What to do in Rocamadour
Situated in the heart of the Lot department, in the famous Dordogne valley, Rocamadour fascinates visitors with its unique character and breathtaking panorama. Known for its medieval town perched on the side of a cliff, this destination offers an impressive range of family activities. From historical discoveries to nature adventures and fun, there’s something for everyone, from the very young to the very old.
Discover the medieval city and its must-see sites
A visit to Rocamadour naturally begins with an exploration of the medieval town, a journey back in time that leaves no one indifferent. Strolling through the cobbled streets, passing under fortified gates and stopping in front of ancient houses immerses young and old in a fairytale atmosphere.
Climbing the 216 steps of the Grand Escalier leads to one of the village’s highlights: the sanctuary and its remarkably well-preserved religious sites. Here, seven superimposed chapels form an extraordinary ensemble, including the famous Chapelle Notre-Dame, home to the Black Madonna, the object of numerous pilgrimages.
A walk along the ramparts and the Fig Tree Gate
It’s impossible to miss the ramparts that encircle the old town. Climbing up these fortifications gives you a breathtaking view of the Dordogne valley and an insight into the strategic role Rocamadour played in the Middle Ages.
The Porte du Figuier, the main entrance to the medieval town, welcomes all visitors with its imposing architecture. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring this village, ranked among the most beautiful in France.
The Way of the Cross to the castle
The shady path leading from the sanctuary to Rocamadour castle invites families to a walk punctuated by stations illustrating the Stations of the Cross. The arrival at the summit offers an exceptional panorama and a playful visit to the keep for children who love knights.
The castle’s terrace also offers a breathtaking view of the entire site, from the cliffs to the hanging houses that line the valley.
Explore the caves and chasms around Rocamadour
Underground wonders are one of the must-do activities during a family holiday in Rocamadour. In the Lot region, caves and chasms offer spectacular sights and unique sensations, all within easy reach of the medieval town.
Less than ten kilometers away, several natural caves open their mysterious bowels, revealing stalactites, galleries and underground rivers for children to marvel at.
- Grotte des Merveilles: This small cave, located just above Rocamadour, reveals authentic prehistoric paintings dating back almost 20,000 years. The guided tour is both captivating and educational for young science buffs.
- Gouffre de Padirac: Twenty minutes’ drive away, this gigantic cavern offers a boat trip on an underground river and monumental chambers. The Gouffre is awe-inspiring for parents and children alike, thanks to its captivating natural setting and fascinating legends.
These sublime natural spaces add an adventurous dimension to vacations, allowing the whole family to escape the summer heat for a few refreshing hours.
Meet animals and have fun in the great outdoors
Rocamadour also boasts a wide range of wildlife parks, perfect for sharing unforgettable moments with the whole family. Several leisure sites are just a few minutes from the historic center, combining educational discoveries with outdoor fun.
The surrounding countryside and the richness of the local fauna turn every outing into a nature adventure, ideal for arousing the curiosity of youngsters while enjoying the superb scenery. To take full advantage of all these activities in the heart of the Lot, you can stay at a Rocamadour campsite, where relaxation, walks and immersion in nature are guaranteed for the whole family.
Eagle Rock
This iconic wildlife park is home to birds of prey from all over the world. Spectacular displays showcase vultures, falcons, owls and parrots in free flight over Rocamadour. These educational events raise public awareness of bird protection and delight enthusiasts and novices alike.
Between sessions, visitors can get up close and personal with these majestic residents in an unspoilt natural setting. Young and old alike are often blown away by the complicity displayed between caretakers and birds.
The monkey forest
Another original place to explore is the monkey forest, home to around 100 Barbary macaques living in semi-liberty. A guided walk through this reserve allows children to observe these amazing animals in their daily lives, and even to witness their meal.
Guides share anecdotes and explanations, while ensuring everyone’s safety. It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce youngsters to the importance of respecting biodiversity, while living close to nature.
- Educational farms: Many farms in the surrounding area open their doors to families keen to discover local know-how, taste fresh produce and stroke sheep or goats.
- Easy hikes: Around Rocamadour, pleasant signposted trails wind through valleys, woods and meadows, accessible even with baby carriages or small children.
Visit museums and delve into local history
The Rocamadour region is home to a number of small museums offering a deeper insight into the culture of the Lot. Although most of them are concentrated in the medieval town itself, a few are well worth a visit to liven up a family program.
These places often emphasize interactivity, displaying antique objects, traditional tools or works of art telling the story of local life in different eras.
- Musée de la Vie Quotidienne (Museum of Daily Life): Located a stone’s throw from the Porte du Figuier, this museum takes visitors back to the daily lives of Lot inhabitants in centuries gone by, through re-enactments and themed workshops.
- Moulins et artisans d’art: Some of our neighboring villages offer demonstrations of old-fashioned trades, from miller to potter, to captivate the curiosity of children.
Exploring these museums is the perfect complement to a morning devoted to the medieval city, offering families a fun and cultural break between two outdoor escapades.
Combining local heritage with hands-on discovery of the area makes for a richly memorable visit.
Enjoy a convivial stay at Camping la Sole
Finding suitable accommodation makes a successful family getaway to Rocamadour a whole lot easier. Close to all the Lot’s major attractions, Camping la Sole offers the peace and comfort you need to recharge your batteries after a busy day.
Camping la Sole boasts family-friendly facilities, including a swimming pool, playground, spacious pitches and chalets for rent, so everyone can relax in ideal conditions. What’s more, its central location makes it easy to reach the region’s main attractions without long journeys.
- Secure outdoor pool, perfect for children
- Shaded play areas and family entertainment in season
- Local cuisine to take away or eat in
- Convivial atmosphere for vacations with friends or several generations
By choosing to stay at this campsite in the Dordogne valley, families benefit from a warm welcome and personalized advice on how to organize each day according to the mood of the moment. This reliable base turns every Rocamadour experience into a successful vacation, combining cultural discoveries, natural wonder and the pleasures of life in the great outdoors.
