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Annually, French people vote for their preferred village from 13 selected new villages representing metropolitan France’s 13 regions via a TV show on France’s Channel 3. French people vote based on many factors including beauty, heritage, gastronomic features, local crafts, activities, and great atmospheres, among others.
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In 2023, the village of Esquelbecq, conveniently located 50 minutes from Lille towards Dunkirk, ultimately won the crown. So, I immediately booked a regional TER train ticket to discover this village and understand why it was selected as the best French village this year.
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Esquelbecq: Le Village Préféré des Français
From Esquelbecq train station, it takes only about 10 minutes of walk to reach the centre of the village. On its path, there were visibly many large and cute houses which gave me the impression that this village is well maintained and loved by its residents.
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The centre of Esquelbecq is a small town square which features a beautiful church with a rather unique façade, some restaurants and cafés, and other commercial establishments. There’s also a wine store that looks super inviting to those who are into wines.
Here are some photos I have taken myself during my trip to Esquelbecq, the most preferred French village in 2023.
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The picture-worthy Esquelbecq Castle: Château d’Esquelbecq
I thought I found the partial answer why Esquelbecq was voted as the preferred French village by the French people when I saw the Esquelbecq Castle (French: Château d’Esquelbecq) which is located and attached directly to the village centre.
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Ready to explore Esquelbecq, one of France’s best villages? Let me know in the comments!
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