This village in Normandy has just been voted France’s best place to live, according to 197 criteria.

A small village in Normandy has sprung a surprise. Little-known by tourists, it has nonetheless climbed to the top of the list of France’s most livable destinations. Here’s a closer look at this Calvados commune, seduced by its quality of life and unspoilt authenticity.

Epron, the Normandy village elected number one in 2026

The association Villes et villages où il fait bon vivre, in partnership with Le Journal du Dimanche, publishes a long-awaited annual ranking. To establish this ranking, over 197 criteria are carefully examined. These include quality of life for residents, safety, transport, health, municipal action and real estate appeal.

This year, the village ofEpron topped the ranking. The award is given to towns with between 500 and 2,000 inhabitants. This small village in Normandy came out on top against hundreds of other candidates.

“It’s the best village to live in.

An exceptional living environment on the outskirts of Caen

This magnificent town lies just outside Caen, in the Calvados département. Surrounded by vast green spaces, it offers a real immersion in Norman nature. What’s more, its proximity to the sea adds to its appeal.

The Normandy village has a warm, authentic atmosphere. There’s a wide choice of restaurants, shops and doctors. As a result, residents benefit from all the services they need on a daily basis.

• Close to Caen
• Large green spaces
• Quick access to the sea
• Wide choice of shops and restaurants
• Presence of doctors and health services

Other qualities of this Normandy village include its peaceful setting and tranquility. These assets appeal equally to families and retirees in search of serenity.

The rest of the podium of villages that are good to live in

Rounding out the podium is a destination much better known to tourists: Guéthary. This small village in the Basque country takes second place. Located between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, it boasts beautiful panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

In third place, however, was another village in Normandy. It’s Martinvast, just outside Cherbourg. This town offers a pleasant atmosphere and a wide range of services.

There’s a wide range of shops, schools, pharmacies, leisure centers and retirement homes. Martinvast meets the needs of all generations. Normandy demonstrates its ability to offer a remarkable quality of life.

Why these Normandy towns are so attractive

These Normandy villages have several things in common. Firstly, they are preserved from mass tourism, which guarantees a certain tranquility. Secondly, their natural heritage and authentic atmosphere attract those looking for a peaceful way of life.

The Normandy region also benefits from an advantageous geographical position. It’s within easy reach of Paris and offers fast access to the coast. As a result, these communities combine peaceful rural life with proximity to major conurbations.

A ranking that highlights French quality of life

This award highlights areas that are often overlooked by travelers. Yet these villages offer a rare balance between nature, services and authenticity. The success of Epron is a good illustration of this trend.

More and more French people are looking for this type of living environment. Far from saturated metropolises, a Normandy village like Epron represents an attractive alternative. The quality of the air, the greenery and the peace and quiet all play their part.

These Normandy towns are now attracting national attention. Their recognition in this ranking could well change the game for their future attractiveness. In the meantime, they continue to offer their residents a peaceful and pleasant daily life.

• Normandy village