(Published September 2013, last updated April 2024)
Until the middle of the fifteenth century, life in this part of the world—between Collonges-la-Rouge and Curemonte—centred around the village of la Combe. But by 1453, at the end of the Hundred Years War, the village had been destroyed and the residents moved to nearby Curemonte.
All that remains today of the village of la Combe is the tiny church dedicated to Saint-Hilaire.
The church dates from the eleventh century and was partially reconstructed in the fifteenth century. The two sides of the church are very different in all respects—size, shape and the details in the carvings—but both are very beautiful and exude a great sense of history.
The church is open to the public during exhibitions held over the summer months but remains locked at other times of the year. Luckily, we can peer in through the windows where the dim light only adds to the sense of charm and mystery.
Let’s take a closer look…
Saint-Hilaire de la Combe – the original eleventh-century chapel on the right and fifteenth-century extension on the left
Eleventh-century carvings under the eaves
Carvings under the eaves added in the fifteenth century
FAST FACTS
Which long-distance walk in France visits Saint-Hilaire de la Combe?
Martel to Rocamadour
Where is Saint-Hilaire de la Combe, France? Find it on Google maps
Saint-Hilaire de la Combe is located between Collonges-la-Rouge and Curemonte. To reach the church, leave the GR 480 walking path just past Branceilles (approximately 14 kilometres/8.5 miles past Collonges-la-Rouge) and veer right onto the D106. The church is a short way along on your left. When you are ready, continue walking along the D106 to reach the next village of Curemonte.
Guided visits of l’Église Saint-Hilaire de la Combe are sometimes offered by the Dordogne Tourist Office. You’ll find details of any upcoming tours at the link.
In addition to visiting historic chapels and fortified castles, the walk from Martel to Rocamadour passes through nine of France’s most beautiful villages – Martel, Turenne, Collonges-la-Rouge, Curemonte, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Autoire, Loubressac, Carennac and Rocamadour.
If you are following my suggested itinerary for this eight-day walk, you’ll arrive at Saint-Hilaire de la Combe late in the morning on the third day of the walk.
If you prefer to set your own agenda, I share the steps I take to plan my itinerary on any long-distance walk (using the Chemin de Stevenson as a case study).
There is no accommodation, or anything else for that matter, in Saint-Hilaire de la Combe, but you’ll find both in the Curemonte, 1.5 kilometres (one mile) further along the D106.
Practical tips for long-distance walking—preparation, packing and avoiding blisters
Purchase the 2024 edition of the Martel to Rocamadour (PDF) guidebook
Beautiful! I love the old, medieval or ancient towns and villages where by strolling down their streets you can literally go back in time and admire how talented people were to be able to make those buildings and decorations only using their hands. Great photos!
Thanks Tom. They are amazing buildings. I love to sit inside them when I can and imagine how many thousands of people have lent against those same walls over the centuries!