The Secret French Villages You’ve Never Heard Of, But Need To Visit

Introduction

Bonjour, mes amis! In this blog post, I will take you on an enchanting journey through some of the most picturesque and hidden gems of France – villages that will transport you back in time, with their charming cobblestone streets, warm and welcoming locals, and delectable cuisine. So, let’s embark on a magical five-day adventure through these secret French villages that you’ve never heard of but absolutely need to visit!

Day 1: Arrival in Vézelay, Burgundy

Getting there: To reach Vézelay, take a train from Paris to Avallon (2h30min), and then a short 20-minute taxi ride to the village.

Our journey begins in the captivating village of Vézelay, nestled in the heart of Burgundy. One of the highlights here is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine (2 Rue Saint-Étienne, 89450 Vézelay). This Romanesque church is not only an architectural marvel, but it also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

For a unique experience, indulge in a wine tasting tour at the local vineyards, and don’t forget to try the region’s famed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local bistro, savoring traditional dishes like boeuf bourguignon and escargots.

Day 2: Gerberoy, Picardy

Getting there: From Vézelay, drive for about 3 hours to reach Gerberoy, or take a train to Beauvais (3h30min) and then a 45-minute taxi ride to the village.

Our next stop is Gerberoy, a tiny medieval village known for its picturesque half-timbered houses adorned with vibrant roses. Start your day by exploring the charming streets and capturing picture-perfect moments. Don’t miss the Collégiale Saint-Pierre (Rue du Logis du Roy, 60380 Gerberoy), a beautiful Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows.

For a unique experience, join a local artist for a painting class and immortalize the beauty of Gerberoy on canvas. In the evening, treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at a local restaurant, where you can try regional specialties like ficelle picarde (savory crepe) and tarte au maroilles (cheese tart).

Day 3: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie

Getting there: From Gerberoy, drive for approximately 6 hours or take a train to Cahors (7h), followed by a 30-minute taxi ride to the village.

Perched atop a cliff overlooking the River Lot, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is an enchanting village that will captivate your heart. Begin your day by visiting the 14th-century Eglise Saint-Cirq (Place du Sombral, 46330 Saint-Cirq-Lapopie) and admire its beautiful frescoes.

For an unforgettable experience, take a guided canoe tour down the River Lot, exploring hidden caves and enjoying the stunning landscape. In the evening, feast on mouthwatering local dishes like duck confit and truffle-infused foie gras at a cozy restaurant.

Day 4: Eus, Languedoc-Roussillon

Getting there: From Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, drive for 4 hours or take a train to Perpignan (4h30min), followed by a 45-minute taxi ride to the village.

Our next destination is Eus, a sun-kissed village nestled at the foot of Mount Canigou, offering panoramic views of the Pyrenees. Start your day with a visit to the 18th-century Eglise Saint-Vincent (Place de l’Église, 66500 Eus), where you can admire its beautiful Baroque altarpiece.

For a truly unique experience, join a guided hike to the nearby Mount Canigou, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas and soak in natural hot springs. Alternatively, explore the local artisan workshops and learn about traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving.

In the evening, sample delightful Catalan-inspired dishes like boles de picolat (meatballs in tomato sauce) and rousquilles (lemon-flavored cookies) at a charming village eatery.

Day 5: Riquewihr, Alsace

Getting there: From Eus, drive for about 7 hours or take a train to Colmar (8h), followed by a 20-minute taxi ride to the village.

Our final stop is the fairytale-like village of Riquewihr, a colorful Alsatian gem surrounded by vineyards. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, admiring the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses.

For a memorable experience, rent a bike and explore the Alsace Wine Route, stopping at local wineries for tastings of the region’s celebrated Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. Don’t forget to visit the Dolder Tower (5 Rue du Dolder, 68340 Riquewihr), a 13th-century gate offering stunning views of the village and surrounding vineyards.

In the evening, savor the flavors of Alsace at a local restaurant, with dishes like tarte flambée (thin-crust pizza) and choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages and pork).

Conclusion

As we reflect on this extraordinary journey through the secret French villages, it’s impossible not to feel a deep sense of gratitude for the unforgettable memories, heartwarming encounters, and mouthwatering cuisine. Each village, with its unique charm and character, offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of French culture and history. I hope that this blog post has inspired you to venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems for yourself. Bon voyage, mes amis!

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