France highlights medieval towns and Basque villages for tourism

Several French towns and villages are gaining recognition for their historical preservation and tourism appeal. In the Finistère region, Concarneau is highlighted for its remarkably well-preserved Ville Close and historic ramparts.

Other notable locations include Sarlat-la-Canéda in Dordogne, which features over 60 historical monuments and well-preserved medieval architecture, and Ribeauvillé in Alsace, known for its timber-framed houses and castle views. Aigues-Mortes in Occitanie is also recognized for its defensive walls situated near the Mediterranean Sea.

In the Basque Country, the village of La Bastide-Clairence has recently joined the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France' ranking. Located near Bayonne, the village is noted for its authentic atmosphere, 17th-century stone arcades, and proximity to the Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle pilgrimage route.