Things To Do
in Beaumont

Beaumont is a picturesque town in central France where historic stone buildings line winding lanes and a gentle river threads through the heart of the town. The atmosphere blends medieval charm with a welcoming, modern sensibility, making it a popular stop for food lovers and outdoor explorers. Local markets, cafés, and seasonal festivals showcase regional produce and craftsmanship with a warm, communal vibe.

Surrounded by rolling hills and rural landscapes, Beaumont serves as a convenient gateway to the Auvergne countryside and nearby Loire Valley scenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploring Beaumont
morning
:

Arrive in Beaumont, and settle into your charming hotel. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets lined with medieval architecture. Grab a coffee at a local café while soaking in the ambiance of this quaint town.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Beaumont Castle to learn about the region's rich history. Spend some time wandering the surrounding gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the greenery. Don’t forget to take photos of the panoramic views!

evening
:

Dine at a traditional French bistro, sampling local specialties and fine regional wine. As the sun sets, enjoy a gentle walk back to your hotel, taking in the beautifully lit streets. End your day with a glass of cognac at a nearby bar, reflecting on your first day in this lovely town.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market, where you can sample fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with the friendly vendors and learn about local culinary traditions. This is a great opportunity to pick up ingredients for a picnic later on.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class that focuses on traditional French cuisine, guided by a local chef. You'll learn how to prepare a classic dish, which you can later enjoy and share with fellow participants. After the class, explore some nearby artisanal shops.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant known for serving dishes made with market-fresh ingredients. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather to unwind after a busy day. End the evening with a leisurely stroll, admiring Beaumont's vibrant nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee at café$2-4
🧀Cheese platter$6-12
🚶Local transit ride$1-3
🏨Hotel nightly$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with strong regional cuisine
  • Accessible nature and scenic hiking routes nearby
  • Walkable town center and welcoming locals
  • Good selection of markets, cheeses, and wine
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport outside the town can be spotty
  • English may not be widely spoken in all venues
  • Seasonal crowds in market periods can mean limited parking
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
  • "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
  • "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
  • "Je voudrais…" - I would like…

Places to Visit in Beaumont

Visit one of these nice places.

Place du Beffroi (Town Belfry Square)

A charming medieval square with the belfry, stone facades, and daily life scenes—ideal for street photography and golden-hour shots.

Beaumont Cathedral

Remnant architecture with Gothic and Romanesque elements, set against cobbled streets and balconies bearing hanging plants.

Riverside Promenade along the Allier

Quiet riverbank paths, bridges, and reflections especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Old Market Hall

Timeless market hall architecture with clerestory windows and stalls that make for atmospheric architectural photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beaumont

Beaumont’s cuisine reflects its Auvergne heart: hearty, cheese-forward dishes, rustic breads, and fresh regional produce. Expect comforting fare, generous portions, and a strong emphasis on local dairy and pork specialties.

Beaumont Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Truffade

A rustic potato dish melted with local cheese, typically Tomme d’Auvergne, served hot in many bistros.

Must-Try!

Aligot

Silky, stretchy mashed potatoes blended with Tomme d’Auvergne and garlic; delicious with sausages or roasted meat.

Pâté de Campagne with Saucisson

Country pâté paired with regional dried sausage, commonly found in markets and traditional eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Central de Beaumont

A bustling town market offering fresh produce, cheese, charcuterie, and regional pastries. Try fresh bread, local cheeses, and crepes from street stalls.

Rive Market Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the riverside with handmade pastries and ready-to-eat bites ideal for a riverside picnic.

Climate Guide

Weather

Beaumont experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Rain is possible year-round, with slightly higher precipitation in autumn and spring. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities; winter can bring frosty mornings and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet shop staff with a courteous 'Bonjour, Monsieur/Madame' and say 'S’il vous plaît' and 'Merci' when appropriate.

Meal etiquette

Eating is often a social, relaxed affair; take time to enjoy courses and avoid rushing. Tapping knives and forks on the plate is generally discouraged.

Language and conversation

French is preferred in most settings; attempting a few phrases goes a long way. Always ask for help politely if you need directions or recommendations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Beaumont is generally safe for travelers, with typical rural-urban safety considerations. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded markets and tourist spots, and be cautious when walking in dim areas at night. If you need help, local authorities and staffed facilities are typically reachable and friendly.

Tipping in Beaumont

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, tipping is optional but appreciated. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% as a service tip is common in restaurants if service is good; many places include a service charge, so a tip may be small or unnecessary. For cafés and markets, small change is typical.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small shops. Contactless payment is common, and many venues display accepted payment types at the door.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with lush greenery; great for outdoor markets and park walks. Rain can be intermittent, so bring a light rain layer.

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; enjoy terrace dining and riverside strolls. Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Cooler air and harvest season; vibrant foliage and seasonal markets feature apples, wine, and cheeses.

Winter

Cool to cold with occasional frost; many shops stay open but consider indoor activities like museums and cafés during colder spells.

Nightlife Guide

Beaumont at Night

Beaumont offers a relaxed nightlife with intimate bars, wine cafés, and small live-music venues. Weekends bring longer hours and local gatherings, while weekday evenings tend to be quieter. Expect friendly conversations, locally sourced drinks, and a focus on conversation over loud nightlife.

Hiking in Beaumont

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monts du Forez Ridge Trail

A scenic ridge hike offering panoramic valley views and a mix of woodlands and open meadows.

Forez Forest Loop

Moderate forest route suitable for day hikes with chances to spot wildlife and wildflowers.

Valley Vista Walk

A gentle riverside and hillside loop ideal for a relaxed afternoon with cafes and viewpoints along the way.

Airports

How to reach Beaumont by plane.

Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Major international hub about 2 hours by car or fast rail; good for international connections and onward travel.

Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE)

Regional airport about 1.5–2 hours away by car; serves European destinations and occasional seasonal routes.

Saint-Étienne – Bouthéon Airport (EBU)

Smaller regional airport roughly 1 hour away by car; convenient for domestic or short-haul flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is highly walkable, with compact streets, shaded squares, and easy access to markets, cafés, and attractions. Some hills and older sidewalks may require a bit of energy, but parking is usually available a short walk away. For longer trips or outer-area exploration, a car or local bus can be convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families settle in the area, drawn by the safe, friendly environment and good schools.

Students

Nearby universities and technical schools bring a steady student presence and youthful energy.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and accessible amenities attract retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Seasonal Workers

Markets and tourism create seasonal work opportunities, especially in markets, hospitality, and agriculture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in the region with local clubs and youth leagues; games are a social event on weekends.

Rugby

Local and regional rugby matches draw families and fans; strong community support.

Cycling

Rural roads and surrounding hills make for excellent cycling routes and scenic training rides.

Pétanque

A classic pastime in towns across France, enjoyed in squares and parks with friends and family.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate, with the busiest periods around market days and tourist weekends. The town center can be tight for parking, so use designated lots or park further away and walk. For longer trips, rail and regional buses connect Beaumont to larger cities; roads outside town are generally well maintained.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beaumont.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many markets in Beaumont carry abundant vegetables, legumes, and dairy; vegetarian dishes are common in most restaurants. When ordering, look for vegetable tarts, cheese platters, aligot without meat, and mushroom or ratatouille options. If needed, ask for a cheese board or pasta with tomato or olive-based sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible through local clinics and pharmacies; a larger hospital is located in a nearby city. Pharmacies provide standard over-the-counter meds and basic first aid, and emergency services operate with the European 112 system. Some doctors may speak English, especially in larger towns nearby.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide