Belcastel In SW France – Medieval Heritage

Belcastel is one of the ‘Plus beaux villages de France’ (nominated as one of the most beautiful villages in France).

The village is medieval in character, with cobbled streets and lauze-roofed (stone tiled) houses. The bulk of the village and the castle (Château de Belcastel) are situated on the steep north bank of the Aveyron river. Several buildings including the 15th-century church (Eglise Sainte Madelaine) are on the south side of the river, with a similarly aged bridge connecting the two.

A ruined fort can also be found about a kilometre west of the village on the south bank of the river.

The local council regularly hosts watercolour competitions and art exhibitions during the summer. You will see why when you visit as it is a stunning backdrop for any budding artist or photographer.

A good day out is to combine your visit to Belcastel with a tour of Château du Bosc which is nearby. 

Château du Bosc was the childhood home of Toulouse-Lautrec and is still owned by the families descendants . Today Nicole Tapie de Celeyran will be there to welcome and show you round.