The Storybook Village Among France's Lavender Fields
Follow the rural Provençal roads through the breathtaking lavender fields of Valensole and past the turquoise water of the Verdon Gorge to arrive at the charming cliffside village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie…
Uniquely built between the slopes of limestone mountains, the medieval 6th century town is made up of narrow, cobble-stone streets and pastel-colored buildings. Charming homes, restaurants, and shops line the creek that runs directly through Moustiers with picturesque stone bridges connecting both sides of town. The pure, trickling water continuously flows from the mountain peaks to form waterfalls in the heart of the village, and the streets are adorned with gushing, majestic fountains.
Moustiers is one of those places where I took photos of almost everything. It’s so beautiful that I wanted to remember every magical detail.
Look up toward the mountains to spot the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel perched on the side of a cliff, only accessible by walking a steep 262-step path. The Romanesque church dates back to the 14th century and was built on the remains of a 5th century temple originally used by monks.
Moustiers even has a local mystery—a golden star suspended high above the village between the rocky mountains on an iron chain. Legend has it that the original star was hung up by a knight when he returned home alive after fighting in the Crusades, but the origins have never been confirmed. If you look closely in the lower left photo, you can see the star shining bright in the sky. And then look closely in the lower middle photo where you can spot a hang glider soaring past the church!
Moustiers is one of the most dreamlike and breathtaking places I’ve visited, but that came as a surprise. While planning my two week Provence trip, I knew I wanted to visit the village but only as a quick stop after visiting Valensole. I would definitely recommend spending a few nights in Moustiers and making it your home base to take unforgettable day trips to the nearby lavender fields and the Verdon Gorge.
