A rainy day, an afternoon too hot for hiking, or simply the desire to understand this fascinating territory in another way than by exploring it on foot — the museums of the Gorges du Verdon offer a welcome cultural respite. Secular craftsmanship, exceptional pottery, local prehistory: four remarkable museums are all found within less than 40 minutes of the village of Aiguines, and fit perfectly into a stay at the Verdon. Also consult our practical tips for your stay to best organize your days.
Aiguines Museum of Woodturners — Verdon craftsmanship in heritage
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Located in the heart of the village of Aiguines, this unique museum in France is entirely dedicated to the art of woodturning, a craft tradition that made the village's reputation for several centuries. Aiguines woodturners were renowned throughout Europe for their pieces in boxwood and fruitwood — rosaries, balls, decorative objects — exported to South America.
On-site, you can admire an impressive collection of old and contemporary pieces, observe the tools of the traditional workshop, and understand the technical gestures that are passed down from generation to generation. A real treat for craft lovers and families with children.
- Season: open May to September (check before visit)
- Admission: free or voluntary contribution
- Tip: combine with a stroll through the village and a view of the Lake Sainte-Croix from the castle viewpoint
Pottery Museum in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie — the art of fire 20 minutes away
Just 20 minutes from Aiguines, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France and the birthplace of renowned pottery since the seventeenth century. Its municipal museum, installed in a former chapel, traces the history of this art of fire through a collection of exceptional pieces covering three centuries of local production.
Art history lovers and ceramic enthusiasts will be delighted. Children, meanwhile, will appreciate the playful explanations of the manufacturing steps — from clay to glazing. Ideal for a half-day, before or after a visit to the village and its flowering streets.
- Season: open April to October; hours vary by season
- Admission: approximately 3 to 5 € per adult; free for under 12
- Tip: plan a minimum of one hour, then stroll through the pottery workshops of the village to compare old and contemporary styles
Terra Rossa Museum in Salernes — Provençal earthenware in the spotlight
About 35 minutes from Aiguines, Salernes is the French capital of tomette — the small hexagonal terracotta tile emblematic of Provençal homes. The Terra Rossa museum pays tribute to this pottery tradition with a collection covering the history of local ceramics from antiquity to contemporary creations.
An ideal address for those curious about industrial history and regional craftsmanship. On certain days, demonstrations of turning or glazing are organized — check the schedule before visiting. A perfect stop to combine with activities in the Gorges du Verdon for a full day.
- Season: open year-round (occasional closures, check)
- Admission: paid entry, approximately 4 to 6 € per adult
- Tip: the pottery shops of Salernes are also worth visiting just after the tour
Museum of Prehistory of the Gorges du Verdon in Quinson — one million years of history
It is the most ambitious museum in the region, and undoubtedly one of the most remarkable in all of Provence. Located in Quinson, about 40 minutes from Aiguines, this museum designed by architect Norman Foster houses one of Europe's most important prehistoric collections — shaped tools, bones, reconstructions of Paleolithic to Neolithic life scenes.
To understand why the Gorges du Verdon have fascinated man since the dawn of time, this is where you must come. The archaeological site of Baume Bonne, accessible on foot from the museum, even allows you to approach an authentic prehistoric cave. Plan a minimum of half a day.
- Season: open mid-February to late November; closed Tuesdays off-season
- Admission: approximately 8 € per adult, family reduced rate available
- Tip: must-see with children from age 8 — the educational workshops are excellent
Charming house (6 pers., 3 bedrooms, ground floor, 110m² with spacious living area) with panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix. Quiet, 2 min walk from the village centre. Preserved nature & ideal base for outdoor activities and tourism.
