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When travellers dream of the beautiful villages of Provence, they imagine golden stone houses, pastel shutters, cascading flowers, and sunlit squares.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie embodies all of this and even more.
Nestled dramatically between towering limestone cliffs and touched by the freshness of a mountain spring, this village is regularly listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” and stands as one of the true jewels of Provence.
With its charming streets, artisan boutiques, and breathtaking scenery, Moustiers offers everything visitors look for in a quintessential Provençal escape.
Moustiers has been famous for its faïence ceramics since the 17th century.
As you wander through the village, you’ll find numerous ateliers and boutiques showcasing:
The craftsmanship is exceptional. Many pieces are still created and painted by hand, preserving centuries of tradition.
It’s no wonder that Moustiers is known worldwide for some of the finest ceramics in France.
One of the most iconic sights in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is the golden star that hangs high above the village, suspended on a chain between two cliffs.
According to legend, the star was placed there by a knight returning from the Crusades as a vow of gratitude.
Whether you believe the tale or simply admire the beauty, the star adds a magical touch to an already enchanting village – a symbol that sets Moustiers apart from other beautiful villages in Provence.
Your photos capture Moustiers-Sainte-Marie exactly as it feels: a village bathed in soft, golden light, where every corner reveals another irresistible detail. As you stroll through its narrow cobblestone lanes, you’ll pass honey-colored houses with pastel shutters, façades draped in cascading vines, and bursts of flowers spilling from balconies and stone planters.
The heart of the village is wonderfully alive. Cafés invite you to linger over a croissant and a cup of coffee, while the scent of lavender drifts through artisan boutiques filled with hand-painted ceramics. Every turn leads to another postcard-perfect view, whether it’s a quiet square shaded by plane trees, a charming fountain murmuring in the background, or a hidden passageway that opens to a sweeping view of the rooftops and surrounding cliffs.
Moustiers is the kind of place where wandering feels like a privilege, and where the simple act of walking becomes one of the greatest pleasures of visiting one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is the climb to the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir Chapel, perched high above the village. The journey begins in the heart of Moustiers, where ancient stone steps lead you gradually upward between the cliffs.
As you ascend, the village slowly falls away beneath you, revealing terracotta rooftops nestled against limestone walls. The path offers glimpses of the landscape that becomes more breathtaking with every step. It’s a short climb, but wonderfully immersive.
When you finally reach the chapel, the reward is extraordinary. Standing on the terrace, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views over Moustiers and the rolling Provençal countryside beyond. From this vantage point, the village looks like a painting: warm colors, winding lanes, and the golden star suspended between the cliffs.
It’s a moment of the most memorable ways to appreciate why Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is truly one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie sits at the entrance of the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s most stunning river canyon.
Its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs make it an ideal destination for:
Few beautiful villages in Provence blend culture and nature as seamlessly as Moustiers does.
Best time to visit: Spring, summer, or early autumn
Parking: Several car parkings are at the village entrance
Wear good shoes: The village is steep and cobbled
Shops: Ceramics boutiques often close for lunch
Photography: Early morning and late afternoon light are stunning
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, combining a rich artisanal heritage with spectacular natural surroundings.
From its world-famous ceramics and iconic golden star to the dramatic cliffs that frame every view, it offers an unforgettable experience.
Whether you love authentic craftsmanship, picturesque streets, or proximity to the Gorges du Verdon, this village promises a magical visit filled with the true essence of Provence.
It’s not just a village. It’s a fairy-tale moment waiting to be discovered.