While millions flock to the Eiffel Tower and the French Riviera each year, a quiet medieval commune in southeastern France has been crowned the nation's top spot by its own people. Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, a hidden gem in the Isère department, has just been voted the favourite French village of 2025 by viewers of the popular television programme Le Village Préféré des Français.
A Medieval Masterpiece Off the Beaten Track
Nestled within the rolling Chambaran hills, this storybook settlement offers a profoundly different experience from France's crowded tourist hubs. With a population of just 1,258 residents, Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye is the epitome of tranquil, authentic France. Visitors are immediately transported back in time as they wander its cobblestone streets, past exquisite half-timbered buildings and historic stone houses that make up its beautifully preserved medieval quarter.
The village's crowning glory is the Abbey Church of Saint-Antoine, a magnificent Gothic institution that once served as the headquarters for the Hospital Brothers of St. Anthony. Founded in 1297, the abbey's significance is underscored by its status as a French Historic Monument since 1840. Originally known as La-Motte-Saint-Didier, the village was renamed in the 11th century after it became the guardian of the purported relics of Saint Anthony the Great.
Experiencing Village Life and Local Flavours
Beyond its architectural splendour, the village offers a rich tapestry of cultural and sensory experiences. The Musée de Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye provides a deep dive into medieval history through fascinating displays and interactive exhibitions, including a unique fragrance exhibit exploring the historical link between scent and healing.
Artisan cafes and craft shops dot the lanes, offering perfect spots for contemplation. The region is also celebrated for its local produce. Food enthusiasts can savour Noix de Grenoble walnuts, creamy Saint-Marcellin cheese, and the legendary Chartreuse liqueur—a green-yellow herbal spirit meticulously produced by Carthusian Monks since 1737.
Practical Travel for British Visitors
For UK travellers seeking this authentic escape, the journey is straightforward. The most efficient route involves flying to either Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport or Grenoble Alpes Isère Airport. From there, it's a scenic 1.5-hour drive by rental car or pre-booked transfer to the village itself.
The climate offers distinct seasonal charms, with summer temperatures reaching a pleasant 26°C, perfect for exploring, while winters are colder, with January averages dropping to -1°C, creating a crisp, picturesque atmosphere.
In an era where many European destinations grapple with overtourism, the village's mayor, Maryline Longis, welcomes the recognition. She told The Times, 'We haven't got the problem of overtourism and it won't happen here. This is a great honour and we're perfectly well able to handle more tourism.' She confidently assured that even with an influx of visitors, Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye will remain 'calm and untroubled', preserving the serene magic that made it a favourite in the first place.
