This small village in Calvados has just been voted France’s best place to live.

A small village in Normandy has just taken first place in a highly coveted ranking. According to the association Villes et villages où il fait bon vivre, in partnership with Le Journal du Dimanche, this Calvados commune offers a rare quality of life. Yet it remains little-known to travelers.

Epron: this Normandy village voted France’s most pleasant destination

Every year, the association Villes et villages où il fait bon vivre (Towns and villages where life is good) draws up a list of French towns and villages. Over 197 criteria are 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. This distinction is awarded to villages with between 500 and 2000 inhabitants. This small Normandy commune thus stands out from many other French destinations.

This Normandy village is located just outside Caen, in the Calvados département. It’s surrounded by vast green spaces. What’s more, the sea is nearby, adding to its appeal.

“It’s the best village to live in.

A living environment untouched by mass tourism

Epron has a warm, authentic atmosphere. There’s a wide choice of restaurants, shops and doctors. In addition, the village’s tranquil setting is one of its major assets.

It’s a town that’s little-known to tourists, which helps it retain its peaceful character. Indeed, its inhabitants enjoy a serene daily life, far from the crowds. This quality of life is now attracting attention to this Normandy destination.

• More than 197 criteria evaluated to establish the ranking
• Villages concerned: between 500 and 2000 inhabitants
• Close to Caen and easy access to the sea
• Nearby shops, restaurants and health services
• Quiet, untouched by mass tourism

France’s most livable villages

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 ocean views.

Third place goes to Normandy, with the town of Martinvast. This destination is just outside Cherbourg. It offers a pleasant atmosphere, as well as a wide range of services.

Services include shops, schools, pharmacies, leisure centers and retirement homes. Martinvast offers a complete environment for its residents. This second village in Normandy confirms the region’s appeal.

Why Normandy is so attractive in this ranking

Two Normandy villages feature in the top 3. This result testifies to the quality of life offered by this region. The region’s lush greenery, proximity to the sea and local services are all factors in this success.

France is full of beautiful destinations, from large metropolises to authentic villages. And yet, these small Normandy communities are the real winners. They offer a rare balance between nature, tranquility and access to amenities.

A Normandy village to keep in mind for 2026

Epron is the benchmark for quality of life in France. This Normandy village, still untouched by mass tourism, deserves special attention. Its assets appeal equally to families and those in search of serenity.

For those looking for an authentic destination, this Calvados commune is a wise choice. Its proximity to Caen makes it easy to get around. What’s more, access to the sea means you can enjoy the Normandy coastline without the crowds.

This ranking brings to light nuggets often overlooked by travelers. The villages of Normandy, notably Epron and Martinvast, prove that the region offers much more than its D-Day beaches. The living environment is exceptional, and services meet everyday needs.

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