Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, a must-see!

Beaulieu -sur-Dordogne is a must-see in the Dordogne Valley and a must- visit for any trip to the Corrèze region ! Since 2022, it has been listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. This superb medieval town is nestled on the right bank of the Dordogne River and enjoys a unique microclimate! Its heritage, natural surroundings, activities, leisure pursuits, and simply the pleasure of strolling through its streets make it truly special. It's also the perfect place to learn about the fascinating history of the bargemen on the Dordogne and take a ride (in the warmer months) on these characteristic flat -bottomed boats. Let us take you on a tour of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne – don't forget your camera!

A visit to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne

Let's set the scene right away: Beaulieu is the " Limousin Riviera," so grab your sunglasses! There's no official festival here, but almost. The local microclimate gives it lush vegetation that only enhances its paradisiacal charm. In the warmer months, Beaulieu is adorned with a thousand shades of green that shimmer in the clear waters of the Dordogne River. Enough with the poetry, what will we see as we stroll through Beaulieu?

First of all, some advice on parking in Beaulieu. It is one of the most visited villages in Corrèze and in summer, we recommend that you do not try to park in the centre… Instead, use the car parks and parking lots on the outskirts (follow the signs, Place du Champ de Mars, Place Albert, Quai Docteur Faugère or even at the Leisure Centre near the canoe pass) and take the opportunity to cross the town centre before reaching the riverbanks.

The ancient medieval town of Beaulieu is nestled in the center of Boulevard Rodolphe de Turenne, and this is the perfect opportunity to explain that Beaulieu's origins are linked to the powerful feudal family of the Viscounts of Turenne, Rodolphe being the founder of Beaulieu Abbey in 850. Its tranquility and strategic location near the river quickly attracted many visitors! Initially a Benedictine abbey, it grew in importance and became a place of pilgrimage at the crossroads of several routes. It then came under the protection of Cluny Abbey (located in Burgundy and renowned for its spiritual, artistic, economic, political, and social influence) at the end of the 11^th century. This change led to the construction of the Abbey Church of Saint-Pierre (one of the most beautiful in France). In the two centuries that followed, the town developed, as did the trade around the convent buildings. Beaulieu, by virtue of its past affiliation with the Cluniac Abbey (from 1095 to 1213), is part of the European Federation of Cluniac Sites.

As you arrive in the center of Beaulieu, head towards the Abbey Church of Saint-Pierre. You can visit it and learn more about the history of Beaulieu and the monastery. Admire its splendid sculpted tympanum depicting Christ with his arms outstretched to embrace humanity. Did you know it's the largest church in the department ? Continue along Rue Sainte-Catherine and the adjacent alleyways to admire the houses of medieval origin (La Tour Renaissance, La Maison Bouyssonie), with their half-timbered walls, timber framing, and sometimes corbelled construction (where the upper floors are wider than the house's footprint on the street). Retrace your steps, passing the five-story Renaissance House of Beaulieu (a listed historical monument). This superb private mansion is located on Place de la Bridolle, opposite the Abbey. You'll notice the sculpted statues on its facade. Now take Rue de la Chapelle down to the Quays and admire the original village center. The Chapel of the Penitents dates from the 12^th century; it was the first church in Beaulieu, later replaced by the abbey church. Events and exhibitions are held there in the summer.

Here you are on the quays of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. An absolutely delightful spot, especially pleasant in summer on hot days. Here, you can relax, stroll, take a ride on a traditional flat-bottomed boat (" Adèle et Clarisse "), swim in the Dordogne River, and admire the magnificent panorama. Take the Aubarèdes Footbridge to reach the island opposite the village center, where you'll enjoy an unparalleled view of the medieval town and the quayside. At this point on the river (the Aubarèdes site), it splits into three branches: the main channel and two canals, one for canoes and fish (the bargemen's canal), and the Bourrier canal. Since the footbridge is an obstacle on the river, it is complemented by a fish ladder to allow migratory fish to move freely within the riverbed. Interpretive panels explain how it works. On the Dordogne, you will sometimes see fishermen, families swimming and canoes.

What to do in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne?

• Gabares on the Dordogne River in Beaulieu : Gabares are flat-bottomed boats used to transport materials by navigating the Dordogne River. Wood was shipped from the Limousin region to the Bordeaux region for making wine barrels, vine stakes, construction materials, firewood, and more. Gabares were single-use vessels ! Like rafts, they were dismantled upon arrival. It was a hard time and a dangerous profession. In Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, as well as in Argentat and Spontour, you can take a trip on a gabare and hear the stories of these courageous men who braved the Dordogne for trade and to support their families.
  
• Canoeing or kayaking in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is a great idea! This activity, suitable for children aged 7 and up, is available from several rental companies in the area. A few routes are available, but they are generally long and don't always start from Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne itself (sometimes further upstream)! For a short family outing, choose a route of less than 10-12 km. Anything longer will take up a good half-day of paddling, and children might find it too long, as the river is wide and, depending on the season, it's not always possible to stop at the banks or islands. You can also rent stand-up paddleboards or inflatable tubes.
  
• The second Sunday of May is the Strawberry Festival in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne because it's a delicious little fruit that grows easily in the surrounding area, thanks to the mild climate! Mmm, Gariguette strawberries!
  
• The gourmet farmers' market takes place on Monday evenings in Beaulieu during the summer season (next to the Chapel of the Penitents). It's a festive and friendly event! The weekly market is held on Wednesday mornings in the Place du Champ de Mars. A traditional fair takes place on the 1^st and 3^rd Friday of each month.

We hope we've inspired you to visit Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne! See you soon for new adventures.

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