Riez: between Roman remains and the natural treasures of the Verdon

Welcome to Riez, a former episcopal capital and gateway to the Verdon Regional Natural Park. The unique light of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region enhances every façade, inviting you to enjoy a timeless stroll. If you are staying at our camping site in the Verdon, discovering this town, located just 35 km away, is a must. Let yourself be guided through the centuries of this historic town in the south-east of France.

• A former Gallo-Roman city, Riez blends ancient remains with Provençal charm.
• Discover its monuments: Roman columns, the early Christian baptistery, the Hôtel de Mazan and the Saint-Maxime Chapel.
• Enjoy panoramic views over the Valensole Plateau and go hiking on the Millarettes Plateau.
• Wander through its Provençal market, rich in local produce: olive oil, honey, cheeses, wines.
• Take part in its many festivals and taste the local gastronomy.

What is the historical importance of the town of Riez? Its status is exceptional. Even before the Middle Ages, Riez was a powerful city. Its Gallo-Roman past still shapes its heritage today.

The most striking testimony to the splendour of Roman Riez, these four columns are truly impressive. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1840, they stand in situ in a meadow. These monolithic grey granite remains, rising to nearly 5.90 metres, are topped with Corinthian capitals.

Visit the exterior of the Hôtel de Mazan, located on the Grand Rue. This private mansion, built in 1517, is renowned for its staircase and decorative plasterwork. It is listed as a historic monument.

In the heart of Riez, do not miss the Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. Construction began around 1490 under the guidance of Bishop Marc de Tende and was reportedly built using stones from the former Roman cathedral. Despite a partial collapse in the 19th century, the church was carefully rebuilt and retains all its Gothic charm. Inside, take time to admire the Pietà by Botinelly.

The Saint-Maxime Chapel

Climb up to the Saint-Maxime Hill. At the top, the Saint-Maxime Chapel, built in the 17th century on the site of a former cathedral, watches over the village. The view is breathtaking, and the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary seems to bless the entire Valensole Plateau. The site is still inhabited by Poor Clare nuns.

One of Riez’s greatest assets is its strategic location. The town lies at the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, offering easy access to a wide variety of landscapes in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, such as the Verdon Gorges and the nearby Valensole Plateau.

You will find many hiking trails in and around the town. We recommend a loop of around 10 km (approximately 3 hours), starting from the Pré-de-foire car park in Riez. You will cross lavender fields and olive groves before gradually climbing to an altitude of 633 metres on the Millarettes Plateau. This route, classified as an “easy hike”, has an elevation gain of 242 metres.

For cycling enthusiasts, Riez is an excellent starting point for marked cycling routes. The terrain is varied and smooth, ideal for a ride towards Valensole. We recommend Route 4 from the FFC Provence Verdon mountain bike area, a moderately difficult 15 km circuit.

The vibrant soul of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence truly comes alive in Riez’s market squares and local life.

The market is the beating heart of Riez. It is a must-see event on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. Colourful stalls line the Louis Gardiol Promenade. You will find cold-pressed olive oil, lavender honey, goat cheeses and sun-kissed wines from the Verdon. The air is filled with the intoxicating scents of thyme, rosemary and Provençal spices. These markets are where you will make your best discoveries, meeting producers directly.

The rhythm of festivals and traditions in Riez will likely give you the chance to attend one of these events:

• In mid-June, enjoy the Olive Festival, followed at the end of the month by the Transhumance Festival.
• Discover local flavours at the Honey and Lavender Festival in mid-July, a day dedicated to producers, activities and the scents of the Verdon.
• On the last Sunday of July, the town comes alive with the Vintage Machinery Festival.
• Book lovers should not miss the Book Fair, held on the first weekend of August.
• Funfairs take place during the Pentecost weekend and around 15 August.

A visit to the town of Riez would not be complete without a culinary experience.

After a morning at the market or a hike, comfort is well deserved. Riez offers many small restaurants and bistros that showcase traditional cuisine.

Choose places that cook exclusively with fresh, local and seasonal products. La table du Vieux-Riez, for example, serves dishes rooted in the terroir of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.

Planning your tastings according to the agricultural calendar is the key to a successful experience in Riez.

Seasonality is essential: lavender influences honeys and liqueurs in summer, while winter highlights the powerful flavour of the truffle. The Truffle Festival usually takes place on the first weekend of February.

Tempted to discover the history, refined architecture and nature of Riez? Book your stay in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence at our 3-star campsite L’Oasis du Verdon. Our campsite with a swimming pool is the perfect base to explore Riez, as well as the Verdon Gorges, Sillans-la-Cascade and Villecroze.