The charming villages of France are worth a visit for their set alone. These idyllic oases of rural beauty are surrounded by stunning landscapes, whether they rise to steep rocky outcrops. They are like portals to the past. They combine charming medieval architecture with lots of cultural intrigues and a bit of Je sais quo, creating a fascinating journey through France in times gone by.
You can now daydream about a rural escape in your heart and pack for a trip to Hexagon. These are some of the most picturesque villages in France, from the hilltop hamlets and half-timbered stunners in Normandy to the charming Provence hamlets.
Eguisheim, Haut-Rhin
The picturesque village of Eguisheim, on the Alsatian Wine Route, is surrounded by rolling vine-carpeted hills. The narrow streets are lined with half-timbered houses in colourful colours. Pretty floral blossoms wrap around the castle like a snail’s shell. Pointed gables, tithe courts and historic fountains complete the fairytale atmosphere.
Beynac-et-Cazenac, Dordogne
Beynac-et-Cazenac, a cluster of ochre-stone houses nestled in the River Dordogne cliffs, is an exploration delight. It also features narrow lanes and charming homes. The 12th-century Chateau De Beynac dominates the village and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
Kerhinet, Loire-Atlantique
The kernel is a charming little village of 18 thatched-roofed cottages in the Loire Valley. It’s like going back in time. The Briere Regional Nature Park has lovingly restored the pedestrian village. Here visitors can enjoy the region’s traditional architecture, learn more about its rich fauna and flora, and shop for local products like honey, pate and jewellery.
Yvoire, Haute-Savoie
Yvoire is a Les Plus Beaux Villages de France member, which means “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”. It attracts thousands of tourists every summer because of its beautiful flower-bedecked streets as well as the stunning Garden of Five Senses. Its fortified historical centre is filled with medieval treasures. Winding cobblestone streets lead to Lake Geneva’s serene shores, where fishing boats glide gently in the water.
La Roque-Gageac, Dordogne
The peculiar village of La Roque-Gageac lies between limestone crags that tower over the river Dordogne. It is also home to a bizarre exotic garden with bamboos, agaves and fig trees. You will also find exquisite chateaux, typical honey-coloured houses with Lauze roofings, and cobbled labyrinthine streets.
Moustiers Sainte-Marie, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Moustiers Sainte-Marie is a place to find old-world Provencal charm set in a dramatic setting. The village is nestled between two rocky slopes in the Verdon Regional Park. It’s a great base to explore Europe’s Grand Canyon and the Valensole lavender fields. But it’s also worth a visit on its own.
You’ll find amazing ceramic workshops, beautiful medieval churches, and delicious eateries as you wander through the narrow streets of stone.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie Lot
The terracotta-tiled Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, which cascades down a cliff high above River Lot, is more than a pretty face. The village is rich in heritage and history, yet it has retained its charm and character. You will find charming paved streets to walk along, beautiful flowery terraces to admire the view, and fascinating Gothic facades and fortified gates. There are also art galleries and art galleries to explore.
Menerbes, Vaucluse
Menerbes, like many villages in Provence, is best discovered by walking its cobbled streets. They are surrounded by 16th and 17th-century architecture and have beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. This perched village stands proudly on a narrow mountain crest at 230m above sea level and is perhaps the most famous Luberon’s. Its popularity can be attributed to Peter Mayle, a British author who lived here and wrote A Year in Provence.
Collonges-La-Rouge, Correze
This charming hamlet in Correze has whimsical conical turrets and adorable little lanes. There are also climbing vines that decorate the walls. It is the stuff of medieval French fairytales. Collonges-La-Rouge’s name refers to the distinctive rusty-red colour its houses are made from iron-rich sandstone. There are many photogenic and charming corners around the village. The village is home to many delicious restaurants and charming craft boutiques that sell locally made products.