© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Correze
On the Upper Dordogne this town sits on the border of the Lot and Correze regions
This medieval town on a bend in the Dordogne grew around its 9th century Benedictine abbey of Saint-Pierre.
Today the abbey church remains a classical example of Romanesque architecture from the 12th century, combined with a tower and belfry in Gothic design. Its southern portal is most impressive for its ornate sculptures.
The town's narrow streets are filled with attractive façades and it's worth wandering down to the lovely church by the river and taking a ride on the gabares boats. In May the whole town comes alive with an annual strawberry festival.
History & Culture in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
In the early Middle Ages, Beaulieu was a small fishing village surrounded by farms, on a bend of the Dordogne, called Vellinus. Lord of the family Turenne, Rudolph was riding on his land when he stopped in this small village. According to legend, amazed by the beauty of the place, he renamed the village Bellus Locus (Beau Lieu in altered Latin) and decided to found a Benedictine abbey to attract pilgrims and develop the territory.
Sights & Attractions in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
The Abbaye Saint-Pierre church that sits in the centre of the town is certainly one of the main attractions. It's a majestic building and enhanced further by a rather special tympanum (decorated area above the doorway). The stone carving depicts the Second Coming of Christ.
The 12th-century Chapelle des Penitents on the river's edge is a popular building to photograph, seen from across the river the reflections in the Dordogne are very beautiful.
The chapel itself houses temporary exhibitions and is open to the public during the busier summer months, from mid-June and mid-September. It also forms part of the guided tour offered by the tourist office.
Events in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
The town is famous for its wonderful strawberry harvest which is celebrated each year on the second Sunday of May. This annual festival brings together producers and consumers aplenty.
Things to do in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
One of the best ways to enjoy the Dordogne river and experience the real history of the region is to take a trip onboard a 'gabare' - a traditional flat-bottomed boat that was used to transport goods along the river. Taking around an hour and a half these guided trips with commentary allow you to discover the history of the skippers and the life of the boatmen.
Where to stay in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
Camping is particularly popular in this area of the Upper Dordogne. As well as a traditional campsite with good amenities situated by the river Dordogne, you'll also find a holiday village and a particular area dedicated to overnight stays with campervans. Sanitation is provided.
Hotels in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
This is a small town but there are several decent hotels in the very heart of it. A peaceful town means that you can enjoy a countryside feel wherever you stay and will always be just moments away from the popular Dordogne river.
How to get to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
Situated on the banks of the Upper Dordogne river the town of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne sits on the borders of Limousin, Auvergne and Quercy.
