Your base in the Périgord Vert
Beaux Souvenirs sits on the edge of Mialet, a quaint village in the heart of the Parc Naturel Périgord-Limousin, positioned equidistant between Limoges and Périgueux. Surrounded by ancient forests, moorlands and natural meadows shaped by centuries of farming, it's one of those places that feels genuinely unhurried. Day-to-day essentials are right on your doorstep.
We've put together this guide to help you get the most from your time here, from Mialet's interesting history to the Barrage reservoir just 1.4km from the village.
A Brief History of Mialet
Originally named Mellet, the village was first recorded as Mialet in 1598, though it has existed since the 11th century. Its position on a key trading route made it a natural stopping point for the weekly livestock and agricultural market. In 1339, during the Hundred Years' War, the English captured and burned Château Lambertie — a defensive stronghold that still stands in the far north of the commune, though it remains privately owned and not open to visitors.
By 1846, Mialet had established one of the earliest schools in the Dordogne, alongside a town hall that still graces the village centre today. The 19th century brought further improvements: new roads and the relocation of an ornate church door to the village square, before the old church and cemetery were eventually demolished.
At its height around 1900, Mialet's population peaked at 2,200. Today it sits at around 650, with signs of recent growth. The village also has a notable local connection — Doctor Pierre Millet Lascombe, a former mayor, lived at Château Lascombe, directly opposite our gîte, Beaux Souvenirs.
Explore the Barrage de Mialet
Just 1.4km from the village, the Barrage de Mialet is a beautiful reservoir and one of our favourite local spots. A circular trail of around 9km takes you through a peaceful landscape of water, woodland and open meadow — equally popular with walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers. Picnic benches and tables are dotted along the route, and there's even a series of outdoor gym stations at intervals around the trail. Imagine working out with views across the lake.
What you might spot:
The reservoir is a designated bird sanctuary and migration stopover. Regular visitors include the Great Crested Grebe, Mallard, Grey Heron, Water Hen and Coot. During spring and autumn migration, rarer species sometimes appear — Osprey, Teal, Pochard, Pintail and Gadwall among them. Along the mudflats, look out for Redshank, Dunlin, Curlew and the Little Ringed Plover.
The area is also known for rare amphibians and insects, including the Pearl Mussel, Yellow-Bellied Ringer amphibian, Mercury Agrion dragonfly and white-clawed crayfish. Fishing is permitted on the reservoir. You can fish for Pike, Perch, Carp, Black Bass, Roach and Tench — licences are available from the village post office. Ask us for current prices and the best spots.
Village highlights
Our Lady of Mount Carmel/Notre-Dame-du-Scapulaire:
This beautiful church, built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style, stands in the square of the same name. The bell tower is the oldest section and may have been part of the original village walls. Inside, admire the gilded statue of Saint Roch, the village protector against epidemics, especially the plague! Outside is a lovely old flat Dolmen - historically used to hold coffins while waiting to enter the church.
Village Square:
Home to an old village well and striking iron sculptures of Egrets and Cranes by local artist Roland Malin (introduced in 2022), reflecting the importance of migratory birds to the area.
War Memorial and Tree of Life:
A poignant monument commemorates villages lost during the 1870 Franco-Prussian War, shaded by a symbolic Tree of Life.
Historic Weighing Station:
Located near the school, this relic recalls a bygone era when Mialet hosted bustling livestock fairs, where traders sold prized Limousin beef, piglets, calves, and potatoes.
All within a five-minute stroll
Essential Services:
- Bakery: Fresh breads, croissants, delicious cakes, and, in summer, ice cream
- Butcher: Specialising in local meats and homemade charcuterie, including sausages, pies, pates and salads
- Post Office: For stamps, parcels and fishing licences
Shopping:
- Eco Shop: Stocked with local produce, bio grocery, artisan goods and natural soaps
- Weekly Market: Don't miss the vibrant Tuesday market in the village square, featuring fresh produce, cheese, and other local delights.
Other Services:
- Hairdresser: Full-service salon offering cuts, colouring and styling for all
Delicious dining
After a day out in Mialet, these options are all within walking distance of Beaux Souvenirs.
Casa O The village brasserie — friendly service, three-course set lunch specials and Corsican-style evening meals. Sit inside, on the veranda or under the shade of the trees. You can also pop in during the day for a coffee or sit with just a drink from the bar in the evening.
Eco shop Sit in and enjoy a hot beverage — a good spot for a quiet half hour.
Pizza van Every Tuesday and Friday evening, freshly made pizzas from the village square. Simple, good and popular with locals.
Ready to make Mialet your base? Beaux Souvenirs is just a five-minute walk from everything the village has to offer.
Things to See & Do
Top 12 Attractions
There are many places to visit and things to do in this area. Here are your host's top 12 favourites.
What to See in Our Region
There are countless places to visit within a 2-hour radius of Mialet. Here are the main sites, including drive time and distance.
Where & What to Eat
Eating out is a fabulous experience in this part of France and there is a huge variety of establishments to choose from.
Festivals & Events
Annual calendar of festivals & events in the Dordogne and nearby departments.
Sports & Outdoors
The North Dordogne or Perigord Vert is a perfect location for those with a great affinity to the great outdoors.