An essential stopover for pilgrims on the Vézelay route, the church of Sainte-Marie de Roquefort, built in the 12th century from local limestone, is one of the most remarkable in the region. It overlooks a rocky spur at the foot of which the Estampon and the Doulouze rivers meet. Their banks are the perfect place for a stroll. Visitors can also discover the medieval remains of this pleasant bastide, its ramparts, towers, alleyways, squares, old market halls, houses and mansions, and the old prison. On Saturday, market day, the stalls line up along the avenue leading to the bullfighting arenas, which were built entirely of wood in the early 1950s. Before leaving Roquefort, don’t miss a visit to Marc Darroze’s Espace Découverte, with its collection of 200 Armagnacs, a tasting area and shop. Another stop is highly recommended near Retjons, to discover the 13th century frescoes in its small Romanesque chapel, isolated in the middle of nature.

Roquefort