The 12 most beautiful villages in France

France, a transcontinental country of the European Union and known to all, is the most visited tourist destination in the world. More than 89.4 million travelers were enchanted by their territories in 2019, and the trend (not counting the current pandemic situation) has not stopped rising in recent years. It is not for less: if we look only at fortifications in the form of castles, this country has at least 40,000 historical buildings.

Beyond the historical footprint of this region, France has something to offer for all the restless. For example, without going any further, French gastronomy as a general concept was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2010. In addition to this, 33% of the surface of this political territory belongs to a natural park. Whether you are a fan of history, food or biology, the most emblematic destinations in France will not leave you indifferent.

We could count the benefits of this country for hours and hours and we would not end, then, with more than 64,979,000 inhabitants, 35,498 municipalities and 61 urban units,

France stands out for its beauty, history, gastronomy, landscapes and multiculturalism. Today we present the 12 most beautiful villages in France: don't miss the opportunity to discover the most beautiful nooks and crannies of this European landmark.

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What are the most beautiful villages in France?

As we have said before, we are going to try to cover “a little bit of everything”. We could focus solely on the historical baggage of the region (which is a lot), but we understand that the Tourism is conceived differently for each person and that, without a doubt, there are as many tastes as individuals in the Planet.

Next, we show you the 12 most beautiful towns in France, understanding the diversity and variety of tourist options as beauty. Go for it.

1. Gordes

Gordes is a commune located in the department of Vaucluse and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Raised on a rock and hung on a promontory, Gordes offers the typical picture of "postcard town". It has been listed multiple times as one of the most beautiful villages in France and, as such, many artists and celebrities have been attracted and have made this place their definitive residence.

Among all the tourist attractions that Gordes offers, some of the most striking are the church, the Abbey de Sénanque, the Museum of Glass and Stained Glass, the Cellars of the Palace of Saint Firmi and, without a doubt, the Castle of Gordes. Erected in 1031 and rebuilt in 1525, this fort represents medieval architecture and will delight fans of history.

2. Eguisheim

Eguisheim, located in the Alsace region, was the birthplace of Pope Leo IX. In addition to its historical component, the region is also well known for its wine production, so it is part of the routes of the most expert winemakers in the field.

This is one of the towns that, without a doubt, will transport you to a past time, almost fabled. Around a castle erected in the 8th century, its streets began to be built in the shape of a ring, which is why it presents such a magical and atypical round distribution. The low houses, the vine-filled balconies and the cobbled hallways create an image fresh out of a fairy tale. Whatever your tastes, you can't miss this place.

3. Locronan

Locronan is a town located in the Brittany region (Finistere department). It is a religious center of Celtic origin, so its architecture and history is eminently sacred. The Church of Saint-Ronan and the attached chapel of Pénity prove this, as they have beautiful stained glass windows full of historical motifs of a religious nature.

4. Saignon

Saignon is a French town and commune, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This is one of those destinations that a foodie cannot miss, as Saignon is especially known for its viticulture and the production of lavender, honey and truffles, among other edible products.

In addition to flavors and smells (of which the landscape is tinged with aromatic herbs during spring), this town is famous for its old streets, a preserved historical heritage and a series of beautiful panoramas without comparison. The Abbey of San Eusebio or the Church of San Miguel are destinations that you cannot miss if you decide to visit Saignon.

5. Beynac-et-Cazenac

We change places, as we move to a French town and commune in the administrative region of Aquitaine. The village is classified with the quality seal of Les plus beaux villages de France, translated into our language, one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Its main attraction is the castle built in the 12th century, one of the best preserved and most authentic in the region, featuring stunning views of the valley of the 5 castles and the Dordogne river. In addition to this emblematic and historical place, the town has a strong custom rooted in agriculture, hemp cultivation and the construction industry (stone and wood).

6. Barfleur

The first coastal city on the list. Barfleur is a small fishing port, one of the most picturesque in the province of La Manche. Here you can taste the famous mussels that receive the name of the region, caught on the high seas.

You will go to this town for the seafood, but you will stay for the granite houses, the small restaurants in the port, the sea breeze, the typical church and the beautiful general maritime scene. After tasting the delicacies of the town, you cannot miss the Gatteville lighthouse, the second highest in all of France.

7. Pujols

Pujols is a French town and commune, located in the New Aquitaine region. If something defines this population nucleus, it is its marked character, since preserves an exceptional medieval nature heritage.

The churches it presents, the emblematic Castle and its fortified gates are examples of this. The general wood stain, shady streets and old buildings give this small town the status of a true medieval gem. In addition, in Pujols you will find the Malbentre pool, a perfect spa area to recharge your batteries after a historical tour.

8. Pesmes

Pesmes is another of those villages included in Les plus beaux villages de France. In addition to the remains of its medieval walls (built in the 13th century), highlights the Saint-Hilaire church, which was built in the middle of the 12th century. This town is markedly characterized by its predominantly Romanesque architecture, but also largely influenced by Gothic additions.

9. Turenne

Turenne is a French town and commune located in the Corrèze department, in the Limousin region. It is located on top of a hill, surrounded by green meadows and forests, with a beautiful castle guarding the houses that were built on the hillside. Undoubtedly, we are facing a beautiful architectural complex loaded with historical value.

10. Rodemack

Rodemack, located in the Lorraine region, is the greatest exponent of medieval memory that can be found in all of France. 700 meters of 15th century wall surround this town, which contains in its nucleus the Officers' Pavilion, built on the remains of the old feudal castle and named a Historical Monument.

As if this were not enough, in Rodemack a medieval festival is held every summer that changes its image completely. Its streets and the interior of the pavilion make the perfect setting to host street shows, cavalry displays, and a market for medieval products.

11. Savoy

We do not forget those interested in nature and ecology. Savoy is a French department located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Beyond buildings and history, this place stands out for its natural heritage: here is the La Vanoise National Park.

This park has 53,000 hectares inhabited by 1,200 plant species (106 of them protected). In addition, it is populated by the emblematic ibex, also known as wild goats of the alps. In terms of fauna, there are also a small number of pairs of golden eagles and bearded vultures, majestic birds of prey that can not be seen almost anywhere else.

12. Lyons-la-Forêt

Located in the heart of the Lyon National Forest, Lyons-la-Forêt is also considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. This town has some 11,000 hectares of forest, full of hiking trails, spaces for relaxation and pristine forests. Undoubtedly, the most fans of mountaineering and exercise should visit this place.

Resume

What did you think of this list? We have tried to gather characteristics that will not leave anyone indifferent: food, wine, nature, history, markets and shows. Do you need anything else to pack your bags and visit the most touristic country in the world?

If, despite the variety offered, none of the destinations have convinced you at all, don't worry. In the bibliographic references you can find a list of the most beautiful villages in France and, in addition, the aforementioned website will allow you to filter the destinations based on your tastes and interests.