Porte du Riou: A Historic Gateway in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Discover the historic Porte du Riou in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a gateway to stunning landscapes and the charm of one of France's most beautiful villages.
The Porte du Riou, located in the enchanting village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, is a significant historical landmark that once served as a primary entrance to the village. Nestled beneath an imposing cliff face, this fortified gate offers a glimpse into the past, evoking a sense of medieval charm and providing a tangible connection to the area's rich heritage. Historically, the Porte du Riou was not only a point of entry but also a defensive structure, protecting the inhabitants from potential invaders. The gate is also known as 'Porte des Oules' because potters used to live in this area. Today, it stands as a testament to the village's enduring spirit and architectural legacy. Just outside the gate, visitors can find a beautiful little bridge and a small waterfall, adding to the scenic allure of the location. The area around the Porte du Riou provides access to walking trails, including one leading to the Cascade du Riou, a nearby waterfall. Exploring these trails offers opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the Verdon Natural Regional Park, in which Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is situated.
Local tips
- Take the path from Porte du Riou to Cascade du Riou for a scenic walk.
- Explore the old streets near Porte du Riou to discover local artisan shops.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
A brief summary to Porte du Riou
- Unnamed Road, 04360, 04360, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, FR
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, head towards the base of the cliffs. Follow the signs indicating the direction of Cascade du Riou or Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel; the Porte du Riou is located along this route. The walk is short, approximately 5-10 minutes, but involves a slight incline.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. A short taxi ride from the village center to Porte du Riou will cost approximately €9-€15. Taxi de l'Etoile offers transportation services in the area.
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Public Transport
From Marseille, take a train to Digne-les-Bains, then a local bus (line 40) to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. From the bus stop in Moustiers, it's about a 3 km walk or a short taxi ride to Porte du Riou. Bus fare is approximately €2.50.
