About This Route

This spectacular route joins two of France's greatest Marian shrines: the cliff-top sanctuary of Rocamadour, where the Black Madonna has received pilgrims since the 12th century, and the Grotto of Massabielle at Lourdes. The path descends from the Quercy limestone plateaux through the Lot and Aveyron valleys, crosses the Pyrenean foothills of the Gers and Hautes-Pyrénées, and arrives at Lourdes via the Gave de Pau river valley. Walking from one Marian sanctuary to another gives this route an extraordinary spiritual coherence: you leave in the presence of Our Lady and arrive in her presence.

Route Stages

Rocamadour → Gramat

12 km

Begin at the famous clifftop sanctuary, descend through the Alzou canyon and gorge to the plateau town of Gramat

Gramat → Figeac

35 km

2-day stage through Quercy limestone valleys and the Célé river gorge; Figeac is a beautiful medieval town

Figeac → Condom

65 km

3-day stage across the Gers, the heart of Armagnac country; gentle rolling farmland and sunflower fields

Condom → Aire-sur-l'Adour

45 km

2-day stage through Gascony approaching the Pyrenean foothills; pilgrim gîtes throughout

Aire-sur-l'Adour → Lourdes

42 km

Final two stages join the Via Podiensis GR65; emotional arrival at the Sanctuary by the Gave river

Route Highlights

★Beginning at the legendary Black Madonna of Rocamadour

★The Célé and Lot river gorges, some of France's most dramatic scenery

★Gers Gascon countryside, vineyards and Armagnac distilleries

★Joining the GR65 for the final approach to Lourdes

★Arriving at the Sanctuary having walked from one great Marian shrine to another

Pilgrim Tips

💡The route can be walked in sections: 3 days from Aire-sur-l'Adour makes an excellent standalone pilgrimage
💡Rocamadour itself deserves 2 nights: visit the Chapelle Miraculeuse in the early morning before other visitors arrive
💡The Gers section (Condom area) is hot in July–August, walk early mornings and rest midday
💡A pilgrim credential (carnet) stamped in Rocamadour and at each gîte makes a beautiful keepsake