Day five in the seven-day Dordogne marathon trip with my long-time friend, Julie, was one thing we looked forward to the most– Visit Rocamadour.
The village carved into a hill, Rocamadour, takes at least a half-day to explore. It is recommended you arrive early to catch the best view because it is east-facing. Oh well…today we took our time leaving the hotel and probably enjoyed the visit more because we were rested. There are lots of hills and steps to climb.
Walking tour map of Rocamadour
Walking tour map Rocamadour
Rocamadour
Visit Rocamadour
I’d heard of Rocamadore many times and seen pictures, I knew little about its history. Did you know the name of the village is really “Roc-Amadore,” and it was named for Saint Amadore? Did you know that Saint Amadore was thought by many to be Zacchaeus of the Bible? Did you know a bone of Saint Amadore’s is enshrined at the chapel in Rocamadour?
Relic Bone of Zacchaeus
That’s only the beginning of the tales and legends of the place so many have visited—the eleventh century. Rocamadour is, in fact, a pilgrim’s center.
Aside from being along the trail of Compostella, Rocamadore’s holy relics bring worshippers there to “admire” to “contemplate” and to “pray.”
“Admiring” Rocamodore is easy.
“Contemplating” wasn’t easy with the crowds of people everywhere, even though vacation season is over.
“Praying” is inevitable when you realize the importance of the shrines throughout the village.
Remains of Saint Amadour inside
Almost every town you visit in France has a memorial to their war dead. Rocamadour is no exception. Mostly remembered are the veterans of the “Great War” — World War I
Statue honoring war dead in Rocamadour
Of course, a day in France always means great food. That’s a given. And what’s a meal without a pichet of rose? Truly, I adore Roc-AMADORE.
Tomorrow: Market day in Sarlat.
For more on the Dordogne
7 Days in Dordogne: Step-by-Step
7 Days in Dordogne: Albi to Cahors
7 Days in Dordogne: Cahors to Sarlat
7 Days In Dordogne: Lascaux to Brantôme
7 Days in Dordogne: Market Day in Sarlat
7 Days in Dordogne: Up, Up and Away!
7 Days in Dordogne: The Finale
Categories: Around France, Blog, Dordogne, Loving Food, Loving History, Rocamodore
Maravilloso. Muchas gracias‼ Meravigliosa. Grazie‼
Thank you! I hope you will continue to enjoy reading the posts.
I loved this place. We stayed at the Best Western in the village and loved the view. Thank you for taking me back there.
There are some amazing views in Uzès. I especially love that you can see the Duchè in the skyline from miles around. It’s a very special place to live in and to visit. Come again. There’s more!
It looks amazing! I especially love the fact you included the beautiful illustration on the walking map along with your own wonderful photos. Enjoy every minute!
I figured if anyone was planning a visit there, they might like an idea of the area to cover. It was magical. Thanks so much for your note.
Hi there,
Thanks for sharing your photos. I am heading to Dordogne for ten days walking in April. What is on your list of must see places? Can you suggest a ten day walk without having to use too much public transport? With appreciation. Mark
Oh, Mark. Lucky you! I loved the Dordogne. Not sure about the walking because I’m a casual walker, but it must be easily do-able in the Dordogne since some areas are on the Camino de Santiago trail and I saw several rest stations. For must see places, definitely Rocamadore and Brantome. There are several blog posts on my visit to Dordogne that might give you some ideas. Keep in touch and tell me what you find out about walking venues. You can send me an email at deborah@bfblogger.com if you wish. Happy Holidays!
Check into ATG-oxford.co.uk and read their Dordogne walking journey descriptions. Superb company with top-on walking journeys.
I definitely want to see more of the Dordogne. Thanks for the tips.
Magnifique!
Oui!
This woman moved to Uzes (where I want to life if not in Paris). She’s now on a trip similar to ours in the Dordogne and writing a daily blog about it.
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what a special place!
A beautiful day. But Sarlat’s now my favorite!
We had been to Rocamadour on our trip to the Dordogne region but I didn’t know about the Zacharias connection. I do remember being somewhat car-sick due to the winding road. But it is a lovely spot. Our visit was nearly 25 years ago, but we still talk about Rocamadour and we bought lovely Gien espresso and cafe au lait cups there, so we have those tangible reminders as well. Always great to live vicariously through you and your postings. Thanks Deborah!
Actually, it was a mistake. I should have said Zacchaeus. It’s one of those biblical legends that was mentioned in the tour book. I’ll check it out later when I write more. Thanks for going along with me on this trip, Maria!
We loved this place and it is a not to miss destination. You did a great job of describing this place–congratulations. Remember the people having to climb the stairs which were strewn with glass on their hands and knees!!!
Ouch! I have LOTS of fois gras for aperos!!