Fontevraud - a magnificent village and
In 2025 Fontevraud has been obtained the 11th position in the famous tv show 'The preferred Village of the French' hosted by Stéphane Bern!
We are so proud to have been shortlisted for this most famous television programme.
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Fontevraud l'Abbaye was awarded two prestigious distinctions in 2024: "Petite Cité de Caractère" (Small Town of Character) and "Plus Beau Village de France" (Most Beautiful Village in France). These recognitions crown centuries of preserved history and heritage, making our village an essential destination for lovers of art, history and gastronomy.
The "Petite Cité de Caractère" label highlights Fontevraud l'Abbaye's commitment to preserving and enhancing its rich architectural heritage. This designation is awarded to small towns that demonstrate a dedication to maintaining their historical character while providing modern amenities. From cobblestone streets to carefully restored facades, every corner tells a story, inviting visitors on a genuine journey through time.
The title of "Plus Beau Village de France" rewards the exceptional harmony between historical buildings and the preserved natural environment. This prestigious classification is given to villages that showcase outstanding architectural, cultural and natural heritage while maintaining a population under 2,000. It offers visitors a blend of tranquility, rest, and discovery, marrying the village's picturesque charm with its historical grandeur.
At the heart of this heritage gem, our hotel-restaurant La Croix Blanche Fontevraud, welcomes you for a stay or or meal while enjoying our heritage and history. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century coaching inn, the charming country hotel combines modern comfort with authentic surroundings. Each carefully decorated room offers a beautiful view of either the village or our flowered inner courtyard.
Our restaurant offers refined cuisine showcasing local products. Inspired by the region's gastronomy our local flavors will delight all palates. The wine list, featuring only Loire Valley wineries harmoniously complements our dishes.
Just a few steps from the hotel, the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, a jewel of medieval architecture, opens its doors at 10 o'clock evry day.
This exceptional Unesco World Heritage site, where the Plantagenêts royal family rests, will immerse you in over 900 years of history.
The Fontevraud Modern At museum houses a magnificent private art collection and temporary exhibitions are organised every summer (Monet, Rembrandt, Buffet, Chaisac) creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present.
For nature lovers, hiking trails and cycle paths winding through vineyards and the surrounding forests offer countless possibilities for exploration. The nearby Loire riverbanks will delight the adventourous cyclist and hiker.
Enjoy a romantic weekend, a cultural break or a gourmet getaway, our hotel and restaurant Fontevraud-l'Abbaye and our hotel-restaurant will provide discovery and emotion.
Come and experience the unique atmosphere of a doubly awarded village, where every stone, every street and every moment tells a thousand-year-old story.
Our team will be delighted to welcome you and make your stay an exceptional one, worthy of Fontevraud's prestige.
Looking forward to looking after you,
kindest regards,
Christophe & Mieke Chabenat, proud proprietors since 2005
We are so proud to have been shortlisted for this most famous television programme.
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Fontevraud l'Abbaye was awarded two prestigious distinctions in 2024: "Petite Cité de Caractère" (Small Town of Character) and "Plus Beau Village de France" (Most Beautiful Village in France). These recognitions crown centuries of preserved history and heritage, making our village an essential destination for lovers of art, history and gastronomy.
The "Petite Cité de Caractère" label highlights Fontevraud l'Abbaye's commitment to preserving and enhancing its rich architectural heritage. This designation is awarded to small towns that demonstrate a dedication to maintaining their historical character while providing modern amenities. From cobblestone streets to carefully restored facades, every corner tells a story, inviting visitors on a genuine journey through time.
The title of "Plus Beau Village de France" rewards the exceptional harmony between historical buildings and the preserved natural environment. This prestigious classification is given to villages that showcase outstanding architectural, cultural and natural heritage while maintaining a population under 2,000. It offers visitors a blend of tranquility, rest, and discovery, marrying the village's picturesque charm with its historical grandeur.
At the heart of this heritage gem, our hotel-restaurant La Croix Blanche Fontevraud, welcomes you for a stay or or meal while enjoying our heritage and history. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century coaching inn, the charming country hotel combines modern comfort with authentic surroundings. Each carefully decorated room offers a beautiful view of either the village or our flowered inner courtyard.
Our restaurant offers refined cuisine showcasing local products. Inspired by the region's gastronomy our local flavors will delight all palates. The wine list, featuring only Loire Valley wineries harmoniously complements our dishes.
Just a few steps from the hotel, the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, a jewel of medieval architecture, opens its doors at 10 o'clock evry day.
This exceptional Unesco World Heritage site, where the Plantagenêts royal family rests, will immerse you in over 900 years of history.
The Fontevraud Modern At museum houses a magnificent private art collection and temporary exhibitions are organised every summer (Monet, Rembrandt, Buffet, Chaisac) creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present.
For nature lovers, hiking trails and cycle paths winding through vineyards and the surrounding forests offer countless possibilities for exploration. The nearby Loire riverbanks will delight the adventourous cyclist and hiker.
Enjoy a romantic weekend, a cultural break or a gourmet getaway, our hotel and restaurant Fontevraud-l'Abbaye and our hotel-restaurant will provide discovery and emotion.
Come and experience the unique atmosphere of a doubly awarded village, where every stone, every street and every moment tells a thousand-year-old story.
Our team will be delighted to welcome you and make your stay an exceptional one, worthy of Fontevraud's prestige.
Looking forward to looking after you,
kindest regards,
Christophe & Mieke Chabenat, proud proprietors since 2005
