Discover the villages that whisper to history, art and culture lovers. Here are the 16 most beautiful villages in New Aquitaine.
The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region encompasses departments such as Gironde, Landes and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, which rival each other for exceptional natural beauty and phenomena. Their identities are manifold, and they proudly display many specialties. Nevertheless, the villages of Nouvelle Aquitaine – which are dotted all along the roads – have one thing in common: they are full of charm.
Let yourself be surprised by the richness of these cultural and historical nuggets. Their architectural quality and unspoilt heritage will reveal a true art of living and authenticity. Set off in search of the 16 most beautiful villages in New Aquitaine.
1. Collonges-la-Rouge
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Ivonne Wierink
The small medieval village of Collonges-la-Rouge is a flamboyant treasure trove. Ranked among the most beautiful places to visit in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, it owes its place to its incredible palette of colors. Red sandstone covers the medieval monuments, which are themselves topped with anthracite lauze roofs: what a prodigious sight!
Lose yourself in the narrow streets and discover the harmony of this atypical place.
2. Beynac-et-Cazenac
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Belt944
Beynac-et-Cazenac is breathtakingly beautiful, with its cobbled streets and exceptional panoramic views, and has been a muse for many artists. Perched high above a valley, the village embraces the castles. The houses seem to hang in the air above the cliffs.
In the historic heart, the narrow streets bear witness to an architectural style that is both massive and elegant. The château de Beynac-et-Cazenac overlooks this maze, and stands unwavering against the château de Castelnaud.
3. Brantôme
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Sergii Rudiuk
Nestled in the heart of a hillside, with the River Dronne as its backdrop, Brantôme is known as the « Venice of Périgord ». In addition to the sparkling meandering waters, spanned by enchanting bridges, this must-visit village in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region bears witness to every era. From prehistoric times to the Renaissance and the Roman era, Brantôme boasts a wealth of remains. Yet this cosmopolitan architecture is endowed with a fascinating harmony.
4. Domme
Photo credit: Shutterstock – SpiritProd33
Domme is one of the most beautiful bastides in New Aquitaine. The « Acropolis of Périgord » dominates the Dordogne valley. It also bears witness to an exceptional site inherited from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Its cobbled streets tumble down the slopes and, every spring, pour out a delicious scent of roses. Coquetry and authenticity are to be found in every stone of this characterful village.
5. La Roque-Gageac
Photo credit: Shutterstock – apgestoso
On arrival at La Roque-Gageac, the view is spectacular. Here, the sun floods the exotic garden and the high cliffs dotted with evergreen oaks. The houses, with their anthracite lauzes or tiled roofs, nestle under a veritable limestone wall.
Depending on the time of day, this cliffside village sparkles in the river. The small stone houses of La Roche-Gageac flourish at the foot of the castle and ramparts.
6. Saint-Emilion
Photo credit: Shutterstock – FreeProd33
Saint-Emilion is surrounded by vineyards that produce world-renowned wines. Discover Saint-Emilion’s medieval architecture as you stroll through the town.
From the Palais Cardinal to the Cloître, from the great walls to the monolithic church, your stroll will be punctuated by spectacular historic monuments. Embark on an exceptional oenological experience, surrounded by whitewashed houses with pastel roofs.
7. Saint-Macaire
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This beautiful village to visit in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region looks like a real postcard. The restored facades, the warmly colored frescoes and the whispers from the balconies: there are so many surprises waiting for you in Saint-Macaire.
This ancient village, surrounded by ramparts, also boasts one of the most beautiful medieval squares in France. With its wheat-colored stone arcades and Renaissance ornamentation, it’s a must-see.
8. Monflanquin
Credit Photo – Wikipedia : MOSSOT
Montflanquin is one of the most beautiful villages in the Lot-et-Garonne region. Put down your bags and stop off at the heart of its Gothic church, in the meandering streets or at the Maison du Prince Noir.
Monflanquin also offers a fascinating country atmosphere, in the midst of peaceful countryside. In this ancient medieval bastide, houses with round-tiled roofs hug each other and take you back several centuries.
9. Ainhoa
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Borisb17
This typical bastide village, often immortalized by great painters, borders the ocean and the Spanish border. It boasts one of the most beautiful spots to visit in New Aquitaine. Ainhoa invites you to sit down to a fine meal and stroll around the craftsmen and the town center.
Straight-lined and lined with brightly-colored half-timbered houses, the town of Ainhoa transports you back in time. But it’s also its Basque authenticity that attracts visitors.
10. La Bastide-Clairence
Credit Photo – Wikipedia : Peter Potrowl
This jewel of the Basque country stands out with its lovely red and white houses and medieval monuments. The gabled and half-timbered houses, pierced by mullioned windows and engraved lintels, are even reminiscent of a cartoon set.
La Bastide-Clairence also charms with its large square square that climbs up to the church. A must-visit artists’ haven in New Aquitaine for those who also love crafts.
11. Espelette
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Laiotz
Your taste buds will tingle at the mere mention of this village, one of the most beautiful and gourmet places to visit in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. Espelette is indeed the birthplace of the famous pimento pepper, which deliciously enhances your dishes. But it’s not just for gourmets.
History buffs will be delighted by a stroll through the winding streets. They wind their way through the village in a sparkling labyrinth. From September onwards, admire the garlands of peppers drying on the walls of the picturesque corbelled houses.
12. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
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Pilgrims finishing the mythical Camino de Compostela arrive in this village and open their eyes in wonder. And no wonder. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port nestles in the mountains at the foot of the port of Roncesvalles.
This pleasant, peaceful town offers a splendid, sparkling setting with its pink sandstone houses and shimmering waters. Not to mention its medieval alleyways and cascading gardens, giving it the air of a fairytale village.
13. Belvès
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Oliverouge 3
Belvès, perched on a promontory on the site of a Gallo-Roman castrum and an ancient medieval town, is a journey back in time. Here, the valleys are littered with chestnut, walnut and oak woods that tumble under the sun.
The vast forests are criss-crossed with footpaths that will delight hikers. In the heart of the village, the mansions of old Belvès slip between some long-inhabited troglodyte houses. Take a stroll through the shopping streets, teeming with craft stores and breweries.
14. Monpazier
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Gordon Bell
One of the most beautiful villages in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, Monpazier is the epitome of medieval architecture. More than thirty historic monuments still stand intact. Then, in the heart of the village, the square is ringed with picturesque houses. Pass under its magnificent arcades, which also host the colorful local market. The bastide town of Monpazier Bastide is the most famous and best preserved in Périgord.
If you get up high, you’ll realize that this city forms a quadrilateral bounded by fortified gates.
15. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Photo credit: Shutterstock – beboy
Still feel like visiting New Aquitaine at the pace of its past? Discover Castelnaud-la-Chapelle: a medieval fortress with golden stone facades rising from the earth in a verdant setting.
Its medieval installations with machicolations and its castle standing out majestically offer a splendid panorama of the surrounding valleys. Here, history and the art of war are told through every window.
16. Sauveterre-de-Béarn
Photo credit: Shutterstock – TatkaZ
Last but not least, one of our most beautiful villages to visit in New Aquitaine: Sauveterre-de-Béarn. Overlooking the Pyrenean foothills and a valley of sparkling waterholes, it’s a testimony to an incredibly gentle way of life.
Perched on its rocky promontory, the medieval town is also enchanted by its harmonious ensembles. These jewels can be admired from the picturesque Pont de la Légende. Tour Monréal, the church steeple and the ramparts watch over you.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Nouvelle Aquitaine