Living in the UK, we’re lucky enough to have thousands of amazing European destinations just a few short hours away. But some are definitely more popular than others—especially in the summer—and locals are sometimes less than happy with the number of tourists that flock there.
Because of this, more and more people are on the lookout for hidden gem destinations that are just as beautiful but without the crowds. According to Contik, a holiday spot must have this factor to be “considered perfect.” One of the most beautiful villages in Europe definitely fits the bill. You may not have heard of it, but it looks like something straight out of a Disney film.
Eguisheim, located in the wine-making region of Alsace, France, is a little-known village that should be added to your travel bucket list.
Maryanne Sparkes, French Rivercruise expert at European Waterways, raved about its beauty, saying: “Eguisheim’s secret lies in its unique layout — concentric circles of narrow lanes surround a central château, each lined with meticulously preserved half-timbered houses.
“This design, dating back to the 13th century, is rare in Europe and creates a magical village atmosphere, amplified by vibrant window boxes bursting with blooms in spring and summer.”
It’s said to be the inspiration behind Beauty and the Beast, and it’s not hard to see why. It boasts a distinctive medieval vibe that is worlds away from your typical European holiday destinations.
Local laws strictly protect the village’s architectural heritage, meaning no building facade can be changed without official permission.
This careful preservation maintains Eguisheim’s medieval character, which helped it win the title of “France’s favourite village” in 2013.
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Eguisheim, either. It’s home to a gorgeous castle, the Château Saint-Léon, which dates back to the 11th century.
You’ll find this right behind the fountain in the main square. However, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you’ll want to pay a visit to The Three Castles of Eguisheim, a set of ruins that are perched atop a hill overlooking the village.
Because it’s located in a wine-making region, the local beverages are a must-try. Visit family-run wineries to sample the region’s specialities, like Riesling and Gewurztraminer.
Domaine Gruss & Fils and Domaine Bruno Hertz are two of the most popular spots, where you can sample some delicious wines and purchase bottles to take home as gifts.