Chapelle Notre-Dame de Capelou

A peaceful pilgrimage in the hills above Belvès

Hidden among the trees, just outside the medieval village of Belvès, lies a place of remarkable calm and quiet devotion: the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Capelou. For centuries, this humble chapel has offered rest to pilgrims, hope to the faithful, and silence to those simply looking to step away from the noise of everyday life.

It may not shout for attention—but Capelou speaks to the soul.

A Sacred Spot with Deep Roots

The origins of Capelou go back far beyond the building we see today. Local legend tells of a miraculous spring that once flowed here, believed to heal the sick. For this reason, the hilltop became a place of prayer long before the current chapel was built. People would climb the path barefoot, light candles, and leave offerings in gratitude or hope.

The present chapel dates from the 17th century, constructed on the site of a much earlier place of worship. Its name comes from the Occitan word capelou, meaning “little chapel”—a nod to both its size and its affection in the hearts of locals.

Its walls may be simple, but the faith and tradition surrounding Capelou are rich and enduring.

The Assumption Pilgrimage

Every 15 August, Capelou comes to life. Pilgrims from across the region gather here to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, honouring the Virgin Mary. This is no dusty relic of the past—people still come today, some on foot, others by car, to take part in the open-air mass and procession through the trees.

Bells ring, flowers are laid at the foot of the statue, and the chapel becomes a vibrant place of reunion, remembrance, and reverence. It's one of the oldest continuous pilgrimage traditions in this part of Périgord.

“I’ve come here every August since I was a little girl,” says one local woman. “It’s where you come to give thanks, or to ask for something, quietly.”

Even outside the feast day, the site is visited by walkers, families, and anyone seeking a bit of peace in nature. The gentle walk up the path offers time to reflect and listen—to birds, to the rustle of leaves, and perhaps, to yourself.

A Natural Sanctuary

The chapel is surrounded by the forest of Bessède, one of the green lungs of the area. This makes Capelou a perfect stop on a walking route, or a short detour from a country drive.

Many visitors bring a picnic, resting under the trees in the dappled light after lighting a candle inside. There are benches, grassy banks, and a steady sense that time moves more slowly here.

You’re only a few minutes from the bustling heart of Belvès, but you’d never know it.

Architecture and Atmosphere

The chapel itself is small and stone-built, with a modest interior that reflects its rural character. The pointed arched windows let in soft light, falling on a simple altar and the statue of the Virgin Mary that remains the focus of devotion.

Outside, a covered well and traces of older stonework suggest that this site has been cared for, rebuilt, and preserved again and again. Though the building is plain, the atmosphere is powerful—many visitors speak of feeling moved by the quiet, sacred air of the place.

It’s the kind of spot that doesn’t need words.

The Way to Capelou

Capelou is easily reached from Belvès town centre. A short walk or drive takes you out of the village and up a gently rising track into the forest. Parking is available nearby, and well-worn paths lead to the chapel. It’s suitable for most walkers, including families, and offers shaded stretches perfect for a hot summer’s day.

In the spring and autumn, the forest is particularly beautiful—bursting with wildflowers or golden with falling leaves. Even in winter, the bare trees add a stillness that suits the chapel’s quiet nature.

Local Connection, Living Tradition

Unlike many historic buildings, Capelou is not just a site from the past. It continues to play a role in local life. The Assumption pilgrimage remains a key date on the calendar, and occasional services or gatherings are still held here.

“When I come here, I feel like I’m part of something older than myself,” says a young man who walked up from the village one morning. “It’s not just a place; it’s a feeling.”

That sense of continuity is perhaps what makes Capelou so special. It’s not famous or grand, but it is cherished—and that gives it life.

Tips for Visitors

Open daily: You’re free to visit any time during daylight hours.

Peaceful surroundings: Please help preserve the quiet by keeping noise low.

Bring a candle: If you’d like to leave a prayer or light a candle, feel free.

Don’t rush: Take time to explore the forest, listen to the birds, or sit quietly.

Combine with a walk: Capelou is part of several marked trails and is ideal for a nature walk.

Nearby Highlights

Belvès town centre – medieval charm, market hall, cafés and views.

Château de Belvès – home to rare Renaissance frescoes.

Troglodyte dwellings – historic homes dug into the cliffs.

The Bessède Forest – extensive trails, wildlife, and hidden chapels.

A Place to Return To

Whether you come with a prayer, a picnic, or a pair of walking boots, Notre-Dame de Capelou has something to offer. It’s not a tourist hotspot, and that’s exactly the point.

This is a place of gentle devotion, quiet tradition, and deep connection to the land. It’s one of those places that welcomes you without saying a word—and once you’ve found it, you may find yourself coming back.

“Capelou isn’t somewhere you tick off a list,” a visitor once said. “It’s somewhere you carry with you.

The Miraculous Spring

The oldest and most enduring legend is that of a miraculous spring near the chapel, said to have healing powers. According to local lore:

The Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd on the wooded hillside and revealed the location of a hidden spring. She told him the water would heal the sick who came in faith.

The spring soon became a pilgrimage site, and people travelled from miles around to seek healing for blindness, skin ailments, or joint pain. Some stories say that children who couldn’t walk were able to stand after being bathed in its waters.

Even though the spring no longer flows visibly, candles are still lit in memory of these cures, and the tradition of pilgrimage lives on.

Older villagers recall that in the past, pilgrims would walk barefoot up the wooded path to Capelou on the Feast of the Assumption, often in silence, as an act of penance or devotion. Some would climb the slope on their knees, asking for a miracle or giving thanks for one.

"If you hear the bell, your prayer will be heard"

There’s also a tender superstition that if the wind carries the sound of the chapel bell to your ears while you're praying, it means that the Virgin has heard you—and that your request, if sincere, may be granted.