Le Moustier (rock shelters) - Image 1
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Le Moustier Rock Shelters

4.5
·20 reviews·Peyzac-le-Moustier, France

A fairytale village clinging to a mountainside, famous for pottery and gateway to the Gorges du Verdon.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Le Moustier (rock shelters) - Image 1

Le Moustier Rock Shelters

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A fairytale village clinging to a mountainside, famous for pottery and gateway to the Gorges du Verdon.

4.5
(20 reviews)

"This village is a stunning, colorful, French hillside town right next to the famous Gorges du Verdon."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep, cobblestone streets are common. You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this charming village!

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be challenging. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the village center.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Star-Spangled Village

The Star-Spangled Village

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

A picturesque village clinging to a mountainside, famous for its colorful houses and artisanal pottery.

Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir

Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir

Perched above the village

Hike up to this iconic chapel for panoramic views of the village and surrounding gorges.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon

Near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Explore one of Europe's most spectacular canyons, perfect for hiking, kayaking, or scenic drives.

Artisanal Pottery Shops

Artisanal Pottery Shops

Throughout the village

Discover the village's centuries-old tradition of faience pottery, with unique handcrafted pieces.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hillside Charm

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a stunning hillside village, famous for its pottery and proximity to the Gorges du Verdon. Prepare for charming, narrow streets and a vertical landscape. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring!

Gateway to the Gorges

This village is an ideal base for exploring the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon. Plan your visit to include both the village's artistic heritage and the natural wonders of the nearby canyon.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for water activities
Crowd
High
When
June-July for Lavender
Why
Nearby lavender fields in bloom
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

have you heard of the most beautiful village in France? Admittedly, there are lots of villages that people say the same thing about but this one really is stunning. And it’s just a few minutes away from the Verdon Gorge! 📍 Moustiers-Sainte-Marie #moustierssaintemarie #southoffrance #frenchcountryside #francevillage #francetravel
@nikkionherway
122.5K likes • 718.1K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep, cobblestone streets are common. You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this charming village! TikTok

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be challenging. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the village center. TikTok

save this french villlage for your south of france travel itinerary! #MoustiersSainteMarie is a mountain-side village not far from the famous Gorges du Verdon. Situated between two canyons, there are stunning views of the mountains everywhere you go in the village, as well as a river running right through the center. Check out the pottery shops as they are known for this here! Also take a little h...
@loveellareese
100.5K likes • 964.7K views
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence ❤️🇫🇷 Don’t miss this incredible village in Provence, one of the most beautiful villages in France 😍 2 of the best places to see around Moustiers: - Gorges du Verdon 💦 - Lavender fields in Valensole (June, July) 💜 🚗 To go to Moustiers by car: 1h30 drive from Marseille and 2h from Nice By @Julian Petrillo
@frenchrivieraguide
7.7K likes • 212.9K views

🏺 Pottery Treasures

Moustiers is famous for its faience pottery. Browse the shops for unique souvenirs. TikTokReddit

🏞️ Gorges du Verdon Access

The village is a perfect launchpad for exploring the Gorges du Verdon. Plan a day trip! TikTok+1

One of my favorite fairytale french villages to visit✨Welcome to… 📍#moustierssaintemarie a beautiful, colorful, french hillside town right next to the famous Gorges du Verdon🫶 Follow for more travel recs, inspo, vlogs, and adventures✨ Full travel guides in my bio! #frenchvillage #gorgesduverdon #placestogo #southoffrance #moustiersstemarie #onthisday
@loveellareese
3.8K likes • 170.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep, cobblestone streets are common. You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this charming village! TikTok

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be challenging. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the village center. TikTok

🏺 Pottery Treasures

Moustiers is famous for its faience pottery. Browse the shops for unique souvenirs. TikTokReddit

🏞️ Gorges du Verdon Access

The village is a perfect launchpad for exploring the Gorges du Verdon. Plan a day trip! TikTok+1

💧 Find the Reservoir

Look for the reservoir with picnic tables for a relaxing break and great views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(20 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for its breathtaking beauty, charming atmosphere, and its ideal location for exploring the Gorges du Verdon. The village's artisanal pottery and historical significance are also major draws. Some find parking challenging and the village can get crowded during peak season.

"Tourist attractions nearby, nice places to stay and restaurants to eat. Excellent location to visit with kids and family. Must try Pakistani vegetarian cuisine in this small village where food can be enjoyed in a beautiful garden."

Inaam Hussain

"Visit thanks to a well-known treasure hunt in New Aquitaine.
Pleasant village and surroundings."

Raphael

"Beautiful walk in town and along the water. Pretty little church. Picnic possible. Visit via TerraAventura. Find the reservoir with picnic tables, rest guaranteed."

Amandine Gouillard

What People Like

Stunning hillside village
Proximity to Gorges du Verdon
Artisanal pottery

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Crowded in peak season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is best reached by car. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Marseille and 2 hours from Nice. Public transport options are limited, so a car is highly recommended for flexibility. TikTok

While buses do serve the region, they are infrequent. For most visitors, driving is the most practical way to reach and explore Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and its surroundings. TikTok

Parking within the village is very limited. There are several parking lots available at the entrance to the village. Arriving early in the day is advised, especially during peak season. TikTok

Yes, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie makes for a beautiful day trip from Nice or Marseille, though it's a longer drive. Consider staying overnight to fully enjoy the village and the Gorges du Verdon. TikTok

The roads leading to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie are scenic but can be winding, especially as you approach the village. Drive cautiously and enjoy the beautiful Provençal landscape. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees to wander through the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie itself. Access to the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir may have specific opening hours. TikTok

The village is always accessible, but individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically closing for a lunch break. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir has specific visiting times. TikTok

The Gorges du Verdon are a natural park and generally free to access. Activities like boat rentals or guided tours within the gorges will have separate costs. TikTok

Absolutely! Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a family-friendly destination. The village offers a unique experience with its charming streets and the nearby Gorges du Verdon provides opportunities for outdoor fun. Reddit

Yes, there is a tourist office in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie that can provide maps, information on local attractions, and advice on activities in the Gorges du Verdon. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the picturesque streets, admire the artisanal pottery, hike to the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir for stunning views, and enjoy the natural beauty of the nearby Gorges du Verdon. TikTok+1

The hike up to the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir offers breathtaking panoramic views. Many spots within the village also provide lovely vistas of the surrounding cliffs and river. TikTok

Yes, the village itself is a joy to explore on foot, with its winding paths. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking opportunities, especially within the Gorges du Verdon. Reddit

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is renowned for its beautiful hillside setting, its centuries-old tradition of faience pottery, and its status as one of the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France' (Most Beautiful Villages of France). TikTok+1

Yes, there are designated areas for swimming in the Gorges du Verdon, particularly in the Sainte-Croix lake. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find traditional Provençal cuisine, including local specialties. There are also unique options like Pakistani vegetarian cuisine available in a garden setting. Reddit

Yes, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie offers several restaurants with fine dishes and good wine in pleasant settings, often with attentive service and reasonable prices. Reddit

While traditional Provençal cuisine can be meat-heavy, there are vegetarian options available, including a highly recommended Pakistani vegetarian restaurant. Reddit

Dining prices can vary, but many reviews suggest that you can enjoy delicious meals at relatively reasonable prices, especially considering the quality and setting. Reddit

Yes, you can find charming cafes and bakeries in the village, perfect for a morning coffee, a light lunch, or a sweet treat while exploring. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the colorful houses cascading down the hillside, the iconic star suspended between cliffs, and the views from the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir. The Gorges du Verdon also offer stunning photographic opportunities. TikTok+1

Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful light for photographing the village's architecture and landscapes. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the village's charm and the vastness of the Gorges du Verdon. A telephoto lens can be useful for details and distant landscapes. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots. TikTok

The steep, narrow streets can be challenging to photograph without including too much foreground or background. Patience and creative framing are key. Capturing the star between the cliffs requires a specific vantage point. TikTok

While Moustiers is at the entrance, the best Gorges du Verdon photos are taken from viewpoints within the gorge itself or from the shores of the Sainte-Croix lake. The village offers a beautiful context for the gorge. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a fantastic destination for families. The village's charming, walkable streets are an adventure in themselves for children to explore. The nearby Gorges du Verdon offers plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as swimming and gentle boat rides on the Lac de Sainte-Croix. TikTokReddit

Look for the Terra Aventura treasure hunt mentioned by visitors, which can add an extra layer of fun and engagement for younger explorers. The presence of a reservoir with picnic tables also provides a great spot for a family break. Remember to pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the village is quite hilly.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on its natural beauty and free attractions. Wandering through the village, hiking in the Gorges du Verdon, and enjoying picnics are all cost-free activities. TikTokReddit Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on expenses. While pottery can be an investment, window shopping is free and enjoyable. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This village is a photographer's dream! Capture the unique architecture, the vibrant colors of the houses, and the iconic star suspended between the cliffs. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir offers stunning panoramic shots. TikTok+2

Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the dramatic landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon. Early morning and late afternoon light (golden hour) will provide the most magical shots. Be prepared for steep climbs and narrow streets, which can add a unique perspective to your photos.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Moustiers Pottery

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, renowned for its exquisite faience pottery. This tradition, influenced by Italian majolica, features distinctive blue and white patterns, often depicting religious scenes, floral motifs, or local life. Many workshops and boutiques throughout the village showcase this artisanal craft, offering visitors a chance to admire and purchase unique pieces. The Pottery Museum (Musée de la Faïence) provides a deeper dive into the evolution and artistry of Moustiers pottery. TikTok+1

Exploring the pottery shops is a highlight for many visitors. You can often see artisans at work, demonstrating the skill and dedication involved in creating these beautiful ceramics. From delicate plates to decorative vases, the variety is impressive. It’s a perfect opportunity to find a truly special souvenir that embodies the spirit of this charming village. TikTok

Exploring the Gorges du Verdon

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie serves as a perfect gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, one of Europe's most spectacular natural wonders. This immense canyon, carved by the Verdon River, offers breathtaking vistas, turquoise waters, and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The village's location at the western entrance makes it ideal for planning excursions into the gorge. TikTok+2

Popular activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix, the large reservoir at the end of the gorge. For the adventurous, hiking trails wind through the canyon, offering varying levels of difficulty and stunning viewpoints. Scenic drives along the gorge rim provide unforgettable panoramas, with numerous pull-offs for photo opportunities. Remember to check road conditions and potential closures, especially outside of peak season. TikTok

A Village Steeped in History

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is not just visually stunning; it's a village with a deep historical narrative. Its origins trace back to Roman times, and it gained prominence in the Middle Ages. The village's unique setting, nestled between two rocky cliffs, provided natural defense and contributed to its isolated charm. The iconic star suspended between the cliffs is a testament to a vow made by a knight returning from the Crusades, a legend that adds to the village's mystique. TikTok+1

The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir, perched high above the village, is a significant historical and spiritual landmark. The climb to the chapel is rewarded not only with historical insight but also with unparalleled views of the village and the surrounding landscape. The village's inclusion as one of the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France' (Most Beautiful Villages of France) underscores its enduring appeal and well-preserved heritage. TikTok

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