The Most Beautiful Villages of France

Discover the 176 most picturesque villages to visit in France in this official illustrated guidebook from the association that has passionately selected charming villages since 1982.

From the verdant village of Gargilesse-Dampierre favored by George Sand, to the picturesque Hunawihr along the wine trail, to the medieval town of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne nicknamed the “Riviera of the Limousin,” this illustrated guide unveils the beauty and diversity of rural France, providing complete visitor’s information for these exceptionally well-preserved destinations. Carefully selected annually, the French villages featured in this official guide are replete with historical, architectural, and natural riches.

A brief history of each village is accompanied by recommendations for monuments, museums, and other places to visit; accommodation options ranging from hotels to campsites; restaurants, markets, artisanal produce, and local specialties. Details on leisure activities encompass festivals, events, and excursions that encourage visitors to explore the surrounding area. This practical, authoritative, and accessible illustrated guide is completed with an overview map of France, QR code links to additional online resources, and an index.

About the Author

Stéphane Bern is a journalist for Le Figaro and a popular radio and television presenter. He is the author of several books including The Best Loved Villages of France; Luxembourg: History, Landscape, and Traditions; and Highland Living: Landscape, Style, and Traditions of Scotland. A specialist on nobility and royalty, he has received the Order of the British Empire, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and the Order of Grimaldi.

Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, founded in 1982, protects and promotes the heritage of villages rigorously selected for their patrimonial wealth and architectural quality. It pioneered an international federation of The Most Beautiful Villages in the World, committed to sustainable development and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage in Belgium, Quebec, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland, Russia, Lebanon, and China.