A weekend in Rocamadour for the whole family
A weekend in Rocamadour is a guaranteed discovery-filled getaway for the whole family in the heart of the Lot region. There’s something for everyone, from
Rocamadour for a weekend: just enough time to see it all!
Rocamadour, a medieval jewel clinging to a cliffside in the Lot, is well worth a visit if you’re camping in the Lot. This exceptional site, classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, offers a unique experience combining religious heritage, remarkable architecture and spectacular panoramas.
Tour duration and access to Rocamadour
To make the most of your visit, allow at least half a day, or evena full day if you want to explore the town in depth, visit all the sanctuaries and take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque alleyways. The village is pedestrianized. Park in one of the parking lots at the top or bottom of the site. You can reach the holy city by the Grand Escalier (216 steps), the elevator or the little train.
The best time to visit Rocamadour without the crowds
As for the best time to visit Rocamadour, choose the mornings to avoid the crowds of tourist coaches, which usually arrive in the middle of the day. If possible, avoid the months of July and August, when visitor numbers peak, and opt instead for spring or autumn, when the site reveals all its charm in a more serene setting.
Day 1: Visit Rocamadour and its must-see sites
To start this escapade is to plunge into the unique atmosphere of a medieval village perched on a cliffside. The first day brings together the very essence of Rocamadour: religious heritage, animal encounters, fascinating shows and a magical atmosphere at nightfall.
How to enjoy the medieval village on Saturday morning?
In the morning, a visit to the medieval town is a must. Families wander the cobbled streets, discover the artisan stores and admire the panoramic views over the valley. The climb up the
A stroll through the medieval town also allows you to observe the houses hanging from the rock and the ancient fortified gates. A real journey back in time, perfect for arousing children’s curiosity and sharing family moments during this Rocamadour visit.
What family activities are you planning for the afternoon?
In the afternoon, head for Rocher des Aigles. This wildlife park offers a raptor show lasting around forty minutes. The sight of eagles, vultures and other majestic birds flying freely in front of the cliff is awe-inspiring for young and old alike. Exciting explanations of these fascinating animals make the experience both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
Just a few kilometers away, the Forêt des Singes awaits visitors. This park offers a unique opportunity to observe over 150 free-ranging macaques in an unspoilt natural environment. For around an hour and a half, visitors can observe their behavior, watch them being fed and listen to their caretakers’ anecdotes. This activity always delights children, and provides a fun way to gain a better understanding of the animal world.
Why not discover Rocamadour in the evening?
In the evening, the magic happens when the village lights up. The quiet alleyways are bathed in light, creating an unforgettable fairytale atmosphere. A stroll through the medieval town after dark offers a different spectacle, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor some local specialties and admire the illuminated panoramas of the Lot valley.
This convivial moment is the perfect end to the first day: the medieval city reveals a soothing face, ideal for sharing memories with the family before returning to your accommodation.
Day 2: Padirac chasm and a varied afternoon around Rocamadour
Sunday begins with an immersion in one of the Lot’s most impressive natural sites: the Gouffre de Padirac. Families can then choose from a range of options to personalize their afternoon according to their desires and the age of their children.
What can you expect to see at the Padirac chasm?
The Gouffre de Padirac is an underground wonder not to be missed on a holiday near Rocamadour. After descending the
The tour lasts around two hours , exploring impressive galleries and learning fascinating anecdotes about the formation of the chasm. It’s a fun and educational outing that appeals to children and adults alike, making it an unforgettable souvenir of the Lot adventure.
Where to go in the afternoon?
In the afternoon, there are several alternatives to complete this family weekend around Rocamadour:
- Grottes de Cougnac: Perfect for prolonging underground exploration, these caves, decorated with prehistoric paintings and magnificent stalactites, plunge young and old into the world of Cro-Magnon. The guided tour, rich in discoveries, will enthral all those curious about natural history.
- Canoeing on the Dordogne: For those who prefer outdoor adventure, a canoe trip on the Dordogne offers relaxation, sumptuous scenery and the pleasure of paddling with the whole family. It’s an accessible and fun activity, ideal for enjoying the Lot countryside in a different way.
- Picturesque villages: Loubressac and Autoire: These two listed villages are enchanting with their flower-filled lanes, religious heritage and breathtaking views. A stroll through medieval houses and bucolic landscapes will end your weekend on a peaceful, authentic note.
Other possible activities for your second day in Rocamadour
Each of these options allows you to adapt the program to your own pace and desires: exploration, sporting adventure or discovery of the local heritage, anything is possible around Rocamadour.
To help you plan your vacation and explore all the ideas for nearby outings, discover our selection oftourist activities in the Lot that highlight the region’s cultural, natural and family assets.
Which place to stay near Rocamadour?
To make the most of all these family activities, the La sole campsite in Rocamadour (25 km) is the ideal base in the northern Lot region. Located in the immediate vicinity of the medieval city, the Forêt des Singes and the Rocher des Aigles, it makes it easy to organize your stay without wasting time on the road.
Our family campsite in the Dordogne valley offers a green setting, child-friendly facilities, safe play areas and a friendly atmosphere typical of the Lot region. Families will also appreciate the entertainment on offer after a day of discovery. Staying at La Sole means combining comfort, authenticity and easy access to all the must-see sites in and around Rocamadour, for an unforgettable weekend with the kids.
- Situated 30 minutes from Rocamadour and 20 minutes from the Gouffre de Padirac, the campsite is an ideal base camp for exploring the Lot region without wasting time travelling. All major sites can be reached in less than 30 minutes.
- With just 73 pitches, the campsite cultivates the spirit of the campsites of yesteryear: authentic conviviality, no noisy entertainment, you hear the birds rather than the neighbors. A haven of peace on a human scale.
- Fully-equipped mobile homes, air-conditioned cottages, perched cabins, lodge tents or traditional pitches: every family will find the right accommodation, from the most comfortable to the most authentic.
- Covered swimming pool heated to 28°C with sunroof, 400 m² aqualudic area for children, overflow spa for adults, very shaded grounds planted with trees. 4-star comfort in an unspoilt natural setting.
