Pérouges, medieval city

Journey back to the Middle Ages in the charming village of Pérouges: a plunge into the past in a veritable cinema set, with its typical little houses and lively village life. Whether it’s a medieval festival, costumed tours or the Pérouges springtime, there’s always a good reason to visit one of France’s most beautiful villages.

Charm and history

From the top of its hill overlooking the Ain plain, this ancient weaving town will surprise you. Here, you enter the authentic, unspoilt atmosphere of a medieval village.

Old stones, medieval houses, the atmosphere of a village forgotten by time is striking. It continues to be used as a set for period films for its rare authenticity.

At the end of the streets, under the arch of a gateway to the town, the landscape opens out onto the plain. A moment out of time, perfectly suited to theatrical guided tours or a colorful medieval festival!

We love the narrow streets and medieval atmosphere, which transport us back in time and history. I love taking my Parisian family to taste the famous Galette de Pérouges, a real local treat. It would be a real shame to leave Pérouges without tasting this delicacy.

In the shade of the lime tree

The massive, imposing fortified church, both a place of worship and a defensive structure, keeps watch over the village. Between half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, you’ll take a stroll through time and eras!

Take a break in the central square, between timber-framed and corbelled houses. Settle into the hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges, a veritable institution since the 13th century, and savor the moment to the full. On the square stands the majestic Liberty lime tree: planted in 1792, it is an emblem of the village.

Here, it’s easy to forget the passage of time. So don’t be surprised if you happen to come across a lady in a long dress and headdress on the arm of a knight in shining armor.

GOOD TO KNOW

The galette de Pérouges

Legend has it that the galette de Pérouges was created by a local woman to please a king. The recipe: a lemon-scented leavened pastry deliciously topped with a butter-and-sugar-based cream.

In 1912, Marie-Louise Thibaut, owner with her husband of the emblematic Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges, took over and adapted this local recipe, until then reserved for Fridays.

The galette au sucre de Pérouges was officially born. Since then, it has been enjoyed in all seasons and at any time of day: as a dessert, breakfast or snack, it’s sure to delight gourmets!