Did you know that Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is one of France's 25 most beautiful villages? In 2012, it was even voted "Village préféré des Français" by the famous TV show of the same name. Nature lovers, you're going to love the Lot, an eco-friendly destination par excellence. Like a preserved treasure, time seems to glide over this charming medieval village without leaving its mark. Here, time has written a rich history into the stones. It's a delight to set down your suitcases in this charming town, where time seems to have stood still, offering a wonderful bubble of escape. Relax, and follow us as we discover the 15 must-do activities in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.
1. Stroll through the medieval heart of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
Welcome to the heart of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a village perched between rocky spurs and verdant landscapes. Step by step, you'll discover a medieval town once disputed by the Lapopie, Gourdon and Cardaillac families. The remains of castles and fortified houses still bear witness to its glorious past. Take time to explore the atypical alleyways, where the arcades of the woodturners' stalls bear witness to the flourishing economy of yesteryear.
From the towpath to the Gothic church, you'll discover a past as rich as it is fascinating. Add to this a vibrant artistic life, and you have one of the most beautiful villages in the south of France! Do you like walking? Follow the lovely paths of the Causse. They reveal an unspoilt natural heritage, punctuated by low walls, washhouses and dovecotes, typical of the Causses du Quercy.
2. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie castle
The poet and writer André Breton once lived in the Château de Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, now a bed and breakfast. Located on the village's main street, it's impossible to miss! Its imposing presence in the heart of the village bears witness to its historic past. Its old-fashioned decor, punctuated by superb paintings and other works of art, is pure enchantment. Not staying in the village? Don't worry, you can still visit the remains of the château on a guided tour.
3. Visit Maison Breton, at the heart of Surrealism
Let's talk about André Breton! The artist, like so many others over the years, found unparalleled inspiration at the Maison Breton, an enchanting place, a revelation of creativity. It was in this imposing Gothic-style house, complete with tower, thatAndré Breton spent his summers at the end of his life.
Today, it houses the Centre International du Surréalisme et de la Citoyenneté Mondiale. The tour, directly inspired by the artist's thoughts, guides you from the themed exhibition spaces to the hanging gardens. The literary café and bookshop, a treat for the literate, add the finishing touch to this cultural space, vibrant with the writer's energy.
4. Hiking in the Cirque de Vènes
The Lot valley is full of wonders. One of them is the Cirque de Vènes. If you're a keen hiker, welcome to this verdant paradise! In addition to a 14-kilometre walk, you'll enjoy superb views of the Tour-de-Faure cliffs and the Lot valley. So pack a picnic lunch, and set off for the day to discover one of the most beautiful natural spots around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Did you enjoy it? Discover the other must-see circus in the Lot department: the Cirque d'Autoire.
5. Admire the Bancourel viewpoint
Get your best camera ready, because you're about to discover Saint-Cirq-Lapopie's finest viewpoint. The verdant valley stretches out at your feet, in an enchantment of colors. The medieval village, the rocky spurs and the river below add their charm to this exceptional view.
Good to know: tables and benches are available on site, offering a welcome stopover or picnic break.
Interested? Leave your car at parking lot n°5 le Bancourel, in the village heights. A short walk will take you to this pretty, natural spot.
6. Discover the Musée du Vin, between culture and delicacies
You might think you're entering a boutique... but you're not wrong! While local products are sold on site, including local wine made by two local winemakers, the premises also boast a fascinating museum. The museum showcases the vineyard and the equipment used to work it. Halfway between culture and gourmet delights, the Musée du Vin is a must-visit place in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, steeped in the terroir "as we like it here".
7. Visit the church of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
The church of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie may not look like much from the outside, but it's no less fascinating. It's in the details that you can trace its history. Dedicated to Sainte Julitte and Saint-Cyr, it tells us that the word "Cyr" is the one that preceded the "Cirq" of "Saint-Cirq-Lapopie".
Built in the XVIᵉ century, it preserves an acanthus leaf carved decoration, an artist's work dating back to the XIIᵉ century. The work of craftsmen is also honored here, as one of the side chapels is dedicated to the patron saint of woodturners: Saint Catherine.
8. Cruise the Lot in an old-fashioned gabare
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is an ideal country vacation destination, and you'll feel right at home admiring the scenery on a cruise on the River Lot. From the comfort of an old-fashioned gabare, you can admire the village and its surroundings with fresh eyes. Les Croisières de Saint-Cirq offers a wide range of cruises on different themes:
- the 7 Wonders cruise, passing through Bouziès, Ganil and Coudoulous,
- the Privilège cruise, for a VIP welcome in a small group,
- the Pirates cruise, to delight children,
- the Rando cruise, where the outward journey is by boat and the return on foot,
- the Musical cruise, for a magical cruise at nightfall.
Lovers of local produce will appreciate the Dégustation cruise, which allows them to discover the Cahors vineyards, with tastings of course!
9. Walk to the Moulin d'Aulanac
The authenticity of the region can be felt at every step, as evidenced by the ancient moulin d'Aulanac. Dating back to the XIVᵉ century, it stands at the foot of the village, a proud representative of a bygone era. Superbly preserved until now, albeit weakened, its half-timbered facade designed in stone is a pure ancestral marvel, which has defied time with panache. Classified as a historical monument, the mill is not open to the public. It is currently being restored by the Fondation du Patrimoine Mission Stéphane Bern, in order to consolidate the submerged part, which is now in a fragile state.
10. Walk to the Sainte-Croix chapel
Although the Sainte-Croix chapel is not open to visitors, it offers two objectives: a pleasant walk to reach it and a superb view over the valley. Situated on the heights of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, it offers an incredible panorama of the Coudoulous cliffs. Below, the river meanders merrily along, separating the plateaux from the Causses du Quercy.
To enjoy this magnificent view, take the GR 36 towards Concots. A short 20-minute walk will take you to La Chapelle. Prefer to drive? The good news is that parking is available just a two-minute walk from the Chapelle Sainte-Croix.
11. Enjoy the view from Lapopie rock
If you're a fan of panoramic views, another beautiful sight awaits you at the top of the Rocher de Lapopie. At one time, this was the site of the village's first castle. Today, all that remains are the foundations of the main tower, the seigniorial dwelling and the remains of a fortified gate, but the short walk to reach it is well worth it. Rest assured, barriers make the climb 100% safe. From the belvedere, you'll be able to take in the whole valley, making for some of the best vacation photos you'll ever take.
12. Walk along the Chemin de Halage
Linking Bouziès to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, the Chemin de Halage offers a most bucolic walk. Winding through the trees, it offers a quiet, easy-to-access walk. Further along, the cliff was carved by artist Daniel Monnier, who wanted to leave his mark on the rock of this pretty corner of the Lot. On this walk, you can also see his natural works sculpted directly into the rock. Absolutely superb, as is the rest of this magical hike! Allow between two and two-and-a-half hours to complete the ten kilometers of the Chemin de Halage.
13. Make your own bread at Pilgrims Au Pain
During your stay in or around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, immerse yourself in the art of baking with professional baker Pat Hains. Using her custom-built wood-fired oven, you'll learn to create your own breads using European techniques and pre-ferments. Pat, your hostess, trained in France, Italy and Germany, and was honored with a German baking award in 2011. At Pilgrims Au Pain, you'll once again experience an authentic day, close to our terroir, promising an experience as unique as it is exciting.
14. Swimming in the Lot, on the beach at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
Yes, there is a little beach at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie! Located at the foot of the medieval village, it features fine sand, a snack bar and the Camping Paradis de la Plage. The campsite's nautical base also offers a number of kayaks for hire. After a refreshing dip in the river, you can enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Lot. It's the ideal place to relax with the family, while enjoying a superb view of the cliffs and surrounding countryside.
15. Taste local specialties, a gourmet's delight
The Lot Valley is renowned not only for its scenic beauty, but also for its rich gastronomic heritage. Get your taste buds ready, because the Périgord boletus invites itself onto your plate in 1001 forms! The Périgord walnut also features prominently in local dishes, both savory and sweet (walnut tart is a classic and a must-try). Appreciated by connoisseurs, Quercy truffles are also renowned for their gustatory qualities. You'll find them in the region's best restaurants and delicatessens.
Have you heard of mique quercynoise? With its "thick breadcrumbs" feel, it's made from flour, eggs, milk and butter (or duck fat). Served with a savory meal, it's a hearty dish to be savored with relish.
Between the main course and dessert, of course, we try Rocamadour or Cabécou, succulent little local goat's milk cheeses.
In the sweet department, we finally order a pastis quercynois. Often confused with croustade, it's made with apples cooked in a very thin pastry. A pure gourmet delight. Bon appétit!
Petit Futé tip
Want to enjoy the beauty of the area in a different way? Discover Saint-Cirq-Lapopie on horseback. Accompanied by a guide, you'll discover the most beautiful views of the area in an unusual way. The Pech Merle farm is a must for this kind of family outing.
Where to stay in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?
Spending just a day or a weekend in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie? Then the ideal place to stay is in the heart of town. That way, you'll be close to everything. Just make sure your hotel isn't too far from the parking lots at the bottom and top of the village!
The most peaceful
Set down your suitcases in a haven of tranquillity atHôtel les Gabarres, located around 2 km from the town center. With free parking, a swimming pool and shaded terrace. Poolside rooms offer superb views of the green hills. Book your comfortable your comfortable hotel room in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.
The best location
Ideally located in the heart of the medieval village, theAuberge du Sombral offers simple but comfortable rooms. You'll enjoy a friendly welcome, enhanced by local cuisine that's as rich as it is tasty. Good to know: pets are welcome. Click here to to book your hotel room.
The camping option
Set back a little from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie's bustling town center, find a bubble of serenity at Camping La Truffière, nestled in a green setting. The lovely outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing break before you head back to your tent or elegant wooden accommodation. Click here to reserve a pitch or accommodation at this campsite.
Camping de la Plage, on the banks of the river, is another great option to consider!
What are the best restaurants in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?
Once you've packed your bags, it's time to start thinking about what to eat! Nestled in the heart of an unspoilt region, the village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie boasts some excellent restaurants.
The best view, local produce
Overlooking the valley, the Lou Bolat terrace offers an exceptional panorama for savoring regional delicacies in a bucolic setting. The menu is varied and the products homemade. Did you like the address? Come back in the afternoon for a snack!
Local produce at affordable prices
From walnuts to truffles, not forgetting local dishes, La Tonnelle brasserie gives pride of place to local produce. Comfortably seated in the shade of the climbing vine, you can enjoy omelettes, burgers and other gourmet sandwiches for a very reasonable price.
Southwestern flavors in the spotlight
From foie gras to duck breast and cassoulet, treat yourself to the best of southwestern France! At Gourmet Quercynois, the atmosphere is authentic and so are the dishes. The meal ends with the famous pastis quercynois, a 100% Lot delight.
What to do around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?
The Lot region offers a wealth of nature destinations and medieval villages to visit. Less than twenty minutes from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, set course for the pretty Pech Merle cave. Located in Cabrerets, it takes visitors back to prehistoric times. From cave paintings to geological formations, the visit is pure enchantment.
Visiting the Lot also means taking the time to visit its main town, Cahors. Deeply authentic, Cahors has retained its old-world charm, with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. One of the city's jewels is the Pont Valentré, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which can be admired during a bucolic stroll along the Lot. A little further afield (about an hour and a quarter from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie), don't miss a visit to Rocamadour. Perched on a cliff, this sacred site, a major pilgrimage center in France, invites you to climb the 216 steps of its Grand Escalier. Let your steps guide you to the famous Vierge Noire and the Saint-Sauveur basilica, while you contemplate the charm of the village's atypical alleyways. And, of course, don't leave before sampling the local cheese of the same name: Rocamadour !
Do you like charming villages? Then head for Figeac, a must-see Art and History town around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. From the Place des Écritures to the Musée Champollion, the visit is full of surprises. In the same style, in Aveyron, we invite you to discover the authentic charm of Villefranche-de-Rouergue.
Last but not least, the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy offers superb hiking opportunities.
A real "coup de coeur" destination, the Lot invites you to discover its many treasures. Looking for a trendy destination for your next vacation? Beneath its wise exterior, the Lot stands out for the beauty of its landscapes and its cultural richness. The French are going green again, so it's not surprising that villages like Saint-Cirq-Lapopie are all the rage. The region boasts some of the most beautiful villages in the south of France, so don't hesitate! That's the beauty of the Lot: it's full of superb medieval villages, to be admired without moderation! Want to see more? Discover the 21 most beautiful places to visit in Occitanie during your vacations.
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