10 Unique Things to Do in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Are you looking for the best things to do in Moustiers Sainte-Marie? Even though Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is small, there’s no shortage of things to fill your day.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in France, is packed with charm and adventure. One minute you’re strolling along cobbled lanes lined with flowers, the next you’re climbing ancient stone steps to a chapel perched high above the village. Boutique shops tempt you with colorful pottery, cafés spill out onto sunny terraces, and hidden corners reveal fountains, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.

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Moustiers Sainte-Marie is one of those places that stays with you. Walking here isn’t just sightseeing—it’s about soaking in the calm, feeling the centuries-old charm in every corner. From the delicate pottery to the stunning views on the hike up to the chapel, every moment here is worth it.

10 Unique things to do in Moustiers Sainte-Marie that provide a deeper connection

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Experience the village through the eyes of its residents.

Find The Golden Star: Suspended between two cliffs above the village is a golden star, a symbol of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Legend suggests it was placed there by a knight returning from the Crusades as a vow to the Virgin Mary. The star has been replaced several times over the centuries, with the current one hanging from a 135-meter-long chain weighing 150 kg .
Visit the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel: Perched above the village, this chapel is accessible via a 262-step path. Dating back to the 12th century, it offers panoramic views of the village and the surrounding landscape. It’s a bit of a workout, but the view over the rooftops and cliffs is unforgettable. The ancient pathway and chapel feel frozen in time. Climb early to Notre-Dame de Beauvoir for a sunrise you’ll never forget — the soft light paints the village in gold, and you’ll have it almost to yourself.
Explore the Lavender Fields of Valensole: Approximately 30 minutes away, the Valensole Plateau is famous for its vibrant lavender fields, especially during the blooming season in late June and July .
Taste Traditional Faïence Pottery… with Your Eyes: Visit a local pottery workshop to watch artisans hand-paint delicate faïence ceramics, a craft that dates back centuries. Some shops even offer mini demonstrations.
Enjoy Sunset From the Village Walls: As the sun sets, the cliffs turn golden and the whole village seems to glow. Find a quiet spot near the edge of the village to take it all in — it’s pure magic.
Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Church: Located in the heart of the village, this Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century. Its Lombard bell tower is a notable feature, and the church is classified as a historical monument .
Proximity to Gorges du Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix Just a short drive from the village, the Verdon Gorge offers opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and enjoying breathtaking views. Lake Sainte-Croix, with its turquoise waters, is ideal for swimming and boating . Spend a morning paddling through the Verdon Gorge’s emerald waters, then enjoy a lakeside picnic at Sainte-Croix. For more charm, hop over to Riez — famous for its Roman columns and lavender markets.
Local Markets and Festivals Moustiers-Sainte-Marie hosts a weekly market every Friday morning, offering local products and crafts. In the summer, additional markets and festivals, such as the LavandEvasion and the Potter’s Market, celebrate the region’s culture and traditions.
Wander Through the Olive Groves of Les Claux: Just outside the village, the Les Claux trail offers a serene 1.5-hour walk through ancient olive groves. This peaceful path provides stunning views of the village’s cliffs and the distant Sainte-Croix Lake. It’s a favorite among locals seeking a tranquil escape into nature.
Hike the Tréguier Path for Panoramic Views: Starting near the village cemetery, the Tréguier Path is a hidden gem that leads hikers to breathtaking vistas overlooking Sainte-Croix Lake, the Valensole Plateau, and the Moustiers valley. It’s an ideal spot for a sunset picnic featuring local delicacies like Bondil charcuterie and Moustiers biscuits .

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one of those rare places that feels almost too perfect to be real.

From the soft scent of lavender in the air to the golden cliffs that frame the village like a painting, every detail invites you to slow down and simply enjoy. Whether you’re admiring the star hanging high above the rooftops, wandering through quiet alleyways bursting with flowers, or just sitting with a coffee watching the world go by, this little village has a way of staying with you long after you leave. Believe me: It’s the kind of place you dream about — and the kind you’ll want to return to again and again.