Wandering around Bellac Haute-Vienne, Limousin, France. A flavour of this picturesque town.

We visited Bellac in March 2023. Bellac is situated to the north-west of the Haute-Vienne department of Limousin, near the border with the Poitou-Charentes region. Bellac is beautiful, it’s surrounded by fields and woodlands, and its riverbanks are ideal for picnicking or a spot of fishing. An arched stone bridge - without a doubt the areas most photographed feature - offers a picturesque path into the town’s heart, which is awash with 15th and 17th- century properties From a distance, one can observe this staggered jumble of pastel shutters and rooftops, crowned by the tower of the Église Notre-Dame. For such a small place, Bellac has a long and fascinating history. In the Middle Ages, it thrived as a leather tanning hub - an industry still alive and kicking in nearby Saint-Junien, luxury leather-glove capital. In 1882, novelist and playwright Jean Giraudoux was born here; his childhood home is now open to the public as a museum filled with nostalgic paraphernalia. The market scene is strong in present-day Bellac, with three taking place every week! Not to be missed, the largest is held at the Champ de Foire on Saturday mornings, showcasing a breadth of tasty Limousin specialities.
The Pont de la Pierre in Bellac (13th century) spans the Vincou river and is one of the oldest medieval bridges in France. With its four arches, it was used by merchants on their way to Mortemart and the Atlantic coast. It is by this bridge that arrived the products of the sea, fish and salt, but also the wines of Charente.
The most important religious monument in Bellac is the Church of Notre-Dame, which stands at the highest point in Bellac and dominates the town skyline. Because of the extended period between work starting on construction of the church in the 12th century and its completion in the 15th century you can see elements of both roman and gothic style architecture.
There are also two chapels to see in Bellac: the Chapel of the Penitents, and the Chapel of Notre-Dame-Lorette.
After exploring the town centre you can head back to the bridge and take a stroll along the river banks. We recommend you also bring along provisions for a picnic on the riverside.
Market days in Bellac are Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Things to do near Bellac:
Close to Bellac you can enjoy the water based facilities of the Lac de Saint Pardoux. This leisure lake is popular with visitors and locals alike who enjoy the activities and watersports available on the water during the summer months, or around the lake during the rest of the year.
There are several small interesting villages near Bellac that you will want to explore, including Mortemart and Le Dorat.
Music: The Way Home by Zakhar Valaha
• The Way Home

[@zaff1784]

I remember this place from when I was a little girl

[@Pete827sli]

Thank you for your comment, it's a lovely place to grow up in.

[@Gareth.W]

A very sleepy town. Conveniently located for Limoges airport, and popular with Brits because the properties are cheap!

[@Pete827sli]

Thanks for your comment

[@Rifka.Seckler]

BEAUTIFUL PLACE!!! 😍

[@Pete827sli]

Thank you it was!