The small hilltop village of Gordes in France has been named the world's most beautiful small town - and it's not hard to see why with its fairytale-like scenes
Travel Julie Delahaye Digital Travel Editor and Rom Preston-Ellis Assistant News Editor 12:17, 17 Apr 2025
A quaint village nestled in the French countryside is so stunning it has previously been crowned the world's most beautiful small town. Brits planning holidays to France usually flock to popular spots like Provence, the French Riviera or Paris, but the charming hilltop hamlet of Gordes often gets missed - even though it looks like it's been lifted straight from a storybook.
Think art galleries, abbeys, and delightful cobbled lanes brimming with unique boutiques and cosy eateries serving up the globally renowned French cuisine. There are also some awe-inspiring landmarks including the majestic Gordes Castle, the intriguing Caves of the Palais Saint Firmin that burrow underground, and the 12th century Church of Saint Fermin with its striking interiors.
Despite its secluded location in the countryside, getting there won't be too taxing for Brits. The simplest route is to fly to Marseille, from which it's just a 45-minute drive away.
(Ryanair, easyJet and British Airways all provide direct flights). Alternatively, you can catch a train to Paris and then switch to the TGV for the 2hr40 direct journey to Gordes.
There's also a wealth of affordable accommodation options. For instance, Tripadvisor lists Gordes' top hotels starting at £73 a night, while Kayak offers stays from £102 a night.
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Expedia also showcases some budget breaks including hotels from £32 a night, although the cheaper rates are typically available outside of peak seasons.
The surrounding countryside is brimming with attractions, and one natural wonder that's a must-see is Le Sentier des Ocres, currently topping Tripadvisor's list of sights in the region. Its striking rock formations and panoramic valley views have garnered rave reviews from many visitors.
A thrilled tourist shared their experience: "You will have seen the pictures of the ochre cliffs, so yo know what to expect. But the colours and shapes really are amazing. The walk takes you to several viewpoints with views of the cliffs and spires.
Some information boards explain the geology and history. It's an easy walk, although some sections are steep and sandy, so you do need decent trainers at least.
Expect your hands (and children, and dogs) to get dirty from the coloured sand. Yes you pay a few euro to get in but the boardwalks, handrails and information boards are worth it."
Another visitor was equally impressed, commenting: "A delightful, interesting site with spectacular cliffs and shapes of quarried and weathered ochre deposits. Very well maintained steps and walk ways with a choice of 'short' or 'long' walks through the wooded trails.
"Photo opportunities abound and also offer some great views of Roussillon itself - a unique red town mirroring the landscape. A must do on the tourist route."
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It's hardly shocking when Travel and Leisure declared it the most visually appealing petite town on the globe. The team said: "Gordes tends to be swarming with tourists during the summer months. But can you really blame visitors for wanting to soak in the magic of one of the most beautiful villages in France, if not the world?
"Perched high on a cliff above the valley, it's a must-see destination with cobbled lanes, churches, and a monastery punctuated by lavender fields that look like they've been plucked from the pages of a storybook."
