The Sarlat-Rocamadour-Padirac circuit is one of the most popular itineraries in South-West France. To make the most of this "golden triangle", your choice of accommodation is crucial. Should you stay in Sarlat, Rocamadour, or opt for a central position? Here is our complete guide to help you choose.
Key Distances
- Sarlat → Rocamadour: 55 km (50 min)
- Rocamadour → Padirac: 12 km (15 min)
- Sarlat → Padirac: 45 km (45 min)
Three Accommodation Strategies
Option 1: A Single Central Base
The most practical solution is to choose a central accommodation and explore each day to the circuit sites. Advantages: no repacking, return to the same place each evening, possibility to adapt your programme according to the weather.
Option 2: Two Stops
Split your stay between Sarlat (2-3 nights) for the Périgord Noir and Rocamadour (2-3 nights) for Quercy. You'll discover two different atmospheres.
Option 3: Itinerant
Change accommodation each night to stay closest to the sites visited. Less practical but more immersive for travellers who like to vary their experiences.
Our Recommendation
For a 4-5 day stay, opt for a single base in Rocamadour. You're at the geographical heart of the circuit, less than an hour from all major sites, while avoiding the tourist bustle of Sarlat.
Staying in Rocamadour: Our Selection
Rocamadour offers an ideal central position. You're 15 minutes from Padirac and 50 minutes from Sarlat. The medieval city is at your doorstep for evening visits.
Category: 3-star charming hotel
Location: On the heights, panoramic view over the valley, 3 km from Rocamadour
Features: Outdoor pool, gourmet restaurant, free parking, absolute peace
Ideal for: Couples, families, road-trippers seeking serenity
Distance: Padirac (15 min), Sarlat (50 min), Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (50 min)
Other Options in Rocamadour
Category: 2-star hotel
Location: In the medieval city
Features: Unique location in the heart of the site, cliff view
Drawback: Limited vehicle access, distant parking
Category: 3-star hotel
Location: Facing the sanctuaries
Features: Exceptional view of the city, panoramic restaurant
Drawback: In tourist area, busy during the day
Staying in Sarlat
Sarlat-la-Canéda is the most touristy town in the Périgord Noir. Advantage: lively nightlife, numerous restaurants, exceptional Saturday market. Disadvantage: further from Padirac and Quercy, difficult parking in high season.
About Sarlat
- Very busy town in July-August
- Paid and limited parking in the city centre
- Often higher accommodation prices
- Off-centre position relative to Padirac and Cahors
Accommodation Options in Sarlat
- Charming hotels: Plaza Madeleine, Clos La Boëtie, Relais de Moussidière
- Guest houses: Numerous in the medieval centre
- Rentals: Cottages and apartments on the outskirts
Staying Near Padirac Chasm
Few accommodations exist in Padirac itself. Most visitors stay in Rocamadour (15 min) or in surrounding villages like Carennac or Loubressac.
Picturesque Villages Nearby
- Carennac (10 min from Padirac): One of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, a few B&Bs
- Loubressac (15 min): Hilltop village, cottages with views
- Autoire (20 min): Natural cirque, charming accommodations
Tips for Choosing Well
According to Your Profile
- Families with children: Choose a hotel with pool, away from pedestrian zones (Les Vieilles Tours, hotels on the outskirts)
- Romantic couples: Charming guest house or hotel with gourmet restaurant
- Road-trippers: Accommodation with free parking and central position
- Budget travellers: Regional campsites or seasonal rentals
According to the Season
- High season (July-August): Book 2-3 months in advance
- Mid-season (May-June, September): Book 1 month in advance
- Low season: More availability but some establishments closed
Why Choose Les Vieilles Tours
Our hotel combines all the advantages for your Sarlat-Rocamadour-Padirac circuit:
Our Assets
- Central position: Equidistant from all circuit sites
- Peace and serenity: Away from tourist bustle
- Pool: To relax after visits
- Restaurant: Dine on-site without driving again
- Free parking: Essential for a car circuit
- Local advice: Our team knows all the region's secrets
Book Your Base for the Circuit
Settle in at Les Vieilles Tours and explore the Sarlat-Rocamadour-Padirac golden triangle in complete serenity. Our team helps you plan your days.
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