The 14th season of France’s Favorite Village, the flagship program on France 3 hosted by Stéphane Bern, is officially underway! Since February 16, 2026, viewers across France can vote for their favorite village from a list of 14 selected spots representing regions all over mainland France and overseas territories. For Île-de-France, the village representing the region is Dampierre-en-Yvelines, in the Yvelines department, proudly flying the region’s flag.
Nestled in the heart of the Chevreuse Valley, just thirty kilometers southwest of Paris, Dampierre-en-Yvelines is far from an ordinary village. Its 17th-century château, designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart — the architect behind Versailles — along with its gardens crafted by André Le Nôtre, make this locale a true heritage gem. The estate is listed as a Historical Monument, and with a population of just over 1,000 residents, the village has successfully preserved an authentic rural charm despite its close proximity to Paris. All in all, a compelling candidate for recognition.
For the fourth time, a municipality from the Yvelines has entered the competition, following Montchauvet in 2017, Montfort-l'Amaury in 2020, and Rochefort-en-Yvelines last year. This should give the residents of Île-de-France even more motivation to rally together and bring home the victory!
This new season follows the coronation of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye in Isère, which was named France’s Favorite Village 2025. The winner for 2026 will be announced during a special televised event scheduled between late June and early July, where all 14 featured villages will be showcased in reverse order of ranking.
In short, it's a stunning showcase of France's diverse heritage — from medieval villages and postcard-perfect scenery to an Amazonian village founded by Hmong refugees in Cacao, Guyana, offering a true sense of escape. Voting is free and can be done online at france.tv, or by phone at 32 45 (calls cost €0.80 per minute plus the usual rates), until March 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM. If you're looking for a great way to support Île-de-France, now is the perfect time to get involved!
This town in Yvelines represents Île-de-France at the "Favorite Village of the French 2026" contest!
Nestled in the Chevreuse Valley, just about 40 kilometers from Paris, Dampierre-en-Yvelines is representing Île-de-France in the 2026 edition of France’s Favorite Village competition. Voting remains open until March 6, 2026. [Read more]And for some wonderful village discoveries in Île-de-France:
Escape around Paris with these 25 must-see getaways less than 100 km from the capital. [Read more]
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This town in Yvelines represents Île-de-France at the "Favorite Village of the French 2026" contest!
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