Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne

A medieval town built on the right bank of the Dordogne, Beaulieu has been nicknamed the “Limousin Riviera” thanks to its mild climate, ideal for strawberry growing.

Nestling on the banks of the peaceful Dordogne river, it’s a delight to stroll along its romantic banks. Just beside the river, visitors can admire the picturesque Pénitents chapel and its delightful five-bay bell tower. A particularly photogenic spot, sure to delight lovers of waterside strolls…

The tour of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne’s heritage continues in the old town, which can be reached via the Porte de la Chapelle or Porte Sainte-Catherine. Lined with old houses, the typical cobbled streets huddle around an ancient Benedictine abbey founded in the 9th century by the archbishop of Bourges, Rodolphe de Turenne, of which the majestic Saint-Pierre church remains today. Take the time to admire the southern portal of the abbey church: its splendid 12th-century tympanum is a true gem of Romanesque art! Also worth seeing is the abbey treasure, on display in the north transept, which houses a magnificent 12th-century Madonna and Child.

Nearby, you can board a “gabare” from May to October, to relive the saga of the “gabariers” who used to sail down to Libourne to deliver their loads of wood for the Bordeaux cooperage.

If you love red fruit, don’t miss the famous strawberry festival that takes place every second weekend in May in the streets of the city!
It’s the Fête de la gariguette, a local specialty. On the program: farmers’ market, writers’ salon, gabare rides and a giant strawberry tart, 900 kilos of fruit 8m in diameter.

And to stock up on local produce, head to the local producers’ market held near the Pénitents chapel every Monday evening in July and August from 5pm.