France counts tens of thousands of villages but...

You might stumble at one point on a sign that indicates “L’un des plus beaux villages de France” – one of the most beautiful villages in France. Usually, this would mean medieval buildings, often castles, cobblestone streets, floral displays, but way more. Many of these villages are quite far off the beaten path, accessible only by narrow country roads and not anywhere close to the major tourist centres.

But what makes a “most beautiful village” and who decides? It all comes down to an association started in 1981 by the then-Mayor of one of them, Collonges la Rouge. Rapidly, sixty-six other mayors joined in, and the association now includes 168 villages.

All villages on the restricted list possess exceptional heritage and beauty. Each one is evaluated on 30 criteria, including heritage sites and architecture as well as smaller details such as hidden electrical wires. There’s less than a 1-in-5 chance of making it!

Although not clearly stated it seems like the association is looking at capping the number of villages at around 200.

In 2012, was created the Federation of the Most Beautiful Villages of the Earth. It gathers the national networks of members: France, Wallonia in Belgium, Italy, Japan and Spain (793 villages altogether) along with some observer members. The Federation main goal is: Based on quality including the village and its landscape, these associations share their efforts and experiences to defend sustainable development applied to these exceptional places.

Below are the most beautiful villages in France as
sketched watercolors by Experience (my) France. Enjoy!

(Disclaimer: Experience (my) France is not affiliated in any way with
the association “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France”)