Camino Le Puy Way: Stage 3 and 4 - Conques to Cahors via Rocamadour

Arrive in Conques a true gem of Romanesque art nestled in lush greenery.

To fully appreciate Conques and its stunning Romanesque abbey, we recommend arriving by late morning or early afternoon, allowing plenty of time to explore this remarkable heritage site at your leisure.

In Conques, overnight stays at the abbey are available on request. This pilgrim accommodation offers simple, comfortable rooms and is run by dedicated volunteers. Guests can expect basic comforts, with shared bathroom facilities serving several rooms, providing an authentic and welcoming experience for those walking the Way of St James.

YOUR ACCOMMODATION

To reflect the spirit of the Pilgrimage, we carefully select welcoming, simple accommodation along the route. We offer stays in hotels and guest houses. While these stays may not offer the same level of luxury as our classic Headwater holidays, they provide genuine hospitality and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

You will enjoy private rooms and private bathrooms wherever possible, ensuring a restful night after a full day of walking. On the rare occasions when this cannot be arranged, we will let you know in advance.

Most of the properties we work with are small and family-run, and availability varies depending on how early you book. Full details of your stays will be provided closer to your departure date.

Set off for the surrounding hills, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the village of Conques. Along the way, visit the historic Saint-Roch Chapel, once a revered pilgrimage site. Saint Roch is especially venerated by Jacobean pilgrims, often depicted as a pilgrim accompanied by a bumblebee and the iconic scallop shell, symbols deeply connected to the Way of St James.

Depart for Montredon, a charming village dominated by the Saint-Michel Church. Continue to Guirande and explore its beautiful Romanesque chapel of Sainte-Marie.

Journey through the peaceful countryside before arriving in Figeac, the birthplace of the linguistic genius Jean-Francois Champollion. Here, you can visit a dedicated museum celebrating his remarkable achievements. Don't miss the chance to discover Figeac's historic Benedictine abbey, dating back to the ninth century.

Today, you leave the GR65 to follow the alternative route via the GR6, crossing the medieval village of Cardaillac. Nestled around its ancient fort and perched on a plateau dotted with chestnut trees, Cardaillac offers a glimpse into history. The path winds through valleys and forests, where bubbling streams add to the tranquil scenery.

After passing the charming village of Saint-Bressou, you arrive at Lacapelle-Marival, dominated by its impressive castle. Inside the 15th-century church, admire a remarkable painting by Jacques Gamelin depicting the Assumption of the Virgin.

Cross the Limargue, a fertile land known for its livestock and cereal fields. Before reaching Gramat, explore the charming villages of Rudelle, a historic bastide founded in 1250, and Themines, home to a well-preserved 13th-century market hall and the notable Beaulieu Hospital.

On arrival in Gramat, the tranquil gardens of the Grand Couvent offer a perfect spot for contemplation and relaxation, with the option to visit the beautifully maintained park.

This stage invites you to explore the pristine natural beauty of the Ouysse Valleys and the dramatic Alzou Canyon. Along the way, discover the ruins of old mills that once harnessed the river's current.

Protected Natural Area, these valleys safeguard diverse wildlife including peregrine falcons, otters, and rare orchids. Your journey concludes in the stunning cliffside town of Rocamadour, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking setting and rich heritage.

Depart for the village of Couzou, home to a castle classified as a Historic Monument since 1992. Continue past the unique La Comte windmill, notable for its two pairs of millstones, then on to the old English bastide of Montfaucon. Perched on a promontory and founded in 1292, Montfaucon offers striking views and rich history.

Experience the breathtaking panorama of the Bel-Air plateau before journeying through the picturesque valleys of the Rauze and the Vers rivers. Along the way, pass the historic Commandery of Cras and the remarkable Gallo-Roman aqueduct of Divona. Explore the ancient oppidum of Murcens before arriving at the charming village of Vers.

Enjoy stunning panoramas of the Lot River and its historic locks. Explore the old towpath leading to the picturesque village of Arcambal, home to a 15th-century church and the impressive Bousquet Castle, classified as a Historic Monument.

Arrive in Cahors, a charming town nestled within a meander of the Lot. Discover the iconic Valentre Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a renowned symbol for pilgrims on the Way of St James.

Leave Cahors and onward travels.

Enjoy exploring the town and consider an extra night before heading home.