Rocamadour & the Gouffre de Padirac: the ultimate day trip north of the Lot
A cliffside village in the morning, an underground river in the afternoon
If you are staying three days or more, treat yourself to this day trip: a sacred town clinging to the cliff in the morning, and a boat ride on an underground river in the afternoon. Two of the most spectacular sites in the Lot.
1. Morning: Rocamadour, the town suspended over the Alzou canyon
Park at the top (Hospitalet or Les Garennes parking) and start with the viewpoints: the view of the village set against the cliff face is unforgettable. Then walk down the Stations of the Cross to the sanctuaries: Notre-Dame chapel and its walnut wood Black Madonna (late 12th–early 13th century), Saint-Sauveur basilica, and even a chapel dedicated to rugby! The brave can climb back up the Grand Staircase of 216 steps that pilgrims used to climb on their knees.
2. Lunch: taste real Rocamadour AOP cheese
Impossible to leave without tasting the small goat cheese named after the village: a small disk of about 35 grams, AOP, delightfully creamy. Served in a warm salad, on a slice of country bread, or plain with a glass of Cahors wine, it's the perfect lunch before an afternoon underground.
3. Afternoon: the Gouffre de Padirac and its underground river
Head down 103 meters underground for a visit of about 1h30, featuring a boat crossing guided by boatmen on a turquoise river. Note: the cave is open from late March to around All Saints' Day, and you must book your time slot online in advance (around €20 per adult). Bring a sweater: it's cool underground, even in mid-summer.
4. Our timing tip
In July and August, arrive in Rocamadour before 10:00 to enjoy the streets before the crowds, and book Padirac for early afternoon. Off-season, Rocamadour alone is worth the trip: the village can be visited year-round.
Rocamadour: self-guided visit year-round. Gouffre de Padirac: late March to around All Saints' Day, online booking required (≈ €20 per adult), tour of about 1h30.
Book Padirac before leaving: summer time slots are often fully booked.