Walking the trail that climbs from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie toward the rims of the Verdon Gorge is an immersion in Provence’s rugged character, where every step negotiates with steep limestone walls and slender forest paths. The trail stretches roughly 7 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain near 350 meters, demanding steady footing on rocky, often uneven terrain. It challenges you to match pace with a canyon fiercely etched by the Verdon River, which dares you forward beneath its whispering cliffs.

Starting at the village center, the trail quickly escapes the charming streets and ascends into shaded pine groves that filter in shards of sunlight. The air vibrates with the scent of resin and wild thyme, nature asserting itself here as much as the stone. Midway, a quiet plateau offers a breath—watch the scrub oak seeming to brace against the canyon winds. The views begin to widen, revealing the gorge’s famed turquoise waters, their currents pushing insistently below.

As you reach the higher points, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie comes into full view, its iconic golden star suspended mid-air between cliffs above the village’s ochre rooftops. This star, a centuries-old emblem tied to knightly legend, marks the village as both a gateway and guardian to the Gorge. The panorama extends far and wide, demanding a pause to let the vastness settle in.

Practical considerations make the difference between a good hike and a great one. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with solid grip; the rocky trail surface shifts and challenges ankles familiar only with flat terrain. Carry 1 to 1.5 liters of water depending on season. Early mornings or late afternoons from May through September offer ideal light and cooler temperatures, avoiding both midday heat and tourist crowds. Pack a light jacket as winds can sharpen unexpectedly near the cliffs.

Navigating this trail is a dance with a landscape that commands respect, not conquest. The trail itself is marked, but limited signage demands attention to map or GPS. Keep to marked paths to minimize erosion and protect native flora. Those venturing here will find rich rewards: a mosaic of views, fresh scents of the Mediterranean scrub, and that singular moment when stone, sky, and river converge beneath the star.

This hike offers more than vistas. It stirs a connection to Provence’s wild heart and cultural roots, letting you step through history on paths carved by nature’s patient hand. The journey isn’t just a walk—it’s an invitation to meet the Gorge fiercely itself.