Discovering the most beautiful villages in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

France

Written on10.12.25

Plus beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Between majestic lakes, imposing massifs and unspoilt valleys

Set off on an adventure of...

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is home to a multitude of villages with singular charm. Some are renowned for their medieval heritage, others for their natural panoramas or their local traditions. Here's an enriched selection of themost beautiful villages in the region, for a visit, a stay or an excursion.

Yvoire plus village d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

1) Yvoire

The medieval pearl of Lake Geneva

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Yvoire is a former fishing village classified Plus Beau Village de France. Thismedieval town seduces with its flower-filled lanes, stone houses, its castle and XIVᵉ century remains, as well as the bulbous bell tower of Saint-Pancrace church. The village can be visited entirely on foot, and offers superb views of the lake and its two harbors.

A must-see, the Garden of the Five Senses, inspired by the Middle Ages, invites visitors on a sensory stroll through several gardens dedicated to scents, flavors and touch. On the lake side, depending on the season, it's possible to enjoy cruises on the Léman, water sports activities or a small beach to cool off.

2) Pérouges

The fortified city at the gateway to Lyon

Just a few minutes from Lyon, Pérouges is a perfectly preserved medieval town. You enter through fortified gates before arriving at the famous place du Tilleul, the lively heart of the village, entwined with historic inns and golden stone houses. The atmosphere here is unique. Visitors particularly appreciate the cobbled lanes winding between the buildings, as well as the craftsmen perpetuating the local know-how. It's impossible to leave without tasting the galette de Pérouges, a sweet specialty which is eaten warm and crispy. This village, popular with families and history buffs alike, lends itself perfectly to a guided tour or audio walk.

Pérouges plus beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Bonneval sur arc beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

3) Bonneval-sur-Arc

The authentic charm of high-altitude villages

Perched at an altitude of 1,800 meters in the heart of the Haute-Maurienne, Bonneval-sur-Arc epitomizes the raw beauty of mountain villages. Its sturdy stone houses and lauze roofs give it a rare traditional character, preserved despite the passage of centuries. The village is an ideal gateway to the Parc national de la Vanoise, one of the most popular natural areas for hikers. In summer, you can treat yourself to panoramic hikes to glaciers or alpine pastures; in winter, Bonneval becomes a popular place for skiing, thanks in particular to the ski area linked to Val d'Isère.

4) Salers

Between volcanic stone and Auvergne traditions

Also ranked among the Plus Beaux Villages de France, Salers is a true treasure nestled in the heart of the Cantal mountains. Its massive black lava stone houses lend it a solemn and elegant atmosphere, enhanced by the beauty of its central square and its Renaissance decor. In the surrounding area, the volcanic landscapes offer spectacular views, particularly from the belvederes accessible on foot. Food lovers also come to taste the famous Salers PDO cheese, produced by local breeders. A visit to the Maison de la Salers will enable you to learn more about the region's farming traditions and culture.

Salers plus beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Mirmande plus beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

5) Mirmande

An inspiring, luminous hilltop village

Hanging in the hills of the Drôme, Mirmande is an artists' village renowned for its panoramas and its atmosphere paisible. Its sloping alleyways reveal painting studios, galleries and authentic little stores often featuring local creators. The Sainte-Foy church, located in the upper part of the village, offers a magnificent view of the Rhône valley and the surrounding orchards. Mirmande is aperfect place for a quiet stroll, a rejuvenating weekend or an immersion in art and crafts. Visitors can easily book a charming bed and breakfast here, or a guided stroll to discover the village's secrets.

6) Balazuc

The charm of the Ardèche by the river

Hanging on a cliff overlooking the Ardèche, Balazuccombines heritage and nature in a spectacular setting. Its maze of stone streets leads down to the river, where you can swim orrent a canoe to explore the surrounding area. Very popular with familiesas well as nature sports enthusiasts, Balazuc is also known for its Romanesque churchand its Provencal ambience. In summer, its waterside beach is a must-see, as is a visit to the neighboring hamlet of Viel Audon, accessible via a pleasant footpath.

Balazuc plus beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Pont-en-Royans beaux villages d’Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

7) Pont-en-Royans

A spectacular village at the gateway to the Vercors

Clinging to the rock above the Bourne, Pont-en-Royans beguiles with itscolored houses suspended above the river. This emblematic Dauphiné village offers a unique backdrop, between vertiginous cliffs and turquoise waters. The gateway to the Vercors Regional Nature Park, it's also the ideal starting point for numerous nature discoveries. A must for lovers of spectacular scenery and characterful villages.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a region of a thousand charms

Between hilltop villages, sparkling lakes and majestic landscapes

This selection of villages is just a glimpse of the cultural and natural richness offered by the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Each market town, whether nestled by a lake or nestled in the heart of the mountains, reveals on a unique character and a history deeply rooted in local traditions.

Traveling in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes also means getting to know its inhabitants, discovering passionate craftsmen, sampling generous gastronomy and soaking up unspoilt nature that invites relaxation as well as adventure. Whether it's your first exploration or a more in-depth stay, the region always has a new facet to reveal.

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