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Bessuéjouls (Chemin de Saint-Jacques)

By Melinda Lusmore

Saint-Pierre, Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

One of the highlights of a walk along the Chemin de Saint-Jacques du-Puy is a visit to the church of Saint-Pierre, located in the hamlet of Bessuéjouls, three kilometres past Espalion.

The bell tower of this ancient church dates from the twelfth century and was left intact when the rest of the church was renovated, some 400 years later.

(Published February 2016, last updated April 2022)

Approaching Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

First glimpse of the bell tower as you approach Bessuéjouls

Saint-Pierre, Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

Church of Saint-Pierre in Bessuéjouls

Inside  the church, simple white-washed walls offset colourful carvings and paintings of Christ and the apostles.

Mass is held once each month as the local priest rotates through the villages in the area but attending a service here would be a treat indeed—even if, like me, you understand nothing!

Saint-Pierre, Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

Inside the church of Saint-Pierre

Stairs at the rear of the church will take you up to the chapel dedicated to the archangel Saint-Michel.

Columns of red sandstone inside the twelfth-century chapel of Saint-Michel

Inside Chapelle Saint-Michel

It’s hard to imagine who used this tiny space.

Perhaps it was reserved for priests, or perhaps it was visited only when needed, to ring church bells which are no longer there. Perhaps it only became a chapel centuries later.

No matter what the original purpose, there is an overwhelming sense of tranquility oozing from the red sandstone columns.

(Take a closer look inside the chapel here.)

Saint-Pierre, Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

Walkers take a break in the sunshine in front of Saint-Pierre

Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

As the Chemin de Saint-Jacques continues on towards Estaing, the path passes a small café

Saint-Pierre, Bessuéjouls, GR 65, Chemin de Saint-Jacques, France

Views back towards the church as the Chemin de Saint-Jacques leaves Bessuéjouls

FAST FACTS

Which long-distance walk in France visits Bessuéjouls?

Chemin de Saint-Jacques du-Puy (Stage 2: Aumont-Aubrac to Figeac)

Where is Bessuéjouls, France?   Find it on Google maps

Bessuéjouls is located 159 kilometres (99.4 miles) along the Chemin de Saint-Jacques. If you’ve been following my suggested itinerary since leaving Le Puy-en-Velay (and stopped to visit Château Fort de Calmont d’Olt on your way out of Espalion), you’ll arrive late in the morning on the ninth day of walking.

Click through to find my suggested itinerary for all five stages of the walk

If you prefer to set your own agenda, I share the steps I take to plan my itinerary on any long-distance walk (using the Chemin de Stevenson as a case study)

The Compostel’Bus service runs every morning, connecting villages along the path between Le Puy-en-Velay and Conques and making the return journey each afternoon. The nearest stop to Bessuéjouls is three kilometres east in Espalion or eight kilometres further along in Estaing.   

Accommodation in Bussuéjouls  

Domaine d’Armagnac has been offering accommodation to passing walkers for many years but has recently changed ownership. Cooking facilities are available but dinner can be provided if reserved in advance.    

Chambre d’Hôte  
Domaine d’Armagnac 

How to book accommodation in French 

Where to eat in Bessuéjouls 

The grassy lawn in front of the church is a popular spot for long-distance walkers ready to take a break, enjoy a picnic lunch and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient and historic site.

And if you’ve forgotten your picnic lunch—there’s a small café just over the bridge beyond the church.

Practical tips for long-distance walking—preparation, packing and avoiding blisters

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About The Author – Melinda Lusmore

Hi! I’m Melinda, the walker behind I Love Walking in France. Nothing makes me happier than wandering through the picturesque villages and glorious countryside in rural France, and helping others to do the same. Whether you’re looking for practical tips or a little inspiration for your own long-distance walk, you’ll find everything you need right here. This website contains no sponsored posts or affiliate links. If I recommend a product, service or somewhere to stay, it’s because I’ve used it, loved it—and I think you will too!

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Are you dreaming of a walk through the picturesque villages and glorious countryside of rural France and don’t know where to start?

Download your FREE guide now!

3 Steps to the Perfect Long-distance Walk

Your details stay here - no walking EVER! It's a promise!

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