Fête de la Fraise (Strawberry fair)
Every year, on the second Sunday in May, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne celebrates the strawberry! Here you can buy all manner of gourmet produce made with strawberries of many types, from the 'fraise des bois' to the old and much loved French variety 'La Gariguette'. The highlight of the day is the cutting of the giant strawberry tart - 8 metres in diameter - made with 400kg of strawberries.
River barge cruises
The river barge in Beaulieu, named 'Adele and Clarissa', was built on the quayside in Beaulieu in 2002 using ancient construction methods. Nowadays visitors can take a guided river cruise down the Dordogne and learn all about the history of the river barges and the people who used them. Tours last approximately 1h15m.
Maison Renaissance
Situated in the heart of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, the 'Maison de la Renaissance' is classed as a historic building.
Les Tours des Merles
This 12th century citadel is situated on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by the river Maronne. The site includes a 10 hectares park with village remains, a restored farm, garden plants from the middle ages and animals.
Canal des Moines
Constructed in the 12th century, the Canal des Moines was built by the monks from the Cistercian abbey in Aubazine, in order to supply the monastery with water. It runs for a distance of 1.5km along the side of a rock and boasts spectacular views.
Gouffre de Padirac (Padirac caves)
The enormous chasm at Padirac is about 99m in circumference and a truly astonishing site from above ground. After a descent of 75m to enter the caves, you have the opportunity to take a boat trip on the underground waterways, and visit the spectacular caverns. Wet weather gear recommended as it can be rather damp!
Le Jardin de Lostanges (botanical garden)
These beautiful gardens, at an altitude of 500m, have an 800m long nature discovery trail. The gardens themselves cover an area of two hectares where you can see some 500 species of plant from across the globe.
Gimel-les-Cascades (Gimel waterfalls)
You'll know when you've arrived in Gimel-les-Cascades. The moment you step out the car there is no mistaking the thundering noise of the three successive waterfalls which tumble from a height of 143m. Follow the waymarked paths and explore this wonderful site.
Lac de Miel
A lake with beach and supervised bathing in July and August. Other activities on site include fishing, children's games, slides, diving platforms, pedal boat and canoe hire, and mini-golf. There is also entertainment in the summer months. Entrance fee in July and August.
Chateau de Castelnau
Just over the border into the Lot department, the Château de Castelnau is one of the finest examples of military architecture from the middle ages. Towards the end of the 19th century the Château was bought and restored by opera singer Jean Mouliérat, who assembled an eclectic collection of furniture, tapestries, and objects of religious art. Photo: © Lot Tourisme C. Novello