Date and Time (Original) – 2025:05:31 16:22:18
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The second village in our 2025 series of “The Most Beautiful Villages of France” is Villeneuve, located in the Aveyron department. This village was newly added to the official list in September 2024, making it a recent addition.
Interestingly, back in October 2024, when I went on a tour of the newly listed villages, I mistakenly visited a different Villeneuve located in Provence, thinking it was the right one. I remember feeling puzzled at the time — there was no one around, and the village didn’t give off the kind of atmosphere or excitement you’d expect from a place newly named one of France’s most beautiful villages. In hindsight, the village likely had just been added to the list, and no official information had yet been posted on the website, so there was hardly any available information.
Because of that mix-up, this time I made sure to research the correct location in advance — and thankfully, I was able to reach it without any trouble.
Speaking of the Aveyron department, it is home to many of France’s officially recognized beautiful villages, such as Conques, and they are all known for their high quality and charm. That said, to be honest, this Villeneuve felt a bit underwhelming in comparison to other villages in Aveyron. Of course, that’s just my personal impression, but it came across as average or even slightly below average in some respects.
Still, the central square of the village was definitely worth seeing, and being named one of the most beautiful villages in France means that future restoration efforts are likely. So, it might be worth revisiting in a few years if I happen to be passing nearby.
For a detailed description of the village, please refer to the information below.
Villeneuve (Aveyron), France – Overview Villeneuve is a medieval village located in the Aveyron department in southern France, recently classified among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (The Most Beautiful Villages of France) in 2024. Perched on a limestone plateau, it retains the charm of a 13th-century bastide (fortified town), with stone houses, arcaded squares, and winding alleys that reflect its rich historical and architectural heritage. The village offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and is known for its peaceful atmosphere, cultural significance, and preserved authenticity.
Key Features of Villeneuve (Aveyron):
- Founded in the 13th century – Established as a bastide town around 1231 by the Count of Toulouse, showcasing typical medieval urban planning with a central square and grid-like layout.
- Historic architecture – Features include arched passageways, Renaissance houses, stone façades, and a Gothic-style church (Église Saint-Sépulcre) with remarkable 14th-century frescoes.
- Population – Approximately 2,000 inhabitants, blending quiet rural life with cultural heritage.
- Elevated location – Positioned around 400 meters above sea level, offering views of the Aveyron landscapes and the Causse de Villeneuve plateau.
- Classified in 2024 – Officially added to Les Plus Beaux Villages de France in September 2024, acknowledging its historical preservation and aesthetic appeal.
- Cultural events – Hosts festivals, art exhibitions, and concerts, particularly in summer, often held in the atmospheric arcaded square.
- Natural surroundings – Located near scenic routes and hiking trails, including connections to the Lot Valley and nearby villages like Villefranche-de-Rouergue.
