The exquisite natural setting and beautiful buildings have made Rocamadour France's second-most visited site after Mount St. Michael in Normandy.

Rocamadour The exquisite natural setting and beautiful buildings have made Rocamadour France's second-most visited site after Mount St. Michael in Normandy. Rocamadour, situated in the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy, is 36 miles north-northeast of Cahors and near the Dordogne Valley. You can't take your car into the village but there is a car park at the bottom of the hill and a little train that will take you up to the village if you don't feel like walking.

Rocamadour is set into the cliffs and on top of a a rocky plateau as the picture shows. It overlooks the Alzou Valley and has spectacular views. The streets of the village are lined with medieval houses.

From the village climb the 216 steps to reach the 12th century Chapelle de Notre-Dame and the 11th century Basilique St-Saveur. The Chapelle de Notre-Dame is devoted almost exclusively to the venerated Black Madonna statue whilst the Basilique St-Saveur has some well preserved 12th century frescoes.

There are plenty of restaurants in the town along with many tourist shops. It is best to visit early or late if you visit in the height of the summer.

Whilst there don't forget to try the local Rocamadour goats cheese. Its simply melts in the mouth!