Welcome to the charming commune of Rocamadour, a medieval gem nestled in the heart of the Dordogne Valley in southwest France. Known for its religious sanctuary and castle perched on a breathtaking cliff, Rocamadour is a destination that perfectly combines historical heritage, natural beauty and local gastronomy . In this article, we invite you to discover the 11 must-sees of this sacred city, for a stay rich in wonder and discovery. Follow us as we guide you through the cobbled streets and breathtaking scenery of this unique place, France's second-largest Marian city after Lourdes .
1. Visit the medieval town of Rocamadour
The medieval town of Rocamadour, a true architectural and historical gem, is a must-see site for your family visit. Built into the side of a cliff, its cobbled streets, stone houses and emblematic monuments bear witness to a rich past. a stroll through the narrow streets of Rocamadour is one of France's top 10 "must-do" experiences.To begin your exploration, cross the Porte du Figuier, the town's main entrance, andlet yourself be transported back to the heart of the Middle Ages. Then take the Grand Escalier , also known as the Escalier des Pèlerins, which links the lower and upper towns. Children will love counting the steps and spotting the details carved into the stone, while parents will marvel at the architecture and the exceptional views over the Alzou valley.
Discover Rocamadour's unique history with this private guided tour that will immerse you in Rocamadour's rich past.
2. Notre-Dame de Rocamadour Chapel
The Chapelle Notre-Dame, Rocamadour's sacred jewel, was rebuilt in the flamboyant Gothic style and is one ofthe most beautiful places to visit in Occitanie. Its entrance is beneath a sculpted tympanum, adorning a facade decorated with 15th-century frescoes. The nave and choir, topped by ribbed vaults, are embellished with stone galleries, while a miraculous bell, reputed to ring spontaneously miracles, hangs from the ceiling. Numerous ex-votos, expressions of the faithful's gratitude, are displayed in the chapel. On the altar sits a 13th-century reliquary statue of the Black Madonna, holding the adult-faced Infant Jesus on her left knee.
Did you know? Rocamadour is one of the 17 trendiest destinations to visit in France!
3. Saint-Amadour church-crypt
The Crypte Saint-Amadour, also known as the Chapelle du Saint-Sacrement, is a Romanesque building. It features a single nave separated by an imposing double arch into two vaulted bays, with diagonal arches at the corners of which stand columns topped by epannelled capitals. Built in the 12th century to enlarge the terrace, this crypt serves as the base for the upper church. It was here that the relics of Saint Amadour were installed after their discovery in 1166, and were preserved for 400 years, until the Wars of Religion. Access to this small, intimate chapel, an invitation to prayer and meditation, is via a staircase descending beneath the basilica, opposite the pilgrims' staircase. Although more discreet, the Crypte Saint-Amadour is definitely worth a visit.
4. Climb up to Rocamadour castle
Situated on a plateau seventy meters above the Sanctuary, the castle overlooks the Alzou valley. Adorned with a bell tower equipped with a carillon, it is today the undisputed emblem of Rocamadour's heritage. From the ramparts, you'll enjoya breathtaking 360-degree panorama of one of the most beautiful villages in the south of France.
Good to know: There are three levels: the castle above, the Sanctuaries below and the Cité below. To get from one level to the next, two elevators are available: the Inclined Elevator and the Vertical Elevator. The Incliné, which departs every three minutes, takes you from the Château to the Sanctuaires. You're now in the historic heart of Rocamadour. The Vertical Lift connects the Sanctuaries with the medieval town. A good alternative for those who have difficulty climbing the steps! Good to know: twin tickets are available.
5. Rocamadour's Basilica of Saint-Sauveur
The basilica, with its magnificent quadripartite vault supported by a large double-arched ceiling, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 11th-13th-century church, which marks the transition between the Romanesque and Gothic styles, has a number of distinctive features. Its two naves are leaning against the cliff face, and a wooden mezzanine, added in the 19th century, overlooks them. The choir features a gilded wooden altar bas-relief depicting the Assumption, and a 16th-century polychrome wooden Christ. One of the apses contains the relics of Saint Amadour, and the quadripartite vault, supported by a large double arch, is of remarkable beauty.
6. Visit La Borie d'Imbert
La Borie d'Imbert plunges you into the heart of the Lot's rural heritage for a country vacation ! This meticulously restored farm offers a complete immersion in the world of agriculture , with activities, demonstrations of pig and goat breeding, and the chance to take part in goat milking (from 5pm to 7pm). You'll also be able to buy cheese directly from the farm, as well as local produce. During the season, you can put together your own picnic basket from products sold in the store. Access to the farm is free, and allows you to discover all the stages of production.
7. Visit Rocher des Aigles
The Rocher des Aigles ornithological ecopark is home to one of Europe's largest collections of birds, with species such as eagles, vultures, condors and many others to observe. The park features hundreds of rare birds from all over the world, including the white-tailed eagle and the Andean condor. Its mission is not only to showcase these birds, but also to care for injured birds collected by gamekeepers and to reproduce species in captivity. A multitude of birds offer a unique aerial spectacle. Although eagles are the stars of this park, you can also discover other species, from vultures and parrots to owls. An ideal activity if you're holidaying in the area with children!
8. Grotte des Merveilles
This prehistoric grotto, discovered in 1920, features stalactites and cave paintings. Situated just 100 metres from the Rocamadour panorama, access to the caves is easy, with just 15 steps to descend. The visit begins by admiring the beautiful concretions and gours where stalactites are reflected. You'll be particularly moved by the works of Upper Paleolithic artists, who made this a sanctuary remarkably adorned with cave paintings (horses, deer, felines and six hands) over 20,000 years ago.
9. The Monkey Forest
In this forest, it's the monkeys who welcome you to their home : get up close to them like never before and share a unique moment with them. On a 20-hectare natural site, over 150 Barbary macaques (or magots), a protected species native to the mountains of Morocco and Algeria, roam free. The visit takes place along a 1.3 km trail among the monkeys. Close proximity to the animals guarantees a thrilling experience. You can observe their group lifestyle, games, habits and much more. Every 45 minutes, the animals are fed by our animal care staff. New for 2024: an educational trail.
10. Visit the Gouffre de Padirac near Rocamadour
The Gouffre de Padirac, classified as a geological wonder, offers a vertiginous descent leading to a river for a boat trip. This natural cavity, 33 metres in diameter and 75 metres deep, is France's first natural underground heritage site and is considered a major geological curiosity. Exploration begins with a descent of an Eiffel-inspired staircase, comprising 207 of the 543 steps you'll encounter. After discovering galleries accessible only on foot, a jetty allows you to climb aboard a boat, guided by a guide-batelier, for an instructive ride along the water's edge. The view is breathtaking! A must if you're on vacation with the family!
11. Taste the local culinary specialties
During your stay in Rocamadour, don't miss the opportunity to sample local culinary specialties that will delight your taste buds and introduce you to the authentic flavors of the region. One of the must-tries is the famous Rocamadour cheese, a delicious goat's milk cheese with a mellow, melting taste. Taste it fresh to fully appreciate its aromas, accompanied by a glass of Cahors wine for a unique taste experience. Lovers of melted cheese will be tempted by rocaclette, a delicious combination of rocamadour and raclette, one of the most typical dishes in French gastronomy.
Another emblematic Rocamadour dish, mique, is a rich, hearty dish, ideal for satiating yourself during your visits. This leavened pastry, prepared with eggs, milk and fat, is usually served with petit salé and vegetables. Once you've tasted it, you'll understand why this dish is so popular with locals and visitors alike.
Finally, if you're visiting the Lot region between December and March, don't miss the truffle, the gourmet mushroom that invades local markets during this period. The price may be high, but the truffle is a culinary treasure that's well worth the effort
Where to stay in Rocamadour?
Rocamadour offers a variety of accommodation options to suit everyone's needs and preferences. Rocamadour has a variety of hotels, from budget to luxury. You can find hotels in the town's historic center, close to the main tourist attractions, or establishments on the outskirts, often offering a more peaceful setting and breathtaking views over the valley. For a more authentic and convivial experience, opt for a bed & breakfast. B&Bs in Rocamadour are often located in traditional stone houses, offering comfortable accommodation and a warm welcome from local owners.
Discover our three favorite hotels in Rocamadour:
- The family-friendly Relais Amadourien
Situated on the heights of Rocamadour, the Relais Amadourien welcomes you in a calm, cosy and contemporary atmosphere, yet within easy reach of the town. It's a family-run hotel with simple facilities, combining calm and comfort. The breakfast room opens onto the garden, with a panoramic view over the valley. Click here to book your stay!
- Best value for money hotel Le Belvédère
Le Belvédère is a hotel with bright, spacious rooms offering excellent value for money. A big plus for the quality of the gourmet menus and the traditional cuisine, with melt-in-the-mouth veal chuck, grilled beef fillet and green vegetable curry. To be enjoyed on the terrace with its breathtaking view of the Alzou canyon. Click here to book your stay
- The most charming : Le Troubadour
Le Trou badour welcomes you to a 17th-century farmhouse with 2 hectares of parkland, a heated swimming pool, a dovecote and a terrace. You'll stay in rooms and apartments carefully designed in country style, with oak parquet flooring and whitewashed walls. Cuisine with local accents and fresh produce. Click here to to book your stay!
How long does it take to visit Rocamadour?
The ideal length of time to visit Rocamadour depends on your interests and the pace at which you wish to discover the town. However, to take full advantage of the main sites and activities, we recommend that you allow at least a full day.
If you're a history, architecture or spirituality buff, two days will allow you to explore Rocamadour's treasures, churches, chapels and museums in greater depth. You can also take time to stroll through the narrow streets, sample local specialities and soak up the unique atmosphere of this medieval town.
Finally, if you love nature and wide open spaces, you might consider staying three days or more in Rocamadour. This will give you time to go hiking in the surrounding area, discover the prehistoric caves or indulge in other outdoor activities.
What's there to visit in Rocamadour?
Rocamadour, a medieval gem nestled in the heart of the Dordogne valley, is an ideal destination for a family visit. With its historical heritage, natural beauty and fun activities, there's something for everyone. Here's a selection of places and activities to discover with the whole family during your stay in Rocamadour:
- The Rocamadour sanctuary: this majestic religious site, made up of several churches and chapels, is a must-see. Take the 216-step Grand Escalier up to the Saint-Sauveur basilica and the Saint-Amadour crypt. Children can have fun counting the steps and spotting the details carved into the stone.
- Rocamadour castle: perched atop the cliff, this medieval castle offers a breathtaking view over the Alzou valley and the town. Children will love the ramparts and towers to explore, while parents will admire the architecture and panoramic views.
- La Forêt des Singes: located just a few kilometers from Rocamadour, this wildlife park is home to over 150 free-roaming Barbary macaques. A unique, fun experience for young and old alike, it allows visitors to observe these primates up close and learn more about their way of life.
- Le Rocher des Aigles : this bird park, nestled in the heart of the Rocamadour cliffs, presents free-flying shows of birds of prey. It's an impressive and educational experience for the whole family, raising awareness of the need to protect these majestic birds.
- Grotte de Lacave: near Rocamadour, discover this prehistoric cave with its splendid concretions. A guided tour in a small train will delight children, who can marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites.
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