Explore the Enchanting Village of Rocamadour: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Immerse yourself in the beauty of one of France's most breathtaking villages nestled in the Quercy region. Perched against a majestic cliff, this architectural marvel reflects the French Feudal system, embodying the three distinct orders of Chivalry, Clergy, and Peasantry.
As you wander through the village, marvel at the houses that once sheltered the peasants at the bottom, while the middle section housed the Clergy and the Sanctuary. At the pinnacle of the cliff, discover the Castle, the residence of the local Lord and a testament to the Chivalry order.
Today, Rocamadour continues to captivate pilgrims and visitors worldwide. Its inclusion on the Way of Saint James pilgrimage route has earned it a prestigious spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Hotel Pickup in Sarlat: Begin Your Journey
We will start our adventure by picking you up directly from your hotel or accommodation in Sarlat or the surrounding area. Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking guide, an expert in the Dordogne region, who will provide you with a detailed itinerary and program for this half-day tour. Step into our spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, ensuring a pleasant journey to Rocamadour.
Travel in Comfort with a Mercedes Minivan
Our private Sarlat Sightseeing Tour offers the luxury of traveling in one of our spacious Mercedes Minivans. While this vehicle can accommodate up to 8 individuals, we are reserving it exclusively for your group, allowing you to choose the seats that best suit your preferences for social distancing, all while enjoying the insightful commentary from your guide. All our vehicles feature an onboard P/A system, ensuring that you hear your driver/guide's commentary regardless of your seat selection.
Rocamadour: Embark on a Picture-Perfect Visit
Set off on a journey to the pilgrimage and fortress village of Rocamadour, known for its breathtaking location within a gorge overlooking a tributary of the River Dordogne. The village's name likely stems from the combination of St. Amador or Amadour, whose relics were discovered in the sanctuary's heart in 1166, and "roca" (cliff).
This picturesque village is celebrated for its historical monuments and the revered sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Throughout the centuries, it has attracted pilgrims from all corners of the globe, including kings, bishops, and nobles.
Accompanied by your guide, wander through the medieval streets of the village until you reach the steps leading to the central part of the village, where the Church Square, known as Place St Amadour, awaits with its seven sanctuaries. The magnificent Great Staircase, consisting of approximately 216 steps, carries visitors from the lower town to the religious complex—an arduous climb pilgrims once undertook on their knees during the Middle Ages.
Discover the Monastic Buildings within the Sanctuary
Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to the sanctuary, inviting you to seek out the legendary sword of Roland, Durandal, embedded in the cliff. According to legend, Roland, Charlemagne's nephew, hurled the sword from the battlefield to ensure no one would ever wield it again, and it found its resting place in Rocamadour.
Inside the sanctuary, marvel at the renowned Notre Dame Chapel, an extraordinary complex dating back to the 13th century. Your guide will share fascinating stories surrounding the Black Madonna statue, carved from a walnut tree in the 12th century.
Adorning the chapel's ceiling are ship models offered by grateful survivors who invoked the Black Madonna and were subsequently rescued from shipwrecks. It is said that with each saved vessel, the miraculous bell in the chapel would ring once. Facing the Notre Dame chapel, admire the stunning 12th-century frescoes depicting the Annunciation and Visitation.
Enjoy Personal Exploration
Following your sanctuary visit, delight in some free time to explore at your leisure. If you exit the sanctuary at the same level, you can ascend to the Castle, situated above the sanctuary, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Alzou canyon, although the Castle itself is not open to visitors. Alternatively, descend back to the village and take a leisurely stroll along the main street, perusing local arts and crafts shops for unique souvenirs.
After your personal discovery time, we will return to Sarlat, concluding our unforgettable journey. Book your Rocamadour tour today and embark on a captivating adventure to one of France's most enchanting UNESCO World Heritage sites, filled with architectural wonders, spiritual significance, and natural beauty.
