48 Hours in Moustiers Sainte Marie: The Perfect Provence Weekend Guide
Province is renowned for its picturesque villages, but none is more eye-catching than Mustier St. Marie. It offers plenty of attractions and activities, too, making it perfect for a short break. Located in the Alp Deote Province Department at the heart of the spectacularly beautiful Park Natural Regional Duddon, the village derives its name from the Latin monasterium. A monastic community was set up here in the fifth century. St. Marie was added in the mid9th century to distinguish it from other muses in France and honor the Virgin Mary. The village’s strong connection with the Christian religion remains to this day, but it’s best known for its earthenware, Fyance, which you’ll find in a range of boutiques. Day one, morning. Take a leisurely coffee and croissant at the patisri pipit on the pedestrianized rud de la Borgad and enjoy the lovely views of the village cradled by a natural amphitheater. In particular, you’ll notice the beautiful Romanesque bell tower of the parish church which dominates the terra cotta tiled buildings below. Raise your eyes beyond this and you’ll spot a small chapel clinging to the limestone cliff face. Next, head up the street to the foot bridge. Pond Mustier and take a moment to admire the delightful waterfall that cascades through the village. Then visit the nearby church Iglles de Notradam de laion. Inside you’ll discover the altar consisting of a white marble sarcophagus dating from the 4th century. And you can learn more about the 12th century bell tower, one of the finest in the south of France. Before continuing your stroll, it’s worth popping into the tourist information office next door to pick up a map of the village and help you choose from its range of restaurants. Afternoon, fortified by lunch, you can tackle the 262 steps that lead to the chappelle deam devoir. The shea starts near the cemetery behind the rude de laorgad. As you climb, look out for the golden star Lewis de Mustier that’s suspended high up in the chasm. According to the legend popularized by provenal writer Frederick Mistral, a knight named Bzandlaka was taken prisoner during the Crusades and vowed that if he ever returned home safely, he would hang a star in tribute to the Virgin. Whatever the truth, the star, the original one has been replaced several times due to weathering, has certainly become emblematic of Mustier and is recognized as a symbol of gratitude and devotion by the faithful. When you reach the chapel, you’ll be rewarded by fabulous views of the village and Lacqua. If you’re here in high season on a Wednesday, finish the day at the evening market where you can sample local specialtities, including honey and goats cheese. Day two, morning. Visit the Muse de la right next to the Mary on the R deor de Lu. It’s on the small side. You’ll only need an hour or so, but offers a collection of over 300 masterpieces and a comprehensive history. This includes a certain Marcel Provence who is credited with revitalizing the fiance industry locally in the early 20th century after it fell into decline. The exhibitions are well presented too and translated into English. Follow your visit with a tour of the earthnware boutiques, but make sure you include fans bond in the plaster. You’ll be spoiled for choice again at lunch, but for fine dining, look no further than the bastid deier. This Michelin/greenstarred restaurant was created by celebrated chef Alan Ducass, who came here in the ’90s and instantly fell in love. Just a stones throw away is the Attelier Bondil, the workshop of Fyance Bondil, which offers halfhour guided tours. But you can also reach this via a gentle walk, Leo, that starts in the center of the village and meanders through olive groves to a wonderfully scenic viewpoint and picnic spot. Afternoon boat down the breathtakingly beautiful Gore Du Verdon with its turquoise waters just 10 minutes drive away or take a trip to the plateau de Valonsol above the village where the lavender fields are in full bloom from late June to mid July. If you prefer provence less crowded and cooler come in the late spring or early autumn. But whatever you decide the magic of Mier will charm you for sure. Craving more expert tips and insider guides to France?
Discover the enchanting village of Moustiers Sainte Marie, one of Provence’s most picturesque destinations! Nestled in the stunning Parc naturel régional du Verdon, this charming village offers the perfect 48-hour escape.
Join us as we explore:
✨ The iconic golden star suspended in the chasm
⛪ The historic Chapelle de Notre Dame de Beauvoir with breathtaking views
🎨 The village’s renowned faïence (earthenware) tradition
🏔️ The spectacular Gorges du Verdon with turquoise waters
💜 Lavender fields on the Plateau de Valensole
From climbing 262 steps to the clifftop chapel, to savoring Michelin-starred cuisine at Bastide de Moustiers, we’ll show you how to make the most of your short break in this medieval gem.
Whether you visit during lavender season or prefer the quieter charm of spring and autumn, Moustiers Sainte Marie promises unforgettable memories in the heart of Provence.
📖 Read the full itinerary and get more insider tips here: https://francetoday.com/travel/short-breaks/48-hours-in-moustiers-sainte-marie/
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