Gluges

Location: On the Dordogne river, at the bridge where the D840 between Martel and Gramat crosses the river.
Restaurants and shops: Hotel/restaurant les Falaises is open in summer. A second
In a nutshell: A tiny village huddled around its ancient chapel and the vestiges of ancient strongholds, Gluges grew up under the cliffs out of reach of the floodwaters of the Dordogne.

The tiny village of Gluges sits on the old thoroughfare which passes along the north side of the Dordogne valley. The little village church, built 200 years ago, superseded the ancient troglodytic chapel of Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens which was constructed by Gaillard de Mirandol on his return from the first crusade of 1095.

When the curé of the church needed to replace some windows, the work was funded by Edith Piaf who used to spend holidays in the area, loved Gluges and wanted her gift to remain secret. On her death in 1963 the curé was able to tell his congregation of her generosity and a special mass was held for her.

Crossing the bridge on the main road takes you to a buvette and tennis courts, open in summer, and the river beach facing the impressive cliffs, complete with lifeguard and safe swimming area in July and August. This is a nice area for strolling, picnicking and swimming. There is a good circular walk from Gluges to Martel via the "sentier botanique" and back via the GR46.

Gluges photo gallery

Conseil Général of Lot : Restoration of the chapel

May 2007 archeological excavations at the chapel

	The village of Gluges nestles under the cliffs
	The beach at sunset
	The beach seen from the opposite bank of the river, the lifeguard hut in place for the summer
	Cliffs overlooking the beach
	The old haulage path, and the road to Creysse
	The little chapel of St Pierre es Liens, constructed immediately after the first crusade of 1095
	The cross of the Knights Templar on the altar of the chapel
	Beautifully carved modillons (corbels) under the roof of the old chapel of St Pierre ès Liens