The 14 things to do in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

In this village perched at the top of the Lot cliffs, so many splendors do not leave indifferent, what do you expect to visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?

Describe Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is not so easy as the beauty of this village with Gothic houses is omnipresent! Located in the heart of nature and by the water, this medieval town is one of the most intimate in France. In addition to being elected the favourite French village in 2012, he is full of sumptuous historical monuments. When you arrive in this town, you will soon be overwhelmed. Castles dug in the rock, paved alleys marked by time and rocky cliffs... Saint-Cirq-Lapopie definitely has a lot to offer. There everything can happen: a beginning of love history, a family stay or a first solo journey. Whatever your intentions, visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie must be done at least once in a lifetime.

1. Château de Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

To visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie at best, you must absolutely start with its castle! If you have never tasted the castle life, that of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie will marvel at you. Located in the main street of the village, this beautiful castle features visiting remains and guest rooms. Inside, you will find sumptuous paintings and a decoration of another era. While staying there for a few nights, you will enjoy its breathtaking view of the Lot.

His little plus? A pool on the side of rocks. Nothing better to relax after a long day of visits.

2. Rignault Museum

The Rignault Museum is a traditional Saint-Cirquoise house. When you visit it, you will instantly interfere in the privacy of the village.

In addition, you can enjoy a country walk in its flowery gardens. From there you will have a breathtaking view of the Lot green valley. A haven of peace not to be missed!

3. Church of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

The imposing Gothic church of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie was built from 1522. His sculpted acanthle leaf decor of the 12th century and his mural paintings of the 13th century will be your attention.

To visit it and admire its old Gothic style, just enter it. Visits, like many other places in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, are free all year round. It is a must to visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie!

4. La Maison Breton

This house is named after the famous author and poet André Breton, his former owner. She belonged to her from 1951 until she died. Every summer he returned to this very special home. And for the little story, he invited all his friends to put their suitcases there at the same time as him. Man Ray , Miró, Max Ernst or Henri Cartier-Bresson stayed there. Visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie takes you back to French Art and Literature!

Moreover, this magnetic place, totally out of time, is now within the reach of all. Come and discover this place where surreal art, poetry and freedom of thought was a day in a boil. This house or the nature around it may help you find inspiration. Buy water painting and a white canvas to transform you into a grass artist. A great opportunity to leave your imagination free.

5. Point of view of the Bancourel

Visiting Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is at this splendid point of view overlooking the green valley has benches and tables. So you can pick up and even eat. Far from all, you will have only one thing to do: relax and listen to birds singing.

To access it, nothing simpler. Go to parking n°5 the Bancourel only five minutes walk from the village in the heights.

6. Medieval houses

Cross the time of the most beautiful ways by walking in the paved streets of this medieval town. Fold and create your own path or opt for a commented visit to the historic centre. This tour proposed by the tourist office retraces the rich history of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.

For two hours you can contemplate the remains of the seigneurial castle as well as the merchant and medieval houses. Thanks to an experienced guide, all the secrets of this town with unique charm will be revealed to you. But don't! It's between us, you and your guide.

7. Houses Daura

In the Daura houses, a research and artistic innovation centre emerged in early March 2005. Since then, artists and researchers from all over the world have collaborated on various projects. Visitors can discover during the summer of the works made in the spring.

You will also have the opportunity to exchange with the inhabitants of the village. Especially by strolling in the main street of this town. All artists and craftsmen know each other. Thanks to them, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie was able to keep its authentic appearance year after year. Maybe you'll even see a man on horseback at the corner of a street... Who knows?

8. Moulin D’Aulanac

You will soon feel like you are in a fairy tale in front of this mill composed of exposed stones and doves.

If you want to discover the interior and its two pair of wheels, book a visit directly to the tourist office. Otherwise, admire the beautiful stones that compose it and that are reflected in the Lot.

9. Cirque de Vènes

This 14-kilometre loop is an absolutely divine track. You will see wild flowers with multiple colors. You will also enjoy a nice view of the cliffs of Tour-de-Faure and the Lot valley. A perfect place to take unforgettable photos.

Review to lovers hiking and Sunday walkers: this path is really worth borrowing!

10. Rocher de Lapopie

In the shape of a mamelle, this rock once supported the first castle of the site. A window was then fitted out below.

Today, the top of the rock offers an incredible view of the limestone rocks and the roofs of the village.

11. Chapelle Sainte-Croix

Modernized in the early 1980s, this chapel overlooks the beautiful cliffs of Coudoulous. You can also follow the river downstream.

To access this pretty Chapel Sainte-Croix, take GR 36 towards Concots. Then you'll need 20 minutes to reach it on foot. Don’t forget to equip yourself with good sneakers and a bottle of water!

12. The Fourdonne

This house built at the end of the Renaissance period is surrounded by greenery. It is also a meeting place combining art and heritage. Animations, fun tours, musical naps and events of all kinds are organized.

If you want to focus on art and opt for a specialized internship, La Fourdonne also offers accommodation. A warm cottage where art and music will rhythm your stay from beginning to end. Visiting Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is also taking time.

13. The Wine Museum

Two winemakers welcome you to discover the local products. Whether you're a small little or a large gourmet.e, this museum offers tastings of Quercy's gourmet products (sometimes fat, truffle, saffron, etc.). And of course, the incontournable wine of Cahors!

In addition, the entire team knows very well the producers of the region. Come awaken your senses and sharpen your palate to the Wine Museum.

14. Pilgrims Au Pain

Put on your bakery hull and take some pastry classes with Pat Hains.

Using a wood oven, you will create your own bread and be able to leave with it. Pat Hains studied bread cooking in France, in France Italy and Germany . She was interested in European breads. The owner of the place will be able to tell you everything about this French tradition that makes our global specificity.

How to get to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?

• By the train: from Paris Austerlitz or Lyon Perrache, board an intercity to Cahors. Then go from train to bus 889 to stop at Tour-de-Faure.
• By the road: since Bordeauxborrow the A62 and then the D953. You will arrive at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in just 3h11. From Montpellier, you will not have much longer to travel. By the way to the A75, 3h22 enough to reach this old village.

Where to stay in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?

• For lovers of barbecue and petanque parts, campsite La Truffière will be ideal. It is located in the heart of the Quercy Causses Regional Park and has its own heated swimming pool.
• Not far from there, you can also opt for a nature break by trying a fun concept: modern yurts. Here again you will have access to an outdoor pool and heated indoor pools. Les Hauts d’Albas are open all year round and can make you discover this unusual accommodation right from Mongolia.
• Finally and for comfort lovers, you can choose to sleep in the pleasant Sombral hostel or in one of the rooms Hotel Spa le Saint-Cirq. These two establishments are located in the middle of the village. They will allow you to stay immersed in the medieval atmosphere.

There you go! If tomorrow your friends ask you: “What to do in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie?” you will only have the embarrassment of choice to answer. It’s simple, enchantment is everywhere. Don’t hesitate to visit the tourist office at the beginning of your stay for even more good ideas to visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Finally, tell us the place you preferred in the comments once your stay is finished.