The Canyon of Verdon and Moustiers
Manosque, Valensole and Riez, Moustiers Sainte Marie
The deep cliff of the Gorges du Verdon is unique in Europe, we invite you to discover this area of spectacular natural beauty. You will stop in Manosque where your driver will introduce you to the famous this charming little city where Giono passed his life. You will then drive through “the Plateau de Valensole”, lavender fields and Amanda trees offer unbelievable scenery. After passing through Valensole village and Riez, two authentic places with a lot of history, you will arrive in the medieval town of Moustiers Sainte Marie. There you will see the village and his culture around faïence. Walk around this original shop and producers and enjoy this peaceful atmosphere.Download the itinerary: The Canyon of Verdon and Moustiers
Manosque
Jean Giono, famous French poet, consecrated all his work to his native land. It is one of those cities of Provence that has known how to preserve its charm by restoring the old quarters and pedestrian streets. The old city, in the shape of a pear, has pretty little squares lined with lovely houses. While strolling about Manosque you will discover a city of a long and interesting past where each epoch has left its imprint and its style.
Valensole and Riez
Valensole is situated in the middle of a magnificent plateau of lavender and almond trees. Valensole comes from the Latin "vallis" and "solis" meaning the valley of sun. Founded in the first century, Riez is the most ancient site of the area, called Riez la Romaine. Its rich past can be appreciated by visiting its ruins which include from Gallo- Roman, medieval and to the Renaissance style.
Moustiers Sainte Marie
Located at the entrance to the Verdon Canyons, Moustiers Ste. Marie is a first rate place for earthenware tiles. Having 16 workshops and 30 sales outlets of earthenware tiles, Moustiers is the leading area for this craft in France and has a world wide reputation. Moustiers is one of the most attractive spots of the Emerald Valley. At each season Moustiers offers wonderful walks either in the heart of the village or in the outskirts.
Recommendations
Gastronomic restaurants
La Bastide de Moustiers
17th century house in the green setting of its own kitchen garden, on the edge of the village and at the mouth of the Verdon gorges. Owned by Mr Ducasse.
Best Quality/Price ratio restaurant
Les Santons in Moustiers
At the footstep of the cliffs, this is a traditionnal restaurant with a nice room and a terrace that smells the Provencal sun.
Suggestion for your day
A drive along the canyon
This immense and magnificent canyon straddles the departments. The gigantic cliffs of calcareous rock are the result of the erosion of the Verdon River. In the midst of a nature reserve, rich in flora and fauna, the scenery here is astonishing. Never really discovered until the beginning of the century, the Verdon Gorges have since then fascinated innumerable visitors, there is no doubt that the sight is imposing!
