10 towns in France that seem frozen in time

1. Étretat

Believe me, if you are lucky enough to fly to France for a short trip, the amazing commune of Étretat is sure to catch your attention. This fairytale corner is located on the shores of the English Channel.

The main attraction of this tiny town with a population of just over 1,500 is the limestone cliffs on the coast, skillfully carved by nature and time, forming amazing arches. A little further on, you can also find ancient chapels and buildings alongside modern restaurants and golf clubs.

2. Annecy

Although much has already been said and written about the magnificent Annecy, it would be a crime not to mention it again when talking about picturesque towns in France. Thanks to its unique location, it can be compared in beauty to both Venice, the city on water, and Innsbruck, Austria, surrounded by mountains.

Annecy is full of amazing architectural gems, including the former residence of the Count of Geneva, which stands on a hill and "grows" on a small island in the middle of the canal.

3. Briançon

The highest town in France also boasts a stunning architectural heritage and a rich history. Its distinctive feature is that the streets here are very steep and located on several levels.

Some of the local city fortifications are so important to history that they have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. An additional advantage is Briançon's proximity and easy access to other French cities, including famous resorts and the Écrins National Park.

4. Gordes

Experienced travelers recommend visiting Gordes in the fall or early spring, as it tends to get too crowded with tourists during the summer season.

The impressive picturesqueness of the local surroundings has served as inspiration for many famous artists at various times, including Victor Vasarely and Marc Chagall.

There is also plenty to interest lovers of historical sites: the Abbey of Sénanque, the Château de Gordes, the church and palace of Saint-Firmin, and much more.

5. Alsace

Alsace is famous for its abundance of fairy-tale medieval towns, among which Kaisersberg stands out. Its streets could easily serve as the backdrop for a historical (or romantic) film, as time seems to have no power over them.

It is quite small, so it won't take long to walk around the area and see all the sights, which are literally at every turn. Afterwards, we recommend going for a local wine tasting.

6. Ribeauville

This village is so tiny that it may slip your mind when planning your itinerary. But don't be fooled by its size on the map — if you are passing nearby (for example, along the Wine Route), don't deny yourself the pleasure of seeing this place.

Within its small borders, Ribeauville has managed to accommodate several medieval buildings, many colorful houses, a couple of excellent bakeries, and smiling, hospitable residents.

7. Honfleur

Although only a faint reminder remains of Honfleur's former pomp and importance (it was once a very important port), it has lost none of its beauty.

Its coastal views were once captured in paintings by Claude Monet and Georges Seurat, and today you can see their beauty with your own eyes. In addition to numerous museums dedicated to local cultural figures (recommended only for those with a certain level of interest in the subject), travelers note the beauty and originality of the wooden church of St. Catherine, the touching statue of Mu-Mu, and the Old Port, which has survived to this day.

8. Lourmarin

One of the reasons for Lourmarin's popularity is that it was here that Albert Camus, one of the most prominent writers of his time, found his final resting place. His grave can be visited at the local cemetery.

For those who are not avid fans of Camus, there is also something to do here. For example, it is worth visiting the restored Lourmarin Castle, Corrè Castle, or the former windmill.

9. Locronan

In the small commune of Locronan, you are guaranteed a warm welcome — travelers are very popular here. This is not surprising — for many years, this exemplary village has been a place of pilgrimage for tourists and exists mainly at their expense.

Translated, its name means "place for contemplation" — we recommend spending just a couple of hours of your time and allowing yourself to contemplate the town's key attractions — the central square, St. Ronan's Church, and the Chapel of Good News with a fountain next to it.

10. Rochefort

The spirit of true medieval romance still lingers in the streets of this tiny village! It's easy to see for yourself — just take a stroll among its well-preserved houses with tiled roofs, generously adorned with a variety of flowers.

In some places, the fortress walls have also survived, only partially reminiscent of their former power. At the beginning of the last century, American artist Alfred Clots fell under the spell of this place and purchased the ruins of Rochefort Castle. Perhaps this is why today you can meet many painters from all over the world here.

How to get there?

The most convenient way to get to Honfleur, Étretat, and Ribeauvillé is from Paris. To visit Locronan and Rochefort, it is most convenient to fly to Bordeaux. To visit Alsace, it is best to start your journey from Strasbourg. Annecy and Briançon are closer to Lyon Airport. Gord and Lurmare are located near Marseille.