Discover France’s Most Beloved Villages

Explore enchanting places to visit in the French countryside and discover some of its most loved villages. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie boasts fairy-tale buildings set against blue skies and green landscapes. This Camino de Santiago stop ranks among France’s most beautiful villages.

France embraces competitions enthusiastically. This enthusiasm extends to the quaint places to visit in the French countryside. From Paris’s yearly baguette contest to agricultural fairs featuring cow beauty pageants, the country loves a good match-up. Even rural villages participate in “Le village préféré des Français,” a TV show hosted by journalist Stéphane Bern.

The public votes for their favourite among 14 candidates, each representing a French region. Choosing a winner proves challenging in a country renowned for picturesque villages. Nevertheless, the victorious village experiences a significant boost in tourism, though this can have drawbacks. To avoid crowds, plan visits during off-peak seasons rather than summer or May holidays. These villages showcase the best of the French countryside and offer unique experiences for visitors.

Below, Explore the Charming Winners From the Past 11 Years

Sancerre

Located in Centre-Val de Loire Region

1.5 Hours from Orléans

Sancerre, a medieval town atop a rocky outcrop, overlooks the Loire River. It’s one of the many picturesque spots in the French countryside worth exploring. The area produces crisp white wine, identically named, renowned throughout the Loire Valley. Vineyards stretch endlessly around the town, creating breathtaking views.

For a spectacular panorama, climb the Tour des Fiefs. The vista from the top is undeniably magnificent. Additionally, explore the village’s oldest house, the 15th-century Maison Jacques Cœur. This historic building formerly belonged to King Charles VII’s royal advisor, consequently offering a glimpse into France’s rich past.

Ploumanac’h

Located in Brittany Region

2 Hours from Rennes

Brittany’s Pink Granite Coast has long enchanted visitors. This stunning area exemplifies the diverse beauty of the French countryside. Powerful tides sculpt this shoreline, fashioning a landscape of striking boulders and sandy beaches. Amid this picturesque setting lies the quaint village port of Ploumanac’h.

Noteworthy sites include a lighthouse and a historic tide-powered mill. The island oratory, honouring Saint-Guirec, lends an air of mystery. This Welsh monk landed on the beach in the 7th century, subsequently achieving sainthood.

Vessels embark for the Sept-Îles archipelago, a vital bird haven. Henceforth, travellers can observe migrating puffins and northern gannets. Springtime and summer present optimal bird-watching conditions. Undeniably, Ploumanac’h melds natural splendour with rich heritage, rendering it a must-see destination.

Bergheim

Located in Alsace Region

40 Minutes from Strasbourg

Another gem in the French countryside, Bergheim’s flower-filled window boxes and pastel houses create a charming facade. Nonetheless, the village harbours a dark history. From 1582 to 1630, 40 women faced witchcraft accusations and execution by burning.

The Maison des Sorcières recounts the victims’ stories and trials. Presently, this Alsatian village resembles a movie set, encircled by medieval walls. A one-hour trail, “Circuit des remparts,” connects Bergheim’s nine towers.

Alternatively, an educational path meanders through vineyards. Both routes offer unique perspectives on the village’s complex past and picturesque present. Undoubtedly, Bergheim blends historical intrigue with visual appeal, making it a compelling destination for visitors.

Cordes-sur-Ciel

Located in Occitanie Region

1 Hour 15 Minutes from Toulouse

Cordes-sur-Ciel rises majestically above sun-drenched Occitan valleys. It’s a prime example of the breathtaking places to visit in the French countryside. This 13th-century hilltop village seemingly touches the clouds, explaining its 1993 name addition “sur ciel” (in heaven).

A fortified gate marks the entrance to steep, winding cobblestone lanes. These paths lead uphill, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views. Gothic houses, crafted from ochre sandstone, line the streets.

Artists and writers flock to this picturesque locale, with Albert Camus among its admirers. Artisan boutiques nestle between historic buildings, offering unique treasures. Undeniably, Cordes-sur-Ciel’s beauty surpasses mere photogenic charm, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Rochefort-en-Terre

Located in Brittany Region

1 Hour 20 Minutes from Rennes

Rochefort-en-Terre, located 20 miles inland, offers a distinctive glimpse of Brittany. This charming village is one of the many hidden treasures in the French countryside. This 12th-century village houses 700 residents.

The locale boasts deep-rooted history and lively cultural traditions. Undoubtedly, Rochefort-en-Terre presents a unique blend of heritage and vibrant community life.

American artist Alfred Klots arrived in the early 20th century, consequently restoring a ruined castle. In 1907, he initiated an annual window box competition. Thereafter, Rochefort transformed into a geranium-filled haven.

Renaissance houses, adorned with colourful blooms, contrast beautifully against granite facades. Additionally, the village’s Christmas illuminations draw visitors nationwide, marking a cultural highlight. Undoubtedly, Rochefort-en-Terre offers a delightful blend of history and floral beauty.

Kaysersberg

Located in Alsace Region

1 Hour from Strasbourg

For those seeking to experience the authentic French countryside, Kaysersberg, nestled along the Route des Vins, epitomizes Alsatian beauty. Stork nests perch atop colourful half-timbered houses, while vine-clad hillsides frame the River Weiss.

A strategic 13th-century castle, now in ruins, overlooks the town. Notably, Kaysersberg houses Le Chambard, a destination hotel-restaurant with a sombre connection to TV host Anthony Bourdain.

Chef Olivier Nasti operates two distinct dining experiences here. His Michelin two-starred establishment offers fine cuisine. Conversely, a casual winstub provides traditional brasserie fare. Undoubtedly, Kaysersberg blends picturesque scenery with culinary excellence, creating a memorable Alsatian experience.

Cassel

Located in Hauts-de-France Region

1 Hour from Lille

Cassel, a fortified hilltop village, boasts Iron Age origins. Indeed it’s one of the many historically rich places to visit in the French countryside. This strategic location has endured centuries of geopolitical conflict.

Initially a crossroads of Roman roads in ancient Gaul, Cassel faced Viking attacks in 880. Subsequently, it became a coveted 17th-century war prize between France and Spain.

Presently, Cassel offers immersion in Flemish culture near the Belgian border. Brick-gabled houses adorn the Grand’Place. Moreover, estaminets serve traditional dishes like carbonnade flamande, a beer-based beef stew.

The carnival brings spectacular street parades featuring papier-mâché, wood, and fabric “giants”. Undoubtedly, Cassel’s blend of history and tradition creates a unique cultural experience.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue

Located in Normandy Region

30 Minutes from Cherbourg

In this part of the French countryside, The Cotentin Peninsula looks like Ireland. Wind-blown moors fall over rocky cliffs into the English Channel. Barfleur, a fishing village, welcomes sailors to its big yacht marina.

This village has 2,000 people. It’s known for oysters. Equally important are the 17th-century towers. These are part of UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications.

Barfleur mixes sea life and history. Visitors can enjoy both in this special place. Undoubtedly, it offers a unique coastal experience.

Tatihou Island, accessible on foot during low tide, lies just offshore. Visitors can traverse oyster beds to reach this nearby attraction. Undoubtedly, Barfleur offers a unique blend of maritime heritage and natural beauty.

Hunspach

Located in Alsace Region

45 Minutes from Strasbourg

Hunspach, an Alsatian gem, secured the “favourite village” title during the COVID pandemic. This picturesque locale sits near the German border and the Vosges regional natural park.

The village centre, classified as a historic monument, exudes authenticity. Since medieval times, shutter colours on half-timbered houses have indicated artisans’ dwellings.

Kelsch, a traditional linen-cotton fabric, represents local craftsmanship. Visitors can find this unique textile at the Kelsch’ Idée boutique. Undoubtedly, Hunspach offers a captivating blend of history and artisanal tradition.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Located in Occitanie Region

30 Minutes from Cahors

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a honey-coloured village, sits high on a rocky cliff. The Lot River below also reflects its beautiful shape.

Old alleyways curve down the hill, with a 1500s Gothic church at the top. The village looks also much like it did in medieval times. It has 13 special old buildings, including the 1300s Maison Bordes and a 1200s hospital.

Since the early 1900s, many artists and writers have come here. André Breton, a surrealist poet, spent summers among the flowers. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie’s beauty still amazes visitors, showing France’s rich history.

Eguisheim

Located in Alsace Region

15 Minutes from Colmar

Eguisheim, a picturesque village, sits on Alsace’s famous Route des Vins. Traditional charm flows through its streets, lined with geranium-adorned, half-timbered houses.

This year marks the Wine Route’s 70th anniversary. Local winemakers have tended these lands for generations. Domaine Paul Schneider, a family-run winery, operates from a 1600s tithe barn.

Conversely, Domaine Emile Beyer has shared wine expertise since 1580, spanning 14 generations. Eguisheim undoubtedly offers a unique mix of visual beauty and rich winemaking history.

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