This iconic itinerary takes you to discover the most beautiful sites in Southwest France. From the medieval town of Sarlat to the sacred city of Rocamadour and the depths of the Padirac Chasm, prepare for an unforgettable journey through history, nature and gastronomy.
Of Wonders
A concentration of the most beautiful sites in Périgord and Quercy
Circuit Overview
This circuit can be done in 3 days minimum, but we recommend 4 to 5 days to fully enjoy each stop without rushing.
Practical Information
- Total distance: Approximately 200 km
- Recommended duration: 3 to 5 days
- Starting point: Sarlat-la-Canéda
- End point: Rocamadour (or loop back)
- Best period: May-June or September
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Sarlat-la-Canéda
Morning: Stroll through the historic centre of Sarlat, a jewel of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Admire the Hôtel de La Boétie, Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral and the cobbled streets.
Lunch: Lunch at Sarlat market (Saturday morning) or in a traditional inn. Taste foie gras, truffles in season and Périgord walnuts.
Afternoon: Visit Château de Beynac or the Marqueyssac Gardens for a panoramic view of the Dordogne valley.
Evening: Night in Sarlat or drive to Rocamadour (1h).
Day 2: Dordogne Villages
Morning: Discover La Roque-Gageac, a troglodyte village on the banks of the Dordogne. Option for a gabarre (traditional boat) trip.
Lunch: Lunch in Domme, a hilltop bastide with stunning views of the valley.
Afternoon: Scenic drive towards the Lot. Stop at Carennac or Loubressac, villages classified as "Most Beautiful Villages in France".
Evening: Check in at Hôtel Les Vieilles Tours, near Rocamadour.
Day 3: Rocamadour
Morning: Visit Rocamadour: sacred city, sanctuaries, Black Madonna. Climb the 216 steps of the Grand Staircase or take the lift.
Lunch: Lunch with a view over the Alzou valley.
Afternoon: Monkey Forest and/or Rock of Eagles. Walk in the Alzou Canyon.
Evening: Sunset over illuminated Rocamadour from L'Hospitalet.
Day 4: The Padirac Chasm
Morning: Visit the Padirac Chasm: descend 103m underground, boat ride on the underground river. Book early in high season!
Lunch: Picnic in the area or lunch in Gramat.
Afternoon: Visit Autoire (waterfall and village) or relax by the hotel pool.
Evening: Gourmet dinner at one of our recommended restaurants.
Day 5 (optional): Quercy Villages
Morning: Discover the most beautiful villages of the Lot: Autoire, Loubressac with its panoramic view, Carennac and its priory.
Lunch: Lunch at a local market or farm inn.
Afternoon: Return to Sarlat or extend your stay in Rocamadour.
Circuit Variations
Express Version (3 days)
- Day 1: Sarlat + La Roque-Gageac
- Day 2: Rocamadour (full day)
- Day 3: Padirac Chasm + return
Relaxed Version (5-7 days)
- Add Saint-Cirq-Lapopie and the Lot valley
- Plan a day of canoeing on the Dordogne
- Visit prehistoric caves (Lascaux IV, Pech-Merle)
- Enjoy local markets (Sarlat, Martel, Gramat)
Practical Tips
Where to Stay?
For this circuit, we recommend staying in Rocamadour, ideally located at the centre of the itinerary. Hôtel Les Vieilles Tours offers the perfect setting to explore the region.
How to Get Around?
A car is essential for this circuit. The roads are pleasant and well signposted. Bring a GPS or map, some small roads are not covered.
When to Go?
- May-June: Ideal, all sites are open, fewer crowds
- July-August: Very busy, book in advance
- September: Excellent choice, harvest season, golden light
Approximate Budget
- Accommodation: €80-150/night for a charming hotel
- Meals: €15-40/person depending on restaurants
- Visits: Padirac (€18), Rocamadour (free), Monkey Forest (€12)
- Fuel: ~€50 for the complete circuit
Your Ideal Base Camp
Hôtel Les Vieilles Tours is perfectly located to explore this circuit. Pool, panoramic terrace and gourmet breakfast await you.
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