The 11 most beautiful medieval villages in France

Are you looking for a safe destination to visit for the summer of 2020? By car Simone, discover the charm of the 7 most beautiful medieval villages in France.

Browse the country to discover medieval villages in France, all more amazing than others. L’ Occitania , New Aquitaine , Brittany and many other regions are full of yet unexplored lands. So, climb into your time machine and drive for the Middle Ages. In addition to creating unforgettable memories and resting, you will enrich your knowledge of the history of France. How can I resist?

1. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

Located at the foot of the Larzac Plateau, this destination was awarded the prestigious "Grand Site de France" label in 2010. And for cause! You will discover picturesque alleys with breathtaking breath and artisanal boutiques that only await you.

In addition, this place is well known to hikers. Forty-nine paths and walking routes go through this beautiful medieval city. Download the circuit board on the official website of the tourist office before leaving. Moreover, everything is on foot in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. To access it, park on the parking lot bridge of the Devil . From there, enjoy free shuttles to get there (in high season).

To visit: on the way back, cross the Anges Bridge to reach the Devil Bridge. You will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Gorges de l’Hérault . Rent canoes, paddles or simply dip. In July and August, bathing is monitored.

2. Collonges-la-Rouge

Nestled only 20 kilometers from Brive-la-Gaillarde, it is the most atypical of medieval villages in France. For the little story, it is his former mayor Charles Ceyrac who had the idea of this label in 1982. His goal? Valorize the charming local villages.

Collonges-la-Rouge is an architectural ruby. With its fortified towers and red stone walls, you will have as a sensation of never seen. Where does this unusual color come from? Iron oxidation between Brive and Meyssac. Château de Vassignac, chapel of the Pénitents, Castel de Maussac: your eyes will no longer be anywhere.

Finally, take a tour of the Siren house to investigate the rich past of the village. Built in the 16th century, it houses a museum of popular art and traditions. History lovers, discover his beautiful collection of fossils and traditional objects on the first floor.

Farniente tip: enjoy a fresh drink on a terrace. Then, let yourself be spelled out by outdoor street shows at the end of the day. Theatrical performances are played every Tuesday at 9:30 pm on the Place du Lavoir.

3. Moncontour

Before Brittany joined France in 1514, Montcontour was one of the strong places in the region. Medieval city par excellence, it produced canvases of linen and hemp. Walk in its middle-aged alleys and admire its ramparts before making a hedge tower. A unique experience that will marvel at small and large.

At the end of the day, enjoy it to try the cuisine bretonne and its iodine flavours. Consume shellfish, crustaceans and ultra fresh fish without moderation. In addition to being good for health, they will delight the fine palate. For the gourmets, finish your meal with a sweet crêpe. But... is it really necessary to recommend it?

To be seen absolutely: the church of Saint-Mathurin. Enter it to discover its six windows built in the 16th century. These are one of the most beautiful sets of glass painting in Brittany. A vision that leaves no marble.

4. Conquests

This green village located in Aveyron is a small corner of paradise. As soon as you arrive on the scene, you will be subjugated by the surrounding charm. It is located at the foot of the Dourdou River in the region Occitania . Its paved alleys and shaded houses will carry you directly to the Middle Ages. The local residents will tell you, this place has a thousand treasures.

Also, don't miss his abbey church. This masterpiece of the Romanesque art of southern France has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. If you have not yet gone to the conquest of Conques, it is high time to get on the way! And if you are passing for several days, opt for an unusual home. At the Duzou farm, floating huts or perched in the trees will provide you with unforgettable sensations.

Culture point: explore the alleys of Conques in search of public fountains. Built in the Romanesque era, they allowed the pilgrims of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle to desaltify themselves. Today, they bring authenticity to the city.

5. Eleven

This vulture nest perched at 429 meters above the sea surprises with its beauty. Listen to the cicadas singing or enjoy a pleasant shaded beach. Admire the pink facades of the villas during a walk on the heights of the city. Thanks to its microclimate, the place has aphrodisiac plants with fantastic colors. A whole, which makes Eze one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France.

To understand the traditions of this town and to observe its plants, a break in the exotic garden is required. Échinocactus, figuier de Barbarie, Neobuxbaunia... Explore the thematic course of this botanical garden and discover its fifteen female sculptures on earth. The church Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption and the Chapel of the White Pénitents are to be visited.

Finally, go to the Galimard perfumery at the gates of the village. This museum is a subsidiary of its parent house located in Grasse . His staff is very friendly and his free visit very interesting. Soap and cosmetics are local specialties. Another advantage, their products are sold at factory prices. Liez l’utile à l’agréable is always a source of pleasure!

Zen tip: walk in this village with old stones and side streets early in the morning and late in the evening. In addition to seeing the place change, you will avoid tourists in the day. When swinging, don’t hesitate to deviate from the main aisle. Without too much effort, you will fall on views to fall on the ground...

6. Provins

If you live in the Paris region or in the north of France, you do not need to go so far to discover one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France. Provins, located half-distance between Paris and Troyes, has a unique medieval atmosphere.

Start your visit by the Caesar Tower, an emblematic monument of the city. This majestic dungeon enjoys a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding fields. Between heaven and earth or through the water, a wide range of activities will complement your stay in wonder. Hiking, trailing, ULM, fishing or water skiing: the sources of pleasure for athletes and lovers of strong sensations are endless.

Looking for memories? Flip through the paved streets to meet local artisans and regional creators. Buy original clothes and items not like others. You can even go back with a home-made medieval costume. So many ingredients that will make your holiday unforgettable.

7. Peru

From Lyon , you will only have half an hour’s drive to explore this ancient city of weavers. This beautiful flowery destination is surrounded by a double walled enclosure. Once crossed, time stops. Hosts, poppies and calligraphers will welcome you warmly.

In June, you may meet knights and princesses at the medieval feast. These ancient characters love to have fun. However, it is not easy to access the city centre. Garage on the nearby parking lot before continuing your walk to the tourist office. There you will be given a thousand and an information about the medieval and preserved character of Peruges.

Not to be missed: the region's gourmet specialty. The pebble of nature Peruges or pralines has made happy. You can go with your eyes closed!

8. Pujols

Between fortified doors and remains of the walls of his castle, Pujols is full of architectural elements evoking medieval times. Perched on the heights of Villeneuve-sur-Lot and not far from Bordeaux, this village will appeal to history lovers.

Before you go on a trip, go to the tourist office. There, the guides will tell you many secrets. And to relax at the end of the day, go to the water centre of Malbentre. A hammam, massage showers and a wild river await you.

Finally and to finish your stay in beauty, visit the Rustic Toy House for free. You can admire many wooden objects presented by very warm people.

9. Limeuil

Real archetype of the medieval city, Limeuil is one of the most beautiful French villages. Latrines, andronnes and old echoppes will spare you in just a few minutes. Walk through the steep streets of the village to contemplate its beautiful stone houses.

Then stop at the panoramic gardens of Limeuil. In addition to being magnificent, they offer a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. You can't miss this! As a bonus, escape games are offered to discover gardens in a playful and instructive way. This activity is ideal, whether you go with family or friends.

10. Yvoire

This unique fortified village is bordering Lake Geneva. Whether you’re French or Swiss, this town with a very special soul will inspire you. Medieval city par excellence, this place is actually a former fishing village. If you want to visit this incredible fortress with a guide of choice, take an appointment directly to the site of the tourist office. The visit lasts 1:30 a.m. and is really worth the detour!

11. Dole

Located near Dijon, Dole is a gastronomic city full of mysteries. A gastronomic fair for labelled products and national producers will be held from 20 to 22 November 2020. Once on site, start by going to the tourist office to get a map of the route of Chat Perché. This circuit was specially designed for tourists to discover this medieval village at their own pace.

Fold in the alleys of Dole before admiring the Tanneurs Canal: a charming place. Finally, don’t forget to climb up the city’s collegial. You will then enjoy a breathtaking view of this authentic village and its divine surroundings.

Who said successful holidays must be at the sea or in the mountains? Enjoy the crazy charm of the most beautiful medieval villages in France. Our country is wonderful. Let’s take advantage of post-confinement to fully discover it!