Day trip to Belvès

Nestled in the Nauze Valley, the village of Belvès is located in the Périgord Noir, known for its oak trees as far as the eye can see. It is a must-see destination for lovers of medieval heritage and nature.

For a day, come with us to meet the remains of the Middle Ages and modernity.

How to get to Belvès?

To get to the village of Belvès, you will have several options.

By car

This is the most flexible choice to move wherever you want. Belvès is easily accessible by car from major cities such as Périgueux (1 hour by car) or Bergerac (55 min).

The advantage of coming by car is to discover little by little the varied landscapes of Périgord during the journey. Forests and hills are part of the scenery and change colors according to the seasons.

There is a car park at the entrance to the town where you can park and admire the surrounding landscape.

By train

Do you prefer to leave the car in the garage? The train is an eco-responsible solution for a more peaceful journey.

The nearest train stations are Périgueux and Bergerac. You will then need to take a bus or taxi to reach Belvès.

A look back at the city's historical past

The Middle Ages are still very present when you arrive in Belvès. Indeed, the village developed around a castrum, a fortress that dominates the Nauze valley. This strategic position makes it a place of power and an important economic center.

Belvès is nicknamed the “city of seven bell towers” because of the presence of many churches and chapels. They are the symbol of the faith and wealth of the city.

Thanks to its classification as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, Belvès has managed to preserve its medieval heritage and visitors flock to visit the area.

Ask at the tourist office

When you arrive on site, there is nothing better than going to the tourist office to find out everything and not miss anything in the city. It is located opposite the belfry.

Tourism professionals give you all the information you need to organize your visit to Belvès : activities not to be missed, restaurants where to eat or local events taking place in the coming days. Guided tours take place thanks to audio guides. You can also find maps of the village with a free tour.

Want to buy tickets for the cave houses or Belvès Castle ? The tourist office takes reservations and sells tickets to major museums.

The must-see places in Belvès during my visit

For you, we visited Belvès and we share our must-see places with you.

The Place d’Armes, the market hall and the troglodytes of Belvès

In the heart of Belvès, let's discover together the Place d'Armes. It is the lung of the village, the place where onlookers and tourists meet. It is also called the Market Square, because it is on this place that the weekly Saturday morning market takes place.

Overlooking the square, the 15th century market hall is an architectural treasure. The market is also home to the market producers. But that's not all! Under this hall lies a well-kept secret: troglodyte dwellings dug into the rock. These are witnesses to the life of the inhabitants of Belvès who take you on a journey through time. Take a guided tour of the eight underground rooms.

The Belvès castrum

This jewel of medieval architecture is a must-see if you visit the Périgord Noir. Set on top of a hill, this real fortified castle has a breathtaking view of the Nauze valley.

It played a crucial defensive role during the Norman invasions. Today, the castrum retains original elements such as: the city gate, the Auditor's Tower which is a former keep and the bell tower-porch. Here, no one can pass without risking leaving coins there...

As we walk along, a remarkable building faces us with stained glass windows, columns, pointed arches and sculpted coats of arms. This original façade shows a new facet of the medieval Perigord character found in the village. This building is dedicated to Pope Clement V, former Archbishop of Bordeaux and Lord of Belvès in the 14th century.

Belvès Castle

At the bend of a perpendicular street, the famous Belvès castle appears. It contains wall paintings that are unique in Aquitaine, discovered during restorations in 2010. The entrance door is imposing and intriguing at first sight.

Originally, this jewel of medieval architecture was known as the Hôtel de Commarque.

The owners organize exceptional guided tours from time to time.

The convent of the Preaching Brothers in Belvès

This building full of history had a major impact on the city and its inhabitants. It was founded outside the fortified walls of Belvès and marked the beginning of the expansion towards new districts.

Initially, schools were opened inside but, little by little, they closed and the convent became a national asset purchased by the commune of Belvès.

The bell tower is the most visible element of the convent, a true emblem of Belvès.

Discover the surroundings of Belvès

To continue your stay in Périgord, here are some examples of visits to make near Belvès:

• Limeuil (19 minutes away) and its beaches to cool off in the summer;
• Lalinde (30 minutes by car) with its half-timbered houses;
• Sarlat (34 minutes away) with the medieval city of Périgord and its Truffle Festival ;
• Rouffignac (43 minutes by car) with its unmissable caves ;
• Vergt (49 minutes by car) where you can find a treetop adventure for the whole family...

Did you like our article? Find more on the BLOG.

Follow us on the Guide du Périgord Facebook page and on our Instagram account @guideduperigord