Le Malzieu-Ville in the south of France is a medieval town that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook, and it’s been named the country’s ‘most beautiful secret escape’
France is famous for its picturesque villages that seem straight out of a fairytale, but one of its most stunning spots often goes unnoticed by tourists. Le Malzieu-Ville, nestled in the southern French countryside, appears to have leapt from the pages of a storybook with its 13th-century architecture, stone houses and sweeping views of the idyllic green landscapes that envelop it.
Given its scenic beauty, it’s no wonder that this medieval town has been dubbed France’s ‘most beautiful secret escape’ according to research by Avis. With a population of just 900 and tucked away off the beaten track, it’s the perfect destination for adventurous travellers seeking to savour exquisite French cuisine and bask in the summer sun, all without the throngs of tourists found in other popular destinations like the French Riviera.
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There’s a wealth of history to discover, particularly for history enthusiasts, with highlights including the imposing castle of Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole, the town’s Clock Tower, statues and ancient walls encircling the town.
For those keen on outdoor activities, there are numerous hiking and cycling trails in the vicinity – and don’t forget to carve out time in your schedule for a visit to the picturesque Porte des Fées rock formation.
One French tourist was utterly charmed by the serene beauty of the location, sharing on Tripadvisor: “Magnificent view! It was worth the stop for an hour to discover this spot off the main paths, get a dose of fresh air – relaxing and replenishing”.
Another visitor was equally impressed, saying: “An exceptional site. Park in front of the church, and a small 15-minute walk away there’s a view that will take your breath away.”
Throughout the sun-soaked summer months, the town bursts into life with a host of exciting events such as a Medieval Festival, bustling summer markets, and a jubilant town-wide celebration in July complete with fireworks over the nearby lake and entertainment including fairground rides.
Food enthusiasts are also in for a treat with the weekly market every Tuesday, offering a chance to indulge in the finest local produce.
The team at Avis reveals: “Le Malzieu-Ville, nestled in the heart of the Lozère region, captivates visitors with its medieval architecture, the town’s well-preserved stone houses and ancient fortifications transporting visitors back in time.
“Le Malzieu-Ville doesn’t have a major train station directly within its limits. To travel to Le Malzieu-Ville, you can take a train to Marvejols from a transport hub like Clermont-Ferrand or Nîmes.”
Brits eyeing up a French getaway need to be aware of the post-Brexit passport rules. Your UK passport must be under 10 years old on your travel date and have at least three months left after your return date.
Despite these rules being in place for some time, they continue to trip up travellers. So, make sure you check your documents well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute renewal panic.