World-renowned, and frankly too crowded at peak times, Rocamadour has always been a popular destination. It’s hard not to be impressed with the initial view from the road, of a village seemingly encrusted in the cliff-face. It’s the second-most visited spot in provincial France, after the Mont-Saint-Michel!

Rocamadour was initially the refuge of a hermit called Amadour. In the 6th century, Benedictine monks arrived, as did pilgrims en route for Saint-Jacques-de-Compostella. In 1166, thanks to the supposed discovery of the mummified body of Amadour, Rocamadour acquired pilgrim status for itself. The village filled up with pilgrims and princes, and prospered.

Fortifications went up, as did churches and chapels. Seven of these remain, restored in the 19th century by Violet-le-Duc. Not everyone appears to approve of the quality of these restorations, particularly that of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste chapel.

This and the Notre Dame chapel are certainly worth the visit, however. Some parts of the ramparts are still visible, notably the Figuier gate to the town. A 19th century castle gives unrivalled views of the Alzou gorges. The only thing that may spoil that view is tourists. So, go off-peak…

Tourist office: +33 (0) 5 65 33 62 59

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