Sally & Ryan
Things To Do
![[Explore] Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie](https://images.zola.com/891a24cc-ec34-4fb9-bc47-5d1969d68ac5?h=150)
[Explore] Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Perched dramatically between two towering cliffs with a waterfall cascading through its center, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a jewel of Provence, famous for its faïence ceramics and designated as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The town’s history dates back to the 5th century, and it has been a haven for artists and craftsmen for centuries. Don’t miss the star suspended by a chain between the cliffs—a local legend says it was hung by a knight as a token of gratitude. Guests can climb to the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel for panoramic views, explore the charming streets lined with artisanal shops, or enjoy the peaceful streams and fountains fed by natural springs.
![[DO] Notre-Dame de Beauvoir](https://images.zola.com/9d13c58f-2979-405b-9a89-a8c04ad68bed?h=150)
[DO] Notre-Dame de Beauvoir
Get ready for a workout - it’s worth it! At the top of a 20 minute stair climb in the town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, you will find the historic church Notre Dame de Beauvoir. It’s a beautiful building, crafted into the mountain, built between the 12th and 16th century. Along the way you will also get beautiful views of the town and the gorge. Note: The cobblestone stairs can be very slippery coming down, so make sure to wear shoes with good tread.
![[DO] Musée de la Faïence](https://images.zola.com/4cca993c-127d-4037-8967-f78e20c6954a?h=150)
[DO] Musée de la Faïence
As a town renowned for its ceramic craftmanhip, you'll find many ceramic shops and ateliers. But don't miss the museum in town where you can learn the history of the craft.
![[Explore] Valensole Lavender Fields](https://images.zola.com/228d5e37-338c-4f8d-912a-eea585da3184?h=150)
[Explore] Valensole Lavender Fields
Take a drive through one of the world’s largest lavender fields. Just 15 minutes from the wedding venue, the charming 11th century village of Valensole is surrounded by 300 sq miles of breathtaking lavender. We’re lucky to be in Provence at the perfect time—lavender reaches full bloom at the end of June and lasts for just two short weeks before the harvest begins in mid-July. Whether you visit a local farm or simply cruise along the main road (D6), you’ll find yourself immersed in a sea of purple. Don’t forget to stop and admire the sunflower fields scattered along the way!
![[Explore] Provence Farmers Markets](https://images.zola.com/7fa92c76-264b-4233-a843-c48830195ded?h=150)
[Explore] Provence Farmers Markets
There are many delightful farmers markets that take place in different towns within a 10-60 minute drive of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Make sure to check out the link below to see which farmers' markets are on which dates. Farmers' markets we have been to and loved include the ones in Valensole, Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and Riez.
![[Explore] Gorges du Verdon](https://images.zola.com/362fc633-b686-439a-913b-d8ad67384dcc?h=150)
[Explore] Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," is a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the turquoise waters of the Verdon River. Stretching over 25 km, the canyon offers thrilling adventures like canyoning through its dramatic cliffs, kayaking in its serene waters, or hiking along trails like the famous Blanc-Martel route. On June 29th, we’ll be coordinating canyoning and aquatic hiking tours through this stunning landscape—be sure to RSVP if you’re interested in joining! For those exploring by car, there are several breathtaking viewpoints to stop and soak in the scenery, including the Pont du Galetas, where you can marvel at the Verdon River flowing into the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix. Other must-visit spots include the Point Sublime, offering panoramic views of the canyon, and the Balcons de la Mescla, where you can see the dramatic convergence of the Verdon and Artuby rivers.
![[Explore] Lac de Sainte-Croix](https://images.zola.com/473f5e9a-6668-4416-91c6-da677deee62c?h=150)
[Explore] Lac de Sainte-Croix
Lac de Sainte-Croix, a shimmering turquoise gem at the base of the Gorges du Verdon, is a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. On June 30th, our Welcome Lake Party will be hosted here. But if you'd like to spend more time at the lake, there are several beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing—ideal for soaking up the beauty of Provence.
![[Eat & Stay] Château de Trigance](https://images.zola.com/3c80a6fe-0e0a-444b-b255-05a6ae7d7db8?h=150)
[Eat & Stay] Château de Trigance
Ever wanted to dine in a medieval castle at the top of a hill? There’s no better option than Château de Trigance. Enjoy gastronomic dining, apperitifs, and an epic view on the panoramic terrace. If you have time, walk down to the quaint town of Trigance after your meal or stay overnight in one of the castle's 10 rooms. Booking opens in mid-Jan. Note: The château is a 1 hour drive from the monastery but you will drive through an epic highway with views of the Gorges du Verdon. Make sure to stop at Point Sublime for some photos or a hike along the way.
![[Explore] Castellane](https://images.zola.com/2155eafd-8e7b-46c5-90f2-138d850c30a1?h=150)
[Explore] Castellane
Castellane, a charming village on the other end of the Gorges du Verdon, is a 1-hour drive from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie along one of Provence’s most scenic routes. Many of the must-see stops, like the Balcons de la Mescla and Point Sublime, were mentioned earlier as highlights of the Gorges du Verdon, so this drive offers a chance to visit these stunning viewpoints. If you’re looking for a unique detour, the Château de Trigance, also previously mentioned, is en route (ish) and well worth a visit. Once in Castellane, explore its quaint cobblestone streets, climb to the Notre-Dame du Roc chapel for panoramic views, or soak in the charm of this historic village.
![[Do] Truffle Hunting](https://images.zola.com/bdbf044f-b37f-4631-a4eb-62d85ba78588?h=150)
[Do] Truffle Hunting
Truffle hunting at Les Pastras truffle farm is an unforgettable experience, located a 1.5-hour drive west of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. You’ll join knowledgeable guides and their adorable truffle-hunting dogs in the search for the coveted summer truffles. Along the way, you’ll learn about the fascinating drama of truffle hunting, discover how to identify high-quality truffles , and indulge in delicious truffle tastings. We will be coordinating a group to go truffle hunting on June 29, so make sure to RSVP if interested!
![[Eat] La Plancha Cuisine Au Feu De Bois](https://images.zola.com/9227242d-4873-436f-80a0-a74b9eae4675?h=150)
[Eat] La Plancha Cuisine Au Feu De Bois
One of our favourite restaurants in the area, La Plancha is located a 15 min drive from Moustiers near the lake. They have mouthwatering wood-fired steaks and meats and incredibly fresh salads and dishes with local ingredients and aperitifs.
![[Eat] L’Etoile Givrée - Artisan Glacier Fabricant](https://images.zola.com/e04dc2e3-46d4-49d6-9910-2cd8914372de?h=150)
[Eat] L’Etoile Givrée - Artisan Glacier Fabricant
There’s no better treat on a hot day than homemade gelato. Try one of their many unique artisan flavours and walk around Moustiers.
![[Eat & Stay] La Bastide de Moustiers - Hôtel & Restaurant](https://images.zola.com/dcb0ac71-7a9f-4294-86ef-6c2da0596655?h=150)
[Eat & Stay] La Bastide de Moustiers - Hôtel & Restaurant
Dine at a Michelin starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse a 15 min walk from Moustiers town centre. The menu offers à la carte or a lovely tasting menu.
![[Eat] La Grignotière chez Juliette et Léo](https://images.zola.com/84a75333-eebf-4129-bfd1-373e2953b4e1?h=150)
[Eat] La Grignotière chez Juliette et Léo
Enjoy an apéritif and a light meal on a lovely patio nestled in a garden olive trees, located right in Moustiers town center.
![[Eat] La Cantine](https://images.zola.com/7f86d9a9-e900-4b02-8320-0cbf0bbf57c6?h=150)
[Eat] La Cantine
Located in the heart of Moustiers, they have one of the best burgers you’ll ever have! If you’re not the burger type, you’ll also find a nice variety of comfort foods and French classics.
![[Eat] Café des Arts](https://images.zola.com/85aa3780-9ca1-4be2-b6ed-fcb6555df36e?h=150)
[Eat] Café des Arts
Light appetizers and a Provençal lunch on a cute patio overlooking the beautiful town of Puimoisson, only a 10 min drive from the wedding venue.