by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 8/26/2025
Rocamadour had been one of our destination targets since the very first trip planning sessions, as it represents one of the more unusual sites we'd ever seen or read about. The images we had seen of the buildings on the side & top of that cliff were amazing and we were really looking forward to visiting there. The drive from Sarlat to Rocamadour is via country roads/back roads that are narrow with lots of curves. The distance was only 51 kilometers however the roads were challenging to the point where it took 1.5 hours to arrive.
Rocamadour, often referred to as a "Vertical Village," is a breathtaking medieval town perched precariously on the side of a sheer limestone cliff (390 feet) in southwestern France. This unique and enchanting destination is a place of profound religious significance and natural beauty. Rocamadour owes its origin to St. Amadour who (according to tradition) chose this place as a hermitage for his devotions to the Virgin Mary.
At the heart of Rocamadour is the Sanctuary of Rocamadour, a complex of religious buildings that have drawn pilgrims for centuries. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the Church of Notre Dame (built in 1479) contains the wooden figure of the Black Madonna - reputed to have been carved by St. Amadour himself.
Grand Escalier RocamadourPilgrims were expected to climb the Grand Escalier on their knees, a steep flight of 216 steps, as an act of penance, seeking solace, and hoping for miracles. As reports of miracles happening at Rocamadour spread throughout Europe, visitors began to arrive looking for their own miracle. King Henry Plantagenet came to find a miraculous cure. St. Louis IX of France followed in the next century and Rocamadour became an important pilgrimage destination.
The town's architecture is a remarkable sight, with its ancient buildings seemingly stacked on top of each other along the cliffside. The charming medieval streets are lined with shops selling local handicrafts, goat cheese, and other regional specialties.
Rocamadour's unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural grandeur makes it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking a profound and visually stunning experience in the heart of France.
Rocamadour is classed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as part of the St James' Way pilgrimage route. If you are interested in the French UNESCO sites, please visit our France UNESCO Sites page.
IMAGE CREDIT: The Grand Escalier image above is the property of Tournasol7 via Wikimedia Commons using the Creative Commons CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Rocamadour boasts a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Its story intertwines with legends of miraculous happenings and the rise of religious pilgrimage.
According to legend, Rocamadour's name originates from Saint Amadour, a hermit who sought refuge in the region during the 1st century AD. He is said to have carved a small chapel into the limestone cliffs where he lived out his days in prayer and contemplation. After his death, the site became a place of pilgrimage.
In the 12th century, Rocamadour became a significant pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages, attracting pilgrims from across Europe. The village's religious significance was further elevated with the discovery of the purported remains of Saint Amadour, which were found perfectly preserved within the cliffs.
During the Hundred Years' War in the 14th and 15th centuries, Rocamadour suffered damage but managed to survive, retaining its allure as a place of spiritual devotion. Its strategic location along the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela ensured its continued importance.
Rocamadour experienced periods of decline and revival throughout the centuries, but its spiritual significance endured. In the 19th century, the village underwent restoration efforts, preserving its medieval character and attracting tourists fascinated by its blend of religious and architectural heritage.
How do I get to Rocamadour?
You could consider driving, or taking a train;
What is Rocamadour famous for?
Rocamadour is renowned as a medieval pilgrimage site with cliffside sanctuaries, chapels, and breathtaking valley views.
How do you get to the sanctuaries in Rocamadour?
Visitors can climb the Grand Escalier (Great Staircase) or take the cable car from the lower village to the sanctuary level. There is a parking lot to the rear of the complex at the top of the cliff, however, it fills up very quickly in the morning.
When is the best time to visit Rocamadour?
Early morning or late afternoon avoids crowds and provides the best lighting for photography. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather.
Is Rocamadour suitable for a day trip?
Yes from Sarlat. Many visitors explore Rocamadour in one day, combining a visit to the sanctuaries, medieval streets, and viewpoints. Bordeaux is 254 kilometers from Rocamador, a day trip from there would require an early start. Paris is 532 kilometers, which is too far for a day trip.
Where are the best viewpoints of Rocamadour?
The Belvédère de l’Hospitalet and the cliffside ramparts provide the most iconic photo spots.
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Private walking tour with a Registered Guide
