France's 'most beautiful secret escape' is fairytale town with ancient buildings

From Paris to St Tropez, France has many popular holiday hotspots that are favoured by Brits.

But one of it's most beautiful destinations dubbed the 'most beautiful secret escape' lies off the beaten track and often goes unnoticed by tourists.

The stunningly picturesque village of Le Malzieu-Ville, located in the south of France, is a medieval town that appears straight out of a fairytale. Nestled in remote countryside, the village looks as if it has been lifted from a storybook with its 13th-century architecture, stone houses and views across the idyllic green landscapes that envelop it.

Given its breathtaking views, it's no surprise that this medieval town has been dubbed France's 'most beautiful secret escape', according to research conducted by Avis. With a population of just 900 and situated off the beaten path, it's perfect for adventurous travellers looking to savour exquisite French cuisine and bask in the summer sun, all without the throngs of tourists found in other popular destinations like the French Riviera.

There's a wealth of history to discover, particularly for history enthusiasts, with highlights including the imposing castle of Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole, the town's Clock Tower, statues and ancient walls that encircle the town. For those keen on outdoor activities, there are numerous hiking and cycling trails in the area - and be sure to make room in your schedule for a visit to the scenic Porte des Fees rock formation, reports the Mirror.

One French visitor was enthralled by the "beautiful view, tranquil and relaxing", noting 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."

Meanwhile, another said: "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 historic town hosts a myriad of events, catering to all tastes. Among the highlights are the enchanting Medieval Festival, lively summer markets, and a bustling town-wide celebration in July adorned by sparkling fireworks over the nearby lake and delightful fairground rides.

Additionally, foodies won't want to miss the weekly market every Tuesday, offering a symphony of local flavours waiting to be savoured.

To help you plan your visit, Avis experts say: "Venture into the captivating charm of Le Malzieu-Ville in the heart of Lozere, where enchanting medieval architecture awaits. Be transported through time by the town's well-preserved stone houses and magnificent ancient fortifications. While Le Malzieu-Ville doesn't boasts its own major train station, reaching this gem is just a train ride away. Simply hop on a train to Marvejols from transport hubs like Clermont-Ferrand or Nimes, and embark on your enchanting journey."

Brits who are planning a trip to France should be aware of the new rules that have been implemented since Brexit. UK passports must now be less than 10 years old on the day of travel, and they need to have at least three months left after your return date.

These rules have been in place for some time now but continue to catch out holidaymakers, so it's worth checking your documents a few months before you set off to ensure you have enough time to renew them if necessary.

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