Welcome to Mialet!
Nestled in the lush forests of the Parc Naturel Perigord/Limousin, Mialet (known in the old Occitan dialect as Miallet) is a charming village in the North Dordogne region (Perigord Vert) of Southwest France.
This handy guide will help you discover the best sights, activities, and local gems during your stay.
A Brief History of Mialet
Originally named Mellet, the village was first recorded as Mialet in 1598, but has existed since the 11th century. Its strategic location made it a vital stopover for the weekly market dealing in agriculture and livestock. In 1339, during the Hundred Years' War, the English captured and burned Chateau Lambertie, a defensive stronghold which still stands today (privately owned in the far north of the commune).
By 1846, Mialet had established one of the earliest schools in the Dordogne, alongside its town hall, which still proudly graces the village centre. In the 19th century, improvements included building ring roads and relocating an ornate church door to the village square, before the demolition of the old church and cemetery.
At its height around 1900, Mialet's population peaked at 2,200 but has since stabilised at about 650, with signs of recent growth. The village also has rich links to community figures, such as Doctor Pierre Millet Lascombe, a former mayor who lived in the Chateau Lascombe, opposite our gite.
Explore the Barrage de Mialet
Only 1.4 km from the village centre, the Barrage de Mialet (reservoir) is a beautiful natural spot beloved by walkers, cyclists, and birdwatchers. A circular trail of roughly 9km invites you to explore this peaceful landscape. The reserve serves as a bird sanctuary and stopover on migration routes, where you can spot species such as the Great Crested Grebe, Mallard, Grey Heron, Water Hen, and Coot. During the autumn and spring migration periods, rare or accidental species may visit the reservoir, including Osprey, Winter Teal, Common Pochard, Shovel Ducks, Pintail, and Gadwall. You can also spot mudflat species such as Redshank, Dunlin, Curlew and the Little Ringed Plover.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate its rare amphibians, and the area is known for the Pearl Mussel and endangered species, such as the Yellow-Bellied Ringer amphibian, the Mercury Agrion dragonfly, as well as various butterflies, a white-clawed crayfish, and two fish species: the Sculpin and Lamprey of Planer. Fishing is permitted here with a licence available from the village post office. You can fish in the reservoir for Pike, Perch, Carp, Black Bass, Roach and Tench.
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 Dolman - 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, trading prized Limousin beef, piglets, calves, and potatoes.
Local Shopping and Amenities
Butcher: Specialising in local meats and homemade charcuterie including sausages, pies, pates and salads.
Baker: Fresh breads, croissants, delicious cakes, and in summer, ice cream.
Eco shop: Stocked with local produce, bio grocery, artisan goods and natural soaps.
Epicerie: Ideal for last-minute grocery essentials and off-licence
Post Office: For stamps, parcels and fishing licences.
Hairdresser: A full-service salon offering cuts, colouring and styling for all.
Plus, don't miss the vibrant Tuesday market in the village square, featuring fresh produce, local cheese, and other local delights.
Delicious Dining
- Casa O: The village brasserie offering friendly service, three-course set lunch specials, and Italian-style evening meals. Sit inside, on the veranda or under shady trees. Alternatively, you can pop in for coffee during the day or sit with just a drink from the bar in the evening.
- L'Infinie Bar: A welcoming spot to enjoy convivial drinks with locals and visitors alike.
- Epicerie and Eco Shop: Sit inside and enjoy a hot beverage at both.
- Pizza Van: Every Tuesday and Friday evening, freshly made pizzas are served from the village square.
Whether you are eager to explore the rich local history, enjoy the tranquil nature, or immerse yourself in village life, Malet offers a delightful blend of culture, tradition, and relaxation. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful corner of the Dordogne.
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 Miallet. 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.