From lively cities to culturally rich villages, France is one of the oldest and most ethnically diverse nations in all of Europe. With its decades-long and unique history and origin stories, it is among the most significant countries in the Western world. A capital in economy, cinema, fashion, food, and fun, France is the most visited tourist destination in the world. While cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Nice, and Marseille are considered best to explore in terms of charm and diversity, let’s not forget the beautiful villages and their fairy-tale offerings including medieval architecture, castles, scenery, and delicious food. The French countryside has much to offer with a beautiful slow life, charming wineries, indulgent cuisine, alluring Alps, dramatic houses, ravishing hilltops, and canals. We’ve listed out 4 enchanting and picturesque villages that seem to come straight out of a storybook. You can thank us later.
Honfleur, Normandy
Normandy, a region of Northern France is home to the most beautiful villages in the country. Offering picturesque views with well-preserved cultural heritage and unique architecture, Normandy is a gem that one must visit when in France.
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Where the Seine River meets the English Channel, Honfleur is one of the country’s most visited towns. It is hard not to fall in love with its colourful streets and the old port. Consider visiting Le Vieux Bassin, Saint Catherine’s Church, Notre-Dame de Grace, The Eugène Boudin Museum, Normandy Bridge, and Naturospace. Food culture in Honfleur is buzzing with Norman staples like butter, crème frâiche, camembert, apple, and apple cider. Marmite Dieppoise (fish stew), seafood, duck, lamb, and giblets are some of the many dishes that restaurants in this region have to offer.
[P.S. When in Normandy, you can also check out Le Mont Saint Michel, one of the most stunning sights in France.]
Dinan, Brittany
Located in the northwest of France, Brittany is known for its rugged coastline bordering the English Channel, the Celtic Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean. Referred to as “Little Britain”, this beautiful region in France has many historic sites and landmarks.
Dinan, a medieval town in Brittany is known for its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and beautiful flora and fauna. When in Dinan, visit Dinan Castle, Saint-Sauveur Basilica, Tour de l’Horloge, and Port de Dinan. We recommend trying delicacies like Galettes de Bretagne, Poulet à la bretonne, Cotriade, Far Breton, and Crêpes salées.
Montrésor, The Loire Valley
Spanning 280 kilometres, the Loire Valley is located somewhere in the middle of the famous Loire River in central France. The valley is known for its several castles, vineyards, and medieval towns. Montrésor is a small town that is adored by the locals and for obvious reasons – it has everything one can dream of in the countryside including a river, a small castle, long alleys, stone houses, greenery, and chateaus. When in Montrésor, head to Château de Montrésor, Les Balcons de l’Indrois, and The Collegiate Church of St John. Besides wine and cheese, the region is best known for delicacies including Fouace, fish, Rillettes, and Pâté de Chartres.
Veyrier-du-Lac, Lake Annecy
Located in the Haute-Savoie region of France, Lake Annecy is bordered by snow-capped mountains. Popularly known as “Europe’s cleanest lake”, Lake Annecy is a total hotspot for tourists. Sitting on the edge of Lake Annecy is the pretty village of Veyrier-du-Lac.
Situated just 5 km from Annecy, this village is a beauty to behold. If you are in Veyrier-du-Lac, visit Port of Veyrier, Plage de la Brune, and Galerie d’Art Sylvie Platini. Tartiflette, Gratin de crozets, Gâteau de Savoie, and Tarte aux myrtilles are some of the local dishes one can try in this village.
The best part about these villages is that they are not confined to just one kind of vibe, and are lowkey magical.
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