Summary
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
France is filled with scenic villages, each with its own charm and character. The association known as Les Plus Beaux Villages de France was initiated in 1981 by the mayor of Collonges-la-Rouge, Charles Ceyrac. During the 1980s, rural France experienced a youth exodus to urban areas, prompting efforts to boost tourism and preserve the beauty of the countryside. Consequently, the official establishment of this association took place in March 1982.
As of today, there are 157 recognized villages across 21 regions and 69 departments. Villages interested in joining must meet certain criteria. Two main requirements include a population cap of 2,000 inhabitants and the presence of at least two protected sites or monuments, posing a challenge for many smaller communities.
Locating the Villages
Finding these picturesque villages is quite straightforward, as the official website provides listings by department. Therefore, if you are heading to an unfamiliar area of France, it’s advisable to consult this resource for nearby locations.
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France website.
A helpful map illustrates the positions of all the villages.
Villages by Region
Alsace-Lorraine
Riquewihr, Haute-Rhin is a charming medieval village with origins dating back to the 15th century, situated along the renowned Alsatian wine route, nestled within the Vosges mountains.
Atlantic Coast
Vouvant, located in the Vendée region, is positioned just north of the marshy Marais Poitevin and near the famous theme park, Le Puy du Fou. This village was voted the 8th most popular in France and boasts whitewashed houses alongside an 11th-century Romanesque church.
Auvergne
Arlempdes, situated in Haute-Loire, is a stunning village perched upon a volcanic peak overlooking the majestic Loire River. Nearby, Conques in Aveyron stands out not only for its beauty but also as a Grand Site de France. Once a significant stop for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela, Conques is now famous for its half-timbered houses, the historic St Foy church, and the remarkable golden statue of Sainte Foy.
Brittany
Locronan, located in Finistère, is named after Saint Ronan, the 10th-century hermit. This granite village features Renaissance houses and a 15th-century church that flourished with sailmakers during the 16th century.
Burgundy
Vézelay, a village that dominates the surrounding landscape, attracts pilgrims heading to Spain and is recognized for its stunning Romanesque basilica.
Corsica
Corsica is home to two recognized villages. Sant’Antonino near Calvi is nearly 500 meters high and features ancient passageways along with remarkable views from the remnants of an old castle. Piana overlooks the Golfe de Porto and is situated near a rocky inlet recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Jura
Château-Chalon in Franche-Comté is perched on a cliff along the Routes des Vins du Jura. This village is notable for being the first to produce the unique Jura vin jaune, crafted from late-harvest grapes.
Loire Valley
Montrésor, located in Indre et Loire, is about 31 miles southeast of Tours. The village is characterized by Renaissance houses and a château dating back to the 11th century.
Mediterranean
Explore Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert in eastern Languedoc, known for its magnificent Romanesque Abbaye de Gelone from the 10th to 12th centuries. The abbey is located in a charming square surrounded by historic houses. Additionally, Sainte-Agnès offers striking views from its elevated spot in the Alpes Maritimes.
Normandy
Barfleur, considered one of the prettiest fishing villages on the north coast, is rooted on the Cotentin Peninsula. It was once the leading port in Normandy during the Middle Ages, drawing visitors due to its proximity to the Normandy D-Day Landing beaches.
Périgord, Dordogne
The Les Plus Beaux Villages association originated in Collonges-la-Rouge, where red-hued houses and historic buildings contrast beautifully against the winding streets. Nearby, La Roque Gageac sits along the Dordogne river, where visitors can enjoy traditional boat rides while learning about the region’s rich heritage.
Provence
Moustiers-Saintes-Marie, nestled in the Alpes de Haute Provence, is renowned for its unique architecture set against a rocky backdrop. During summer, visitors flock here for its famous pottery, crafted by local artisans. Close to Lac de Sainte-Croix and Gorges du Verdon, this village captivates many. Seillans, a fortified hilltop village in the Var, features narrow streets leading to vibrant restaurants, perfect for refreshing summer visitors.
Pyrénées
The historical village of La Bastide Clairence in the Pyrénées Atlantiques was established by Louis of Navarre, who later became King of France.
Rhone Valley
Saint-Antoine-l’Abbaye, situated near Romans-sur-Isère, is famed for its Gothic abbey built between the 12th and 15th centuries. The abbey’s grounds highlight the village’s rich history as a previous stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Today, visitors enjoy exploring its charming half-timbered houses and market.
Events and Activities
The organization regularly hosts events, including La Route des Villages, which spans from Paris to Cannes. This event is managed by 4 roues sous une parapluie (4 wheels under an umbrella), typically involving classic 2CV vehicles. Scheduled for May 10th to 17th, 2015, the event allows 30 to 80 participants to enjoy a fun-filled journey through these remarkable villages.
