Sarlat: Private Day trip to Rocamadour & Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Discover the Charm of Rocamadour and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie on a Private Day Trip

This private day trip from Sarlat takes you to two of France’s most captivating medieval villages, Rocamadour and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Priced at $438 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, combining guided and self-guided explorations. The journey begins with a scenic drive of about one hour through the stunning landscapes of the Dordogne Valley, setting a picturesque tone for the day.

You’ll visit Rocamadour, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built against a cliff face in the Alzou canyon. The guided tour here highlights legendary sites like the miraculous chapel with its black virgin, the sarcophagus of St. Amadour, and the legendary sword Durandal. Afterward, you enjoy a lunch break with panoramic views (lunch not included), before heading to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a fairy tale village perched on a cliff overlooking the Lot River, where you explore at your own pace.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience with comfortable electric van transportation, allowing you to relax and take in the majestic scenery. It’s ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and stunning landscapes, though the tour is not accessible for people with reduced mobility.

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Key Points

• Private and customizable 8-hour tour from Sarlat to Rocamadour and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
• Includes guided tour of Rocamadour and self-guided exploration of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
• Scenic drive through the Dordogne Valley with photo stops
• Visit UNESCO-listed Rocamadour, famous for its miraculous chapel and rock sarcophagus
• Enjoy free time in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a picturesque medieval village
• Lunch not included, but a panoramic restaurant is available at Rocamadour (if available)

Starting Point and Transportation Details

The tour departs from Place Pasteur in Sarlat-la-Canéda, where travelers meet a comfortable electric van. The van ride lasts approximately one hour, during which the scenery of the Dordogne Valley unfurls, providing excellent photo opportunities along the way. After the initial drive, there is a 15-minute scenic viewpoint stop for panoramic views, perfect for capturing the landscape.

Exploring the Medieval Village of Rocamadour

The highlight of the tour is the guided visit to Rocamadour, one of France’s most striking medieval villages. Built against a sheer cliff face in the Alzou canyon, Rocamadour’s architecture is dramatic and picturesque. The walking tour lasts about 1.5 hours, during which the guide explains legends surrounding the miraculous chapel and points out the black virgin statue.

A significant sight is the sarcophagus of St. Amadour, carved into the rock of the cliff, which adds a sense of sacred history. Visitors also see the legendary sword Durandal, linked to the village’s lore. The tour includes a walk down the cross trail; an optional lift (cost not included) can be taken on the way back, making it accessible for those who prefer not to descend on foot.

Lunch and Scenic Drive through Causses du Lot

After the guided exploration, there’s a lunch break at a restaurant offering panoramic views of Rocamadour (lunch cost not included). The restaurant provides a chance to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery before continuing the journey.

Post-lunch, the van drives south through the Causses du Lot, an area known for its rugged beauty and expansive landscapes. The drive lasts about 75 minutes, offering more opportunities to appreciate the natural surroundings and take photos of the lush scenery.

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Self-Guided Tour of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

The tour’s second highlight is Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, perched on a cliff overlooking the Lot River. This medieval village is a photographer’s paradise, with steep-roofed houses and winding alleyways that seem straight out of a fairy tale. You have approximately 1.5 hours for a self-guided exploration, allowing you to wander at your own pace.

The village is dominated by a fortified church, and its charming streets showcase honey-colored stone buildings and brown-tiled roofs. Visitors appreciate how the village’s harmony and atmosphere evoke the past, making it a perfect setting for relaxed strolling and photography.

Return Journey and Logistics

After exploring Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, the electric van makes its way back to Sarlat-la-Canéda, with the journey lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The tour concludes at Place Pasteur, the starting point, enabling easy access to local transport options or additional sightseeing.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour is designed for those comfortable with walking and standing, as it is not accessible for people with reduced mobility. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes to navigate cobbled streets and slopes, especially in the villages. Since lunch is not included, bringing snacks or planning for a meal at the restaurant in Rocamadour is recommended.

Comparing Similar Experiences

While there are other tours available to Rocamadour, this private tour from Sarlat offers the advantage of personalized attention and flexibility to explore at your own pace in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. The inclusion of a guided tour of Rocamadour and scenic drives distinguishes it from purely self-guided options. The private group setting enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for tailored questions and interaction.

Why Choose This Tour

This private day trip suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and scenery enthusiasts who want a curated experience of two iconic villages. The scenic drive, combined with guided storytelling and free time, ensures a balanced day. The price point reflects the exclusivity and comfort of a private group, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking an intimate and detailed exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Rocamadour & Saint-Cirq-Lapopie Day Trip

This 8-hour private tour from Sarlat offers a comprehensive visit to two of France’s most beautiful medieval villages. The guided tour of Rocamadour reveals legendary sights, while self-guided time in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie allows for personal discovery. The scenic drive through the Dordogne Valley adds to the memorable experience.

While lunch is not included, the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views and explore two historic sites makes this tour a well-rounded choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate history, stunning landscapes, and personalized attention in a private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not accessible for people with reduced mobility, and walking is involved in exploring the villages.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes transportation in an electric van, a guided tour of Rocamadour, and self-guided exploration of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.

Can I bring my own lunch or snacks?
Since lunch is not included, travelers can bring snacks or plan to eat at the restaurant available in Rocamadour, which offers panoramic views.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobbled streets and uneven surfaces in both villages.

How long is the scenic drive?
The drive from Sarlat to Rocamadour is about one hour, with a 15-minute scenic viewpoint stop. The return trip from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie takes roughly 1.5 hours.

Is there an elevator in Rocamadour?
An elevator is available at an additional cost (about €2.80 per person including guide), which can assist with descent or ascent.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak French and English, providing accessible narration for most travelers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

This private day trip from Sarlat combines the best of history, scenery, and personal exploration, promising a memorable visit to two of France’s most treasured medieval sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby