Conques crowned top village by Petit Futé; Locquirec ranks third in French village poll

The medieval village of Conques in the Aveyron department of southern France was named the world's most beautiful village by the Petit Futé guide, surpassing candidates in Italy and the Cyclades. The accolade follows the village's inclusion in the "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" list and highlights its Romanesque abbey of Sainte‑Foy, noted for its historic architecture and contemporary stained‑glass windows.

On the northern coast of Brittany, the small fishing port of Locquirec secured third place in the 2026 "Village préféré des Français" ranking, behind Bormes‑les‑Mimosas and Dambach‑la‑Ville. The commune was praised for its nine sandy beaches, picturesque harbor, and scenic coastal trails that attract visitors seeking a quieter seaside experience.