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La Beaume You are coming into the foothills of the Cévennes mountains when all of a sudden you discover Beaume nestling against century old cliffs studded with grottoes. Your eyes then take in the sight and make you realise the will force and strength of character that was necessary to master the rock, cultivate the land and irrigate it. Surrounded on all sides by cliffs and ruin-like rocks the village fans out like an amphitheatre with its labyrinth of little passages and narrow, twisting alleys lined with humble houses made of pebbles and fine dwellings with arches and open balconies. Formerly the ground floor served as cellar and stables. Wisteria and Virginia creeper cling to the stones. Perching on its rock, the old castle watches jealously over the troglodyte dwellings and the medieval village. Below it, can be seen the remains of the old castle, a very old manor , formerly the property of the noble family of the Counts of Labeaume. The mill of the old Seigneurs is still standing and hanging gardens nestle against the cliffs. The inhabitants lived on the silk industry and the cultivation of the olive tree. You can still see some mulberry bushes and old oil-presses. Wayside Calvaries and dolmens punctuate your walk. Very close to the village lies the hamlet of Chapias dating from the Revolution. In July a festival of classical music is held. Information Town hall Tel: 04 75 39 64 23 Tourist Office: Tel: 04 75 93 91 90 |
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