Sightseeing tour of Rocamadour
The medieval town of Rocamadour
Are you planning to spend your next vacation in the Dordogne Valley? Don't wait any longer to discover Rocamadour, voted France's favorite village in 2016. Perched on a cliff 120 meters above the Alzou Canyon, the town nestles within the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park. With four fortified gates, the origins of this sacred city date back to the 12th century.
According to legend, the hermit Saint Amadour lived in Rocamadour for many years and even built an altar there. In 1166, a perfectly preserved body was found where the sanctuary stands today: it is believed to be that of Saint Amadour.
The town is named after him. It is the starting point for miracles in Rocamadour, attracting many faithful followers.
Renowned throughout Europe, pilgrims flock to this city located on the Way of St. James. You will be only an hour's drive from Rocamadour from the Sarlat campground.
Plundered during the Renaissance and then during the French Revolution, it was subsequently restored and remains an essential stop on the Way of St. James.
Today, pilgrims and visitors can explore the sanctuary, consisting of the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur and the Crypt of Saint-Amadour, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and seven other chapels, after climbing more than 200 steps.
The town consists of three successive levels, representing the three classes of medieval society: knights, clerics, and workers. The town is world-famous. Located just 30 miles from Sarlat, Rocamadour is a must-see destination in the Dordogne. From Rocamadour, you are just an hour's drive from Beynac and La Roque Gageac.
Strolling through the streets of Rocamadour
After passing through the Figuier gate at the entrance to the town, continue along Rue de la Couronnerie, the town's only street.
Full of life, it offers a large number of restaurants where you can discover local products, as well as must-visit shops where you can pick up souvenirs of your stay. You reach the Grand Staircase: 216 steps lead to a forecourt from where you can visit the eight churches.
The Romanesque-Gothic Basilica of Saint-Sauveur features a 19th-century wooden mezzanine that was added to accommodate large numbers of pilgrims.
A colorful 16th-century Christ adorns the nave. In the Notre-Dame chapel, you will discover the Black Madonna, a splendor that pilgrims have come to honor for over 1,000 years, nestled in a rocky cavity in the cliff. This wooden statuette dates from the 12th century.
As you continue your ascent to the top of the town, you will arrive at Rocamadour Castle. Its ramparts were built between the 13th and 14th centuries. The castle, which was part of the town's defense system, was restored in the 19th century. It offers an exceptional view of the town.
The Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park stretches around the town of Rocamadour. A peaceful and relaxing natural environment steeped in history in the heart of the Dordogne Valley.
Top 5 things to do in Rocamadour
Hot air balloon ride: Take off at the foot of the city and float for an hour above the castles of the valley. Allow one hour for balloon preparation. Activity subject to reservation and weather conditions. €200 per person; €100 for ages 10 to 14. Minimum height requirement: 1.20 m.
Be aware that one of the biggest events of the year may be coming up: the Rocamadour Hot Air Balloon Festival.
- Rocamadour ramparts: Immerse yourself in the remains of the 14th century with an extraordinary view of the Alzou canyon. Guided tour: €2, all year round from Monday to Sunday.
- Rocher des Aigles Ecopark: Visit the park and watch shows featuring birds of prey and parrots. Plan to arrive 10 minutes before the show starts. Open daily, €11 per person, €7 for children aged 4 to 13.
- Monkey Forest: Take beautiful photos for an hour and a half as you discover more than 150 endangered species of Barbary macaques living in the wild in a 20-hectare forest. Watch them being fed. Admission: €9; €5.50 for ages 5 to 14.
- Parc Durandal: Three equestrian shows (stunts, fights, comedy acts) and pony rides. Between €7 and €16 per show, €18 to €30 for all three shows, and free for children under six.