France is renowned for boasting ridiculously pretty villages that are the stuff of fairytales, but one of its most beautiful is often overlooked by tourists.
Le Malzieu-Ville in the south of France is tucked away in remote countryside but looks like it's straight out of a storybook with its 13th century architecture, stone houses and views across the picture-perfect green landscapes that surround it. With so many pretty views, it's therefore no surprise that the medieval town has been named France's 'most beautiful secret escape' according to research from Avis.
Plus with just 900 residents and a location off the beaten track, it's ideal for intrepid explorers who want to sample amazing French cuisine and bask in the summer sunshine, all without having to deal with the crowds of tourists you'll find in other hotspots such as the French Riviera.
There's plenty to explore, especially for history buffs with highlights including the impressive castle of Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole, the town's Clock Tower, statues and ancient walls that surround the town. For those who want to make the most of the great outdoors, you'll find countless hiking and cycling trails in the area - and leave space on the itinerary for a trip to see the picturesque Porte des Fées rock formation.
One French visitor said that it was a "beautiful view, tranquil and relaxing". They wrote 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 added: "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".
During the summer months the town still caters to visitors with plenty of fun events including a Medieval Festival, summer markets, and a town-wide celebration in July with fireworks on the nearby lake as well as entertainment such as fairground rides. Meanwhile foodies won't want to miss out on the weekly market every Tuesday where you can sample some of the best of the local produce.
The Avis team explain: "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 planning holidays to France should take note of new rules in force since Brexit. UK passports need to be less than 10 years old on the day of travel, and must have at least three months remaining after your return date. These rules have been in place for a while but are still catching holidaymakers out, so check your documents a few months before you travel in case you need to renew them in time!
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