there, everything looks spectacular: lavender fields, cliffs and Alpine peaks combine to create a truly breathtaking aerial spectacle!
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026
Marché provençal
Every Fridays morning, all year. Local market products.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
"Estello" treasure hunt
Follow Estello, the village’s little star, and explore Moustiers-Sainte-Marie through puzzles, riddles and hidden treasures. A fun-filled adventure through the narrow streets and nearby paths, perfect for learning whilst having fun and experiencing the village in a different way.
Climbing in the Verdon
Fancy testing your limits? The Verdon cliffs are a unique playground for trying your hand at rock climbing or vertiginous routes. With challenges and spectacular views aplenty, get ready for some unforgettable moments!
Hike to the summit of Le Pavillon
The return of the sunshine is perfect for a lovely walk to the summit of Pavillon, at an altitude of 1,625 metres. Whether you choose the longer route (23.6 km / 7–8 hours’ walk) or the shorter one (10 km / 4 hours’ walk), the trail gradually reveals superb views of the ridges, the forests and, of course, the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix.
Cycling & Mountain Biking Routes
When the colours of autumn set the plateaus and the lake shores ablaze, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie becomes a cyclist’s paradise. Scenic roads, forest trails, gravel tracks: there’s something for everyone.
Our recommendations
Le Colombier
Le Colombier
This three-star hotel is housed in a spacious Provençal mansion set in peaceful and relaxing surroundings just a few hundred metres from the centre of Moustiers.
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
La Ferme Rose
This pink-façaded house is home not only to a three-star hotel, but also to the extensive collections of its owner. It is a charming spot, located less than a kilometre from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Map of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Prepare your stay at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Office de Tourisme de Moustiers
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