5 Magical Medieval Villages in France (You Won’t Believe Your Eyes)

4. Eguisheim, Haut-Rhin

Photo: Patrick (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Situated in the Alsace wine region, Eguisheim is a circular village with narrow, cobblestone streets winding concentrically around a central square where you can find the Saint-Leon fountain and pastel-colored houses decorated with bright flower boxes. Eguisheim is part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” association.

The village was the birthplace of Pope Leo IX and has a religious history. Surrounding the village are rolling vineyards that produce some of Alsace’s best Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. Many wineries offer tastings right in town. The annual Fête des Vignerons (Winemakers’ Festival) offers parades, traditional music, and regional food.