Oingt: The medieval gem of Beaujolais (45 mins from Lyon)
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Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Oingt (pronounced “ou-in”) is a real-life postcard scene. Cobblestone streets, golden old stones, colorful shutters, and local craftsmanship… It feels just like Sophie’s village in Howl's Moving Castle. Bonus: breathtaking views of the vines stretching endlessly. A dream.
Pérouges: The movie set that has remained untouched (40 min from Lyon)
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A classic, for sure, but the atmosphere is timeless. This perfectly preserved medieval town has served as a backdrop for several films. One can easily imagine Wes Anderson shooting a still scene here with a soundtrack by Jarvis Cocker. Tip: come early in the morning or at sunset for that magical vibe.
Sainte-Croix-enJarez: The old charterhouse (1h from Lyon)
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Unique in France, this village is... an old converted monastery. Yes, literally. With its massive doors, shady alleyways, lovely courtyards, and simple houses, it perfectly blends the rural Japan of Miyazaki with a forgotten Italian village from art-house cinema. Absolute tranquility guaranteed.
Ternand: The postcardlive ale (50 min from Lyon)
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Less known than its neighbors, Ternand is a hidden gem in the heart of Beaujolais. Fortifications, small arcades, secret passages, nearby vineyards… it feels like being in an coming of age movie by an indie director. It’s the kind of village where time slows down just enough.
Yzeron: Gentle Mountain and Nature Vibes (45 min from Lyon)
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Nestled in the Monts du Lyonnais, this charming little village has a bohemian retreat vibe. The air feels fresher, and you can stroll along at a leisurely pace. It’s the kind of place where a Miyazaki character might come to heal their wounds in silence.
Salles-Arbuissonnas-en-Beaujolais – The Elegant
hidden cache (1h from Lyon)
Ternand: The postcardlive ale (50 min from Lyon)
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A long name for a charming little village. Convent-museum, cloister, old houses… you can easily imagine The Wind Rises settling here for a moment of melancholy.
Saint-Haon-le-Châtel – The Forgotten of Time (1h45 from
Lyon)
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A tiny medieval village tucked away in the Loire, often overlooked but with a true charm. Ancient walls, narrow alleys, faded colors... almost unreal. It feels like a painting come to life.