Gîtes in Belvès

Three iconic sites to discover in Belvès

Belvès packs several centuries of history into a small area. With its medieval ruins, underground dwellings and 19th-century architecture, the area offers a rich itinerary that will delight those with an interest in archaeology and rural heritage. A stay in a holiday cottage in Belvès allows you to wander at your own pace amongst these traces of the past.

1. The medieval village and towers of Belvès

Perched above the Nauze valley, the village of Belvès was founded as a medieval bastide and is listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. As you walk up the cobbled streets, you’ll come across stone towers whose pointed roofs rise above the tiled roofs of the surrounding houses. Several houses still retain their half-timbered façades, a reminder of a time when wood and stone were combined on the façades of the Périgord bourgeoisie. This distinctive silhouette makes Belvès a visual landmark from the surrounding countryside.

2. The cave dwellings of Belvès

Beneath the Place d’Armes lies a network of galleries hewn out of limestone, converted into underground dwellings from the 13th to the 18th century. These cavities offer a remarkable insight into life in troglodytic dwellings in the Périgord Noir. Now converted into a museum, the dwellings still bear traces of the hearths, benches and alcoves that shaped the daily lives of their inhabitants. The underground tour offers welcome coolness in summer and immerses visitors in an unusual atmosphere, far from the bustling village above ground.

3. Château de Campagne

About fifteen kilometres from Belvès, the Château de Campagne stands in the heart of a wooded park on the edge of the Forest of Bessède. This 19th-century Neo-Gothic building is owned by the State and welcomes visitors during Heritage Days. Lovers of historic architecture will discover the walls and roofs characteristic of Romantic architecture, whilst the wooded park surrounding it invites you to take a stroll amongst the trees.

These three sites form a heritage triangle around Belvès, where each visit deepens your immersion in local history and sets the scene for a relaxing return to your holiday cottage.

The ideal time of year to rent a holiday cottage in Belvès

Each season transforms the character of Belvès and its surroundings, with every time of year offering its own unique charms. The best time to rent a holiday cottage depends mainly on what you fancy: exploring the bastides in the summer sun, strolling through the villages as the weather warms up, or enjoying the tranquillity of autumn.

Spring brings the Périgord back to life. Temperatures gradually rise, flowers bloom in the gardens, and the cliffs overlooking Belvès regain their brightest colours. It’s the ideal time for walkers: the paths are drying out, the days are getting longer, and the tourist crowds are still few and far between. Rural holiday cottages allow you to make the most of these early outings without any time constraints, right from your morning walks.

Summer makes the area even more appealing. The days are warm and sunny, perfect for swimming in the Dordogne, visiting local markets, or picnicking in the surrounding woods. Festivals and cultural events come thick and fast. A holiday cottage becomes a welcome refuge from the hottest afternoons, offering the freedom to organise your days at your own pace, far from the constraints of hotel stays.

Autumn paints the Périgord in shades of rust and gold. Temperatures remain mild at the start of the season, the light turns golden, and the châteaux dotted across the region offer their most photogenic views. It is also the season for the grape harvest and bountiful markets. The gîtes, less crowded than in July and August, once again become peaceful bases from which to explore the surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Winter lends a contemplative atmosphere to Belvès and its neighbouring villages. Rain is more frequent, but days without bad weather remain clear. It is the ideal time for heritage tours, culinary outings, or simply for relaxing by the fireside. Holiday cottages with a fireplace become particularly cosy places.

Holiday rentals remain the most flexible option, whatever the season: you can organise your stay to suit you, without having to rely on the services of shared accommodation.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Belvès

The Périgord Noir offers much more than just a relaxing setting. Around your holiday cottage, a range of outdoor and exploratory activities await you, from underground heritage sites to riverside landscapes. Here are three experiences not to be missed during your stay.

1. Hiking along the trails of the Périgord Noir bastides

The paths winding around the medieval bastides of the Périgord Noir form an ideal network of walking trails for exploring the region on foot. These routes take you through wooded countryside, chestnut forests and the hilltop villages typical of the Dordogne valley. The trails are well signposted and suitable for all levels, from leisurely strollers to more experienced walkers.

Address: Place de la Croix-des-Frères, 24170 Belvès.

2. Swimming and canoeing on the Dordogne

The Dordogne is perfect for relaxation and adventure. In summer, its clear waters offer ideal conditions for swimming and canoeing or kayaking. You’ll paddle past limestone cliffs, wooded islets and unspoilt meanders. Local rental companies offer half-day or full-day trips, suitable for families and couples seeking a refreshing escape and gentle thrills.

Address: 24480 Le Buisson-de-Cadouin.

3. Visit to the prehistoric caves of Domme

The Domme caves bear witness to the archaeological richness of the Périgord. You descend underground to explore natural galleries carved out by water over millennia, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. This historical and geological site fascinates children and adults alike, offering a real insight into the region’s underground history.

Address: Place de la Halle, 24250 Domme.

Our guests’ favourite facilities when booking a holiday cottage in Belvès

When choosing a holiday cottage, the comfort of the facilities is just as important as the beauty of the setting. In Belvès, travellers look for well-equipped accommodation that allows them to extend the pleasures of the day without sacrificing essential amenities. From family evenings to moments of relaxation after a day of exploring, the facilities make all the difference in transforming an ordinary stay into a truly rejuvenating break.

• Fully equipped kitchen: preparing your own meals enhances the enjoyment of a family holiday. An oven, a dishwasher and modern appliances make it easy to organise impromptu lunches and dinners around the table.
• Efficient heating: in the Dordogne, temperatures drop in autumn and winter. Efficient heating ensures comfortable nights whatever the season.
• Private terrace or garden: having an outdoor space allows you to enjoy the fresh air and the Périgord countryside without leaving your accommodation.
• Wi-Fi connection: even whilst on holiday, staying in touch and sharing travel photos in real time is important to many people.
• Washing machine: essential for long stays or when travelling with children, it offers the independence and flexibility you’re looking for.
• Spacious living area: a comfortable stay depends on open-plan rooms where everyone can find their own space without feeling cramped.
• Private or free parking: in a medieval village, having a parking space makes it easier to get to your accommodation and organise day trips.
• Baby equipment: a travel cot, high chair and baby care essentials appeal to young parents keen to travel light.
• Air conditioning or ventilation: during the hot summer months, a cooling system makes for a much more comfortable night’s sleep.

A well-chosen holiday cottage will suit the number of people, the length of your stay and your budget. Every detail counts to ensure your holiday in Belvès leaves you with the best memories.

What is the average price of a holiday cottage in Belvès?

Prices for holiday cottages in Belvès vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small cottage sleeping two to four people, you can generally expect to pay between 45 and 70 euros per night. A family holiday cottage, suitable for six to eight guests, tends to cost between 80 and 140 euros per night. Larger properties or those fitted out with high-end facilities often exceed 150 euros per night.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Location plays a key role: a gîte in the town centre, close to shops and places of interest, often commands a higher rate than accommodation further out. The length of stay is also a significant factor. Owners regularly offer sliding-scale rates for stays of three nights or more, and even greater discounts for a full week: a reduction of 10 to 20 per cent compared to the per-night rate is common. Additional facilities and services (swimming pool, fully equipped kitchen, terrace, internet access) also influence the price.

Seasonal variations lead to significant price differences. During the peak summer season and school holidays, rates rise considerably. Off-peak periods, particularly in autumn and early spring, offer better value for money. To find the best value for money, it’s a good idea to browse several listings, check reviews from previous guests and book a few weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the peak tourist months.