Most Beautiful French Countryside Towns to Visit in 2025

Beyond the postcard cities and crowded boulevards lies a different France, where stone cottages lean into winding roads and vineyard hills stretch into the horizon. For travelers planning a meaningful escape in 2025, the real charm isn’t in the big cities. It’s in the quiet corners of the countryside.

These towns offer more than visual beauty. They provide a slower pace, preserved history, and a genuine sense of place that globalized destinations often lack. This list of ten exceptional French countryside towns is curated for travelers seeking authenticity, scenic landscapes, and timeless cultural experiences. 

Each town has something distinct to offer, whether medieval architecture, vineyard-covered hills, or local traditions that still shape daily life.

10 Most Beautiful French Countryside Towns

Combiers & Collonges-la-Rouge, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine in southwest France is full of countryside towns that feel both authentic and welcoming. Two of the most beautiful—and very different—are Combiers and Collonges-la-Rouge.

Combiers: Forest Trails and Quiet Charm

Combiers is a small village in the Charente region, close to the Dordogne border. It’s surrounded by green fields, wooded trails, and gentle rivers. There are no big crowds here—just nature, calm, and traditional village life.
It’s also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Nearby spots like Villebois-Lavalette and La Rochebeaucourt offer weekly markets, medieval sites, and small cafés. The Argentine Plateau Discovery Trail is perfect for walking or cycling through quiet forests and open land.

Right in the middle of this countryside sits Château de Lasfonds, a restored 19th-century estate offering peaceful stays for families or groups. It’s just 35 minutes from the Angoulême TGV station, making it easy to reach from Paris in 2.5 hours. From the château, you can take day trips to wine regions like Cognac and Bordeaux or explore more of the local Charente countryside.

Château de Lasfonds terrace with white seating and countryside view.

Collonges-la-Rouge: A Village Built from Red Stone

Collonges-la-Rouge, in the Corrèze department, is one of the most unique-looking towns in France. Nearly every building is made from red sandstone, giving the whole place a bold, warm color. Narrow lanes, arched gateways, and vine-covered walls make this small village feel like a step back in time.

The town dates to the 8th century and is officially listed as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.” It’s also known for its artist community and strong focus on local crafts and foods. Most of the shops and restaurants are run by residents, and the historic houses have been carefully restored.

Best Times to Visit

Both Combiers and Collonges-la-Rouge are best visited in spring or early autumn. The weather is mild, the crowds are small, and local events are in full swing. A rental car is recommended to explore these towns and the nearby countryside at your own pace.

Eguisheim, Alsace

Image by unlimphotos. Eguisheim old town city skyline, cityscape of France at sunset

Eguisheim isn’t just picturesque—it’s a working village rooted in viticulture, regional craftsmanship, and centuries of layered history. This small commune is positioned near Colmar in northeastern France and serves as a cultural and geographic anchor on the Alsace Wine Route. 

It consistently ranks among the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” not for curated tourism but for the way it integrates visitors into its living rhythm, one shaped by vineyards, Roman ruins, and the legacy of Alsace’s shifting borders.

Architectural Cohesion and Urban Design Worth Studying

The town’s signature circular street plan dates back to medieval times and was constructed around a central castle, Château Saint-Léon. This layout creates a rare unity today, with pastel-hued half-timbered houses fanning outward in near-perfect symmetry. It’s one of the few places in rural France where architectural harmony isn’t a museum piece—it’s functional, lived-in infrastructure.

Regional Wine Culture Without the Commercialization

Unlike nearby Riquewihr or Kaysersberg, Eguisheim’s wine culture is deeply tied to independent producers outside major distribution chains. Many growers run tasting rooms directly from their cellars and offer varietals—like Crémant d’Alsace and Gewürztraminer—that reflect microclimates specific to Eguisheim’s slopes. 

Touring here is not about volume or spectacle; it’s about understanding the relationship between soil, weather, and tradition.

Travel Logistics and Seasonal Considerations

For travelers planning a 2025 visit, spring (April–May) and early autumn (late September) offer the best balance between vineyard activity and manageable foot traffic. Eguisheim is accessible via Colmar, which connects to France’s TGV network. 

Accommodations tend to be small-scale: expect heritage guesthouses, not branded hotels, with most offering vineyard views or direct proximity to the town’s ramparts.

Gordes, Provence

image from unlimphotos. Gordes medieval village in Southern France

Gordes is a small Provence village known for its stone houses, winding streets, and expansive views over the Luberon valley. It sits on a hill, with buildings rising in layers from the base to the top. 

While many towns in southern France are built for tourists, Gordes has kept much of its local character. It still feels like a place where people live, work, and follow long-standing traditions.

Simple Architecture With a Strong Purpose

The buildings in Gordes are made from dry stones taken from nearby quarries. This gives the town its warm, beige color and helps the homes stay cool in the summer. The town’s layout, with narrow streets and houses built into the hillside, was designed centuries ago to keep it safe during times of war. Today, this setup offers visitors beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Local Life and What to Expect

Gordes’s weekly market runs all year and sells fresh produce, cheeses, oils, and handmade goods from nearby farms and workshops. Small shops around the village offer local soaps, pottery, and textiles. 

Another highlight is the Abbey of Sénanque, just a short drive away, especially in summer when the lavender fields are in bloom. The abbey is still active and has been home to Cistercian monks since the 1100s.

How to Visit Gordes in 2025

Gordes is best reached by car. The nearest train station is in Avignon, about 40 minutes away. Most places to stay are small hotels or guesthouses, many of which are in older stone buildings with views of the valley. Summer is the busiest season, especially in June and July when the lavender blooms. 

Spring and early autumn are good times to visit for fewer crowds. Some local companies now offer electric bike tours to nearby villages, which can be a good option for those who prefer not to drive.

Riquewihr, Grand Est

Image from unlimphotos. Riquewihr in the heart of the Alsatian vineyard

Riquewihr is a small village in northeast France, close to the border with Germany. It sits between vineyards and hills, and is part of the famous Alsace Wine Route. The town is best known for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and medieval towers. 

Many buildings date back to the 16th century and have been carefully maintained, giving the village an old-world feel that still feels alive today.

A Good Choice for Wine and History Lovers

The area around Riquewihr is known for producing white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Many winemakers in the village offer tastings and short tours, and it’s easy to visit several vineyards in a single afternoon. Unlike bigger wine regions, most producers here are small family businesses working the same land for generations.

Riquewihr is also an excellent stop for those interested in French history. The town avoided major damage during World War II, meaning many original buildings and gates still stand. Walking through the town feels like stepping into a different time, especially early morning or late evening, when the crowds are gone.

Visiting Tips for 2025

Riquewihr is busiest in December during its famous Christmas market and the summer wine season. For a quieter visit, spring or early autumn are better choices. The town is easy to reach by car from Colmar and has train connections. 

Most streets are pedestrian-only, so comfortable walking shoes are a good idea. Nearby villages like Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr are also worth visiting, especially for those planning a two- or three-day trip through Alsace.

Rocamadour, Occitanie

Image from unlimphotos. Rocamadour village detail view with sunlight

Rocamadour is one of the most dramatic countryside towns in France. It rises from the edge of a limestone cliff above the Alzou canyon in the Lot department of Occitanie. This village has drawn visitors for over a thousand years, not just for its views but also for its religious importance. In the Middle Ages, Rocamadour became one of the main stops on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

Built vertically into the rock, the village climbs in levels. At the base, stone houses line narrow streets. Above that, a group of sanctuaries, including the famous Chapel of Notre-Dame, is built into the cliffside. At the top stands a castle, offering sweeping views over the valley.

More Than a Religious Site

While Rocamadour is known for its spiritual history, it’s also a town that offers rich culture, natural beauty, and regional food. The sanctuaries and chapels are open to all visitors, regardless of faith, and include a Black Madonna statue believed to date back to the 12th century. Some museums explain the town’s history and legends.

Outside the village, hiking trails lead through quiet forests and cliffs. The area is part of the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park, which helps protect its environment and encourages sustainable tourism. Local shops sell Rocamadour AOP cheese—a soft goat cheese with protected status—and other foods from the Lot region.

Travel Tips for 2025

Rocamadour is best visited outside of peak summer months to avoid heavy crowds. Late spring and early autumn offer a good mix of mild weather and peaceful streets. The closest city with train access is Brive-la-Gaillarde, but most travelers arrive by car or coach. 

Parking is in lots below the village, with shuttle buses available during high season. The climb from the lower town to the castle can be steep, but elevators and pathways help make it more manageable.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Lot Valley

Image from unlimphotos. The old village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie sits high above the Lot River in southwestern France. Its steep position gives it open views of the river valley, while the village feels like a step back in time. Narrow lanes, stone houses with pointed roofs, and Gothic arches fill the hilltop. In 2012, it was voted “France’s Favorite Village.” It continues to attract travelers who want history, charm, and natural beauty in one place.

This town once served as a stronghold in medieval times, but in the 20th century, it became a haven for artists and writers. Surrealist poet André Breton lived here and helped promote the village as a place of creative freedom. That spirit remains today, with many local galleries and studios open to the public.

Cultural Sites and Outdoor Exploration

Walking through Saint-Cirq-Lapopie feels like touring a living museum. Most buildings have been carefully restored, with many now housing cafés, bookshops, and artisan workshops. The church of Saint-Cirq, perched on a ledge above the river, dates back to the 15th century and remains one of the most visited sites in the village.

For those interested in nature, the surrounding cliffs and forests are perfect for hiking and cycling. The towpath along the Lot River, once used by barges, has been turned into a walking trail. It passes through tunnels carved into the rock and offers peaceful river views.

How to Visit in 2025

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie can be reached by car from Cahors, about 30 kilometers away, and has train connections. Due to the town’s small size, parking is outside the village, with a short uphill walk into the center. 

Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit for lower crowds and mild temperatures. Accommodation options include bed-and-breakfasts, small inns, and rural guesthouses in the surrounding countryside. Booking in advance is advised, especially in summer.

Locronan, Brittany

Image from unlimphotos. The medieval village of Locronan in Brittany

Locronan is a small town in Brittany with deep roots in Celtic tradition and maritime history. Located just a few kilometers from the Atlantic coast, it has been remarkably well preserved. The town is built almost entirely from local granite, giving its streets a strong, uniform look. Unlike other evolved countryside towns, Locronan has remained unchanged since the 17th century.

Its name comes from Saint Ronan, an Irish missionary who founded the town in the 6th century. The church at the center—Église Saint-Ronan—is a major landmark with relics that continue to attract visitors and pilgrims.

A Town Known for Art, Religion, and Cinema

Locronan grew wealthy in the past from sailcloth production, and the wide stone houses built by merchants still line the main square. Today, those same buildings house artists, weavers, and small galleries. The town has inspired painters and filmmakers for decades. Because of its authentic look, it has been used as a set for several period films, including Tess by Roman Polanski.

Religious traditions remain part of daily life. Every six years, the town holds the Grande Troménie, a major pilgrimage event that follows a 12-kilometer sacred path once walked by Saint Ronan. Even in years when the whole event is not held, a smaller version takes place and draws both locals and visitors.

Visiting Locronan in 2025

Locronan is located in Finistère, about 15 kilometers from Quimper, with train and bus connections. The town can be visited year-round, but spring and early summer offer the best weather for exploring the village and nearby coastal trails. Locronan is also close to the Crozon Peninsula, a popular area for hiking and seaside views.

While it’s a small town, a few charming guesthouses and small hotels are nearby. Most visitors spend a day exploring the village, but staying overnight allows for a quieter experience after day-trippers leave.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Image from unlimphotos. Weg in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a small village nestled between two rocky cliffs in southeastern France, just at the edge of the Verdon Natural Regional Park. A small stream runs down through the center of the village, and stone buildings climb up both sides. At first glance, the setting alone makes this one of France’s most impressive countryside towns.

But the village offers more than scenery. Moustiers has been known for its fine ceramics since the 17th century, and today, many local workshops still produce faïence—hand-painted tin-glazed pottery unique to this region. The local craft tradition keeps visitors interested in art, history, and Provençal culture.

What to See and Do

A stone star suspended by a long iron chain hangs between the two cliffs above the town. Its origin is tied to a local legend and has become a well-known symbol of Moustiers. Visitors can also hike up a steep path to the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Beauvoir, which offers excellent views of the village and the surrounding valley.

Nearby, the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) offers outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Sainte-Croix Lake is also nearby, known for its turquoise waters and quiet beaches. This makes the area ideal for combining cultural travel with nature.

Planning a Trip in 2025

The village is located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region and is best reached by car. The closest major towns are Manosque and Digne-les-Bains. Summer is the busiest season, especially from June to August, when the warm weather and the nearby lavender fields bloom. Spring and early autumn are quieter but still pleasant for walking and sightseeing.

Accommodations include small hotels, family-run inns, and guesthouses. Many offer views of the cliffs or easy access to the ceramic shops. Local restaurants serve classic Provençal dishes, with menus that change based on the season.

Pérouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Image from unlimphotos. Alley in the medieval village of Perouges

Pérouges is a small, hilltop town about 30 kilometers northeast of Lyon. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, it is surrounded by stone walls, cobbled streets, wooden-framed houses, and archways dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Unlike many towns that mix modern and old elements, Pérouges has kept its original look almost entirely intact.

Initially built by craftsmen and weavers, the town became known for its textiles in the Middle Ages. Today, it draws visitors who want to experience a quiet, historic town that feels untouched by modern development.

Daily Life and Local Traditions

While Pérouges is small, it offers a few highlights worth noting. The central square, Place du Tilleul, is the heart of the town, framed by ancient buildings and home to a large linden tree that has stood for centuries. The Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, built as part of the town’s defense system, still stands near the main gate.

A local specialty is the galette au sucre, a thin, sweet pastry made from butter, sugar, and lemon. It’s baked in wood-fired ovens and sold fresh in bakeries across the town. Many restaurants and cafés focus on regional dishes from the Ain department, offering simple but authentic meals.

Visiting Pérouges in 2025

Pérouges can be visited easily as a day trip by car or regional train from Lyon. Its small size means most travelers spend a few hours walking the streets, visiting the main square, and enjoying lunch before moving on. However, staying overnight offers a much quieter experience, especially after day visitors leave.

Spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit, with cooler temperatures and lighter crowds. Since the town is car-free inside the walls, parking is available outside, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on the uneven cobblestones.

Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Image from unlimphotos. Village scene in Vezelay, Burgundy, France

Vézelay is located in the Burgundy region of central France, perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. It has long been known as a spiritual center and a starting point for one of the main pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Its most famous site—the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major landmark in French religious history.

Beyond its religious roots, Vézelay is a quiet, atmospheric village with a rich cultural past. For centuries, writers, artists, and thinkers have been drawn to its peaceful setting and historic charm.

A Place Where Faith, Art, and History Meet

The basilica is the heart of Vézelay. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and draws visitors worldwide. Carved stone columns and a long central nave create a peaceful and impressive space. The church is still active, and services are held regularly.

The village also has several small museums, art galleries, and local shops selling books, wine, and handmade items. Many visitors walk the surrounding trails or visit nearby vineyards, as Vézelay lies near the edge of the famous Burgundy wine region.

How to Plan a Visit in 2025

Vézelay can be reached by car from Auxerre or Avallon, the nearest towns with train service. The village itself is walkable, with most sights within a short distance from each other. For travelers interested in religious history or rural architecture, Vézelay offers both in a quiet and meaningful setting.

Spring and autumn are perfect times to visit, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Local guesthouses and small hotels are available, many offering views of the valley or easy access to nearby walking paths. 

Vézelay works well as part of a road trip through northern Burgundy, especially for travelers combining cultural stops with wine tasting and countryside exploration.

Travel Tips for Visiting the French Countryside in 2025

• Choose spring or early autumn: April to June and late September offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and more local events than the busy summer months.
• Avoid peak travel weeks: Mid-July to mid-August is the school holiday season in France. Many towns are crowded and prices are higher during this time.
• Combine train and car travel: Use fast trains to reach nearby cities, then rent a car to visit smaller countryside towns that don’t have direct rail access.
• Expect to walk in most towns: Historic centers often don’t allow cars. Public parking is available outside the village, with easy walking paths inside.
• Book small stays in advance: Guesthouses and village hotels fill quickly, especially in popular regions like Provence and Alsace. Booking early gives more choice.
• Try local and eco-friendly stays: Farmhouses, vineyard lodges, and eco-stays offer personal service, homemade meals, and a closer connection to the region.
• Visit on market days: Weekly markets are common and are great for trying fresh cheese, bread, and produce. Market days vary by town.
• Learn a few French phrases: Simple words like “bonjour” and “merci” make a difference, especially in towns where fewer people speak English.
• Follow local routines: Many shops close for lunch and don’t stay open late. Be prepared for quiet evenings and limited services on Sundays.
• Plan for a slower pace: Instead of rushing through many towns, focus on exploring one or two regions deeply. Rural France is best enjoyed unhurriedly.

Château de Lasfonds: A Living Part of the Countryside Journey

Chateau de Lasfonds

Between the Dordogne and Charente regions, Château de Lasfonds is more than a place to stay—it’s an extension of the rural French experience. For travelers mapping peaceful routes through towns like Rocamadour, Vézelay, and Collonges-la-Rouge, this 19th-century estate offers the same quiet beauty and historical depth that make those places unforgettable.

Built between 1849 and 1893, the château reflects Napoleonic-era architecture while offering modern comforts for slow, intentional travel. Surrounded by 6.5 hectares of private parkland and forest, it’s designed for privacy, comfort, and connection, with space to gather, unwind, and explore.

Key Features

• Sleeps 18+ guests across four château bedrooms and several cottage outbuildings
• Heated 14×7m pool (open from May), sun terraces, and outdoor dining areas
• Floor heating and fireplaces for winter stays
• Fully equipped kitchen with a Barista corner and a cocktail-ready fridge
• Art gallery, games room, gym.
• Office space with printer, scanner, and adaptable meeting areas

Location and Travel

• 35 minutes from Angoulême TGV station (2.5 hours by train from Paris)
• 2 hours from Bordeaux International Airport
• 75–90 minutes from regional airports in Limoges, Bergerac, or Cognac
• Car rental or private transport is strongly recommended to enjoy the surrounding villages and natural sites

House Guidelines

Guests are kindly asked to help preserve the estate’s charm. Smoking is not allowed indoors. Pets are welcome only in the outbuildings with advance notice. Shoes should be removed on the upper floors to protect the carpets. 

Children must be supervised when near the pool, and care should be taken with artwork, furnishings, and fireplaces. Guests are free to use the kitchen and common areas, but are asked to tidy up after use and report any damage if it occurs.

Château de Lasfonds doesn’t just host the countryside experience—it becomes part of it.

Book your stay and slow down where time still feels real.

FAQs About French Countryside Towns