What are the best campsites near Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne?
A nature-filled stay by the river
Set on two lush green islands in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, the Huttopia Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne **** campsite offers a holiday in close contact with nature. It provides pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes and campervans, as well as a range of accommodation options. With direct access to the River Dordogne and two heated outdoor swimming pools, the campsite is the ideal destination for a family holiday in a natural setting. Open from April to the end of September.
4-star campsite on the banks of the Dordogne
Located in Carennac, in the Lot, the L’Eau Vive **** campsite enjoys a leafy setting 15 km from Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne with direct access to the River Dordogne. It offers 90 pitches and 33 holiday rentals, as well as an outdoor swimming pool, a paddling pool and a range of activities such as canoeing and kayaking, fishing, mini-golf and table tennis. Entertainment s and a kids’ club are also available. The campsite is open from April to September.
Swimming pool and mobile homes by the river
Located in Bretenoux, in the heart of the Dordogne valley, Camping La Bourgnatelle *** is situated on the banks of the River La Cère and just 8 km from Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. Combining natural surroundings with proximity to the village centre, it offers pitches and mobile homes, as well as a swimming pool, play areas and various facilities for the whole family. Its location also makes it easy to enjoy the activities and tourist attractions of the Dordogne Valley. The campsite is open from May to October.image
A 3-star campsite with direct access to the Dordogne
Le Saulou *** campsite is situated in Monceaux-sur-Dordogne, on the banks of the river and 16 km from Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. It offers 150 pitches as well as mobile homes and chalets, in a peaceful, leafy setting. Holidaymakers can also enjoy a swimming pool, direct access to the River Dordogne and a wide range of sports activities and entertainment. The campsite is open from April to October.
A getaway by the river and in the countryside
Situated in Monceaux-sur-Dordogne, in Corrèze, the 4-star Camping La Vaurette is a campsite spread over 4 hectares, right on the banks of the Dordogne. With its 120 pitches, heated swimming pool and riverside activities, it offers the ideal setting to enjoy the Dordogne valley, combining nature and relaxation. The campsite is open from May to September and is just 14 km from Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne.
To discover all the campsites in Corrèze, click here.
What to do and see in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne?
A stroll through medieval alleyways and along the riverbanks
In Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, simply let the narrow streets guide you and you’ll fall under the town’s spell! The best place to start your stroll is along the banks of the Dordogne, where the pretty old houses and peaceful scenery invite you to take your time. You can’t miss the Chapelle des Pénitents, situated right by the water’s edge: built in the 12th century, this former parish church captivates visitors with its elegant bell tower and Romanesque architecture. Its location, almost with its feet in the river, makes it one of the most picturesque and photogenic spots in the village.
As you make your way up towards the old town, pass through the Porte de la Chapelle and then the Porte Sainte-Catherine, remnants of the old medieval walls. Beyond these gateways, the narrow cobbled streets reveal beautiful half-timbered houses, historic façades and charming architectural details. The whole atmosphere of Beaulieu unfolds as you stroll along: a town on a human scale, full of character, where every turn holds a lovely surprise. image
Saint-Pierre Church, a gem of Romanesque art not to be missed
No visit to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne would be complete without stepping inside Saint-Pierre Church, a former abbey church that ranks among the town’s greatest heritage treasures. Built in the Limousin Romanesque style, it impresses with its majestic proportions and ochre sandstone architecture. But it is above all its remarkable 12th-century carved tympanum, a true gem of Romanesque art, that catches everyone’s eye. This spectacular work depicts the glorious return of Christ, surrounded by the apostles and angels, in a richly detailed composition that bears witness to the talent of the sculptors of the time.
Inside, the exploration continues with the abbey’s treasury, which houses, in particular, a magnificent 12th-century silver Virgin and Child on a wooden core. This precious piece, steeped in history, is one of the jewels of Beaulieu’s religious heritage. With its beautiful architecture, exquisite carvings and rich collection of preserved works, St Peter’s Church offers a true immersion in the Middle Ages and is well worth a visit whilst strolling through the town.
The Maison de la Renaissance: a façade that tells a story
As you wander through the narrow streets of the historic centre of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, do take the time to stop in front of the Maison de la Renaissance. Its richly decorated façade immediately catches the eye with its sculptures and numerous details inspired by Renaissance art. This elegant residence bears witness to the town’s rich past and is well worth a brief stop to admire the finesse of its décor. Listed as a Historic Monument, it is one of the must-see attractions of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne’s heritage and adds a lovely touch of charm to a stroll through the village. Originally a private mansion, the house notably features a remarkable, monumental Renaissance fireplace, which is also listed as a Historic Monument. Now privately owned, it is not open to the public, but its façade remains a superb testament to the heritage of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne and the Corrèze.
A trip on a gabare on the Dordogne – an adventure the whole family will love
To discover Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne in a different way, hop aboard the ‘Adèle et Clarisse’ gabare! This river trip is a fun outing that should particularly appeal to children, who’ll be delighted to climb aboard this traditional boat and set off on an adventure on the water. Built in 2002 on the quays of Beaulieu using traditional methods, the gabare is a faithful reconstruction of a ‘courau’ – the flat-bottomed boats once used to transport goods along the Dordogne. Its name pays tribute to the last two female ferry operators from Beaulieu. Over the course of 45 minutes, the guided tour brings the history of the gabariers and river transport to life, whilst offering beautiful views of the town and the river. The gabare operates from May to October, with timetables varying depending on the season. For departure times and further information, please visit the Dordogne Valley Tourist Office or check the Tourist Office website.
Activities for everyone, combining nature and fine dining
In Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, holidays are all about the great outdoors! Sporty types can go canoeing on the Dordogne, whilst those who prefer a leisurely stroll can choose from a wide range of trails to explore on foot or by bike. When the weather is fine, a dip in the river is a lovely way to round off these nature outings.
Exploring the area also takes you to Beaulieu’s markets, perfect for sampling local produce and meeting local producers. In May, don’t miss the famous Strawberry Festival, a festive and gourmet event that brings the village to life with producers, entertainment and the impressive giant strawberry tart.
Finally, no stay in the region would be complete without indulging in its culinary specialities: Auvergne AOP cheeses, Rocamadour, Périgord walnuts and Limousin apples offer a delicious taste of the iconic produce to be discovered at the markets and in the best local restaurants. The perfect way to round off a day of exploration on a note that’s as generous as it is indulgent!