The region
Discover the region
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is located in the centre of ``Region SUD`` (Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur) and is therefore an ideal ``base`` for exploring Provence. The immediate surroundings of the village also offer the most beautiful landscapes in France: lavender fields as far as the eye can see, the largest canyon in Europe and an emerald blue lake.
In this section, you will find a description of our 8 favorite places: 4 within 10 km of the house and 4 within 100km of the house:
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie - 0 km
This village, one of the most beautiful villages in France, is located south of the Alpes de Haute-Provence and was founded in the 5th century. It benefits from a privileged natural environment, in the immediate vicinity of Lake St. Croix and the Verdon Canyon. A large part of the village is pedestrian. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, also known as the “capital of faïence”(earthenware), has many shops, restaurants and lots of cosy bars.
Lake St. Croix - 5 km
Lake Sainte-Croix is the fourth largest artificial lake in France and the largest lake in Provence. With an area of about 2,200 ha, it was impounded in 1973. It extends to the Verdon Canyon. Many water sports can be practiced there.
The Verdon Canyon - 7 km
The Verdon Canyon stretches for about 50 km along the river of the same name. It is the largest canyon in Europe with locally 700 m high cliffs. This exceptional natural site offers many sporting opportunities, including magnificent hikes.
Plateau de Valensole - 9 km
Plateau de Valensole, located at an avearge height of about 2.000 ft, is a large flat area of 800 sqkm. It’s the country of unending lavender fields which are blossoming between mid-June and mid-July.
The market of Forcalquier - 60 km
Forcalquier is a small city of 4.600 inhabitants located between Luberon and the “Montagne de Lure”. Forcalquier is renowned for its weekly market, one of the most important markets in Provence. The market offers exhibitors through a large part of the city each Monday between 8 A.M. and 2 P.M.
Sisteron - 72 km
Sisteron is known as the “gate to Provence”. This small city is located at the geographical and historic border between Dauphiné and Provence. The citadel is the main attraction of the city and is worth a visit.
Aix-en-Provence - 90 km
Located at the west of the “Montagne de Sainte Victoire”, Aix-en-Provence once was the capital of Provence. Aix-en Provence enjoys a pleasant climate and is relatively well protected from the northern “mistral” wind. Don’t miss a visit to Aix-en-Provence while staying in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, it’s not that far.
The Riviera - 93 km
It might look useless to spend time to visit the crowded Riviera while staying a few miles away from beautiful Lake Sainte-Croix. However, when staying for a longer period (specially in the lower season), a trip to Saint-Raphaël will allow you to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
