Bonjour and Bienvenue to those who are new here. Welcome to our gorgeous community, This French Life! As an American immigrant living full-time in France, I love to share a combo of my stories and experiences, plus tips and tricks for #yourFrenchlife.
In today’s post, I share with you my favorite villages in France. I chose several locations throughout the country. And while this list is not anywhere near exhaustive, these are currently in my top five.
BURGUNDY / BOURGOGNE – Beaune. With gorgeous remparts protecting this petite village, Beaune is at the center of the Burgundy winemaking region in France. Surrounded by the internationally famous Côte d’Or vineyards, this cobbled town is renowned for its annual wine auction held at the Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune).
HAUTE-SAVOIE – Chamonix. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (usually shortened to Chamonix) is a resort area near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy. At the base of Mont Blanc, the highest summit in the Alps, Chamonix is renowned for its skiing. Year-round, cable cars take visitors up to several nearby peaks with panoramic views.
PROVENCE – Lourmarin. This “plus beaux village” in France makes you feel like you have stepped onto a movie set. If you are looking for a romantic, small-village day set in the heart of Provence, then be sure to put Lourmarin on your list.
CÔTES D’ARMOR – Dinan & Léhon. Dinan is a town in Brittany, northwest France. Known for its medieval ramparts, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses, you can also explore Dinan Castle, a 14th-century keep, and the Tour du Coëtquen, a 15th-century artillery tower.
CHARENTE-MARITIME – Ars-en-Ré. Île de Ré is an island off the west coast of France. It’s known for its salt marshes and beaches like the Plage de la Conche des Baleines, backed by dunes and pine trees. Bicycle paths crisscross the island.
I have videos saved in my Instagram highlights on all of these locations!
Bisous and big hugs 🤗 from France,
Shannon