Discover the Ancient Wonders of Chauvet Cave

Explore the stunning Chauvet Cave, home to ancient masterpieces of prehistoric art and breathtaking geological formations in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, France.

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Ardèche Gorges
Chauvet Cave

Nestled in the scenic Vallon-Pont-d'Arc region of France, Chauvet Cave is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases some of the oldest and most remarkable prehistoric art. This hidden gem draws tourists eager to explore its stunning rock formations and exquisite cave paintings, which date back to the Upper Paleolithic era. The cave's intricate depictions of animals and human figures provide an incredible glimpse into the lives of our ancient ancestors, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

A brief summary to Chauvet Cave

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, FR

Local tips

Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the cave may involve walking on uneven surfaces.
Consider joining a guided tour for a more enriching experience with insights into the cave's history and art.
Check the cave's opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
Bring a light jacket, as the cave maintains a cool temperature year-round.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car, head to Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. From the center of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, follow signs for the D4 road towards the Chauvet Cave. The cave is approximately 10 minutes away by car. You will see signs for 'Grotte Chauvet' along the route. There is parking available at the cave entrance, but note that there may be a parking fee. Ensure you check for any specific parking regulations.
Public Transportation

For those using public transportation, take a bus from the nearest major town (such as Aubenas or Vallon-Pont-d'Arc) to the Chauvet Cave. Check the local bus schedules as they may vary. Upon arrival at the bus stop, follow the signs to the cave entrance, which is about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Be aware that the bus service may not run frequently, so plan your visit accordingly.
Guided Tours

Consider booking a guided tour from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, which often includes transportation to Chauvet Cave. These tours typically include an expert guide who can provide insights about the cave's history and significance. Prices for these tours may vary, so check in advance and book your spot early, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Discover more about Chauvet Cave

Chauvet Cave, located near Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, France, is a mesmerizing testament to the artistic prowess of our prehistoric ancestors. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its remarkable cave paintings, which are among the oldest in the world, dating back over 30,000 years. As you step into this ancient sanctuary, you'll find yourself surrounded by vivid representations of animals such as horses, lions, and rhinoceroses, all skillfully etched into the cave walls. The artistry and detail of these images offer a rare window into the lives, beliefs, and environment of the early humans who inhabited this region. The cave's unique geology adds to its allure, with stunning rock formations that have been shaped over millennia. Visitors can appreciate the interplay of light and shadow within the cave, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that enhances the experience. While direct access to the original cave is restricted to preserve its delicate ecosystem, an impressive replica known as the Caverne du Pont d'Arc allows tourists to experience the beauty and significance of Chauvet without compromising the integrity of the original site. Exploring Chauvet Cave is not just a journey into the past; it is also an opportunity to reflect on humanity's artistic expression and connection to nature. With guided tours that provide valuable insights into the cave's history and geological features, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistic achievements of our ancestors. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique adventure, Chauvet Cave promises an unforgettable experience steeped in the mysteries of time.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

L’oustaou sous les Oliviers

0.6 km

Discover the charm of L'Oustaou sous les Oliviers, a unique blend of rustic cabins and historical significance in the heart of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

Descent of the Ardèche

1.3 km

Explore the stunning gorges of the Ardèche River through an unforgettable canoe and kayak descent, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Aven d'Orgnac Grand site de France, Cité de la Préhistoire

7.6 km

Explore Aven d'Orgnac Grand Site de France, where prehistoric wonders and ancient civilizations await in the heart of France's Ardèche region.

Aven d'Orgnac Grand site de France, Cité de la Préhistoire

Maison Unal

14.1 km

Discover the artistic haven of Maison Unal in Labeaume, where creativity and culture thrive amidst stunning landscapes.

Château le Cheylard Aujac

31.2 km

Discover the stunning Château le Cheylard Aujac, a historical gem in Aujac, France, perfect for history lovers and scenic explorations.

Portes Castle

33.6 km

Explore the historic Portes Castle, a stunning architectural marvel in southern France, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Les Côtes du Rhône

37.8 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and exquisite wines of Les Côtes du Rhône, a gem in France's iconic wine country.

Visit The French Riviera

41.5 km

Explore the stunning French Riviera, a blend of breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious experiences that promise unforgettable adventures.

Caves of Trabuc

47.8 km

Explore the breathtaking Caves of Trabuc in Mialet, France—an underground wonderland of stunning formations and rich history.

400 Rte du Pont du Gard

49.3 km

Visit the iconic Pont du Gard, an architectural marvel of ancient Rome, and immerse yourself in history amidst stunning natural beauty.

La Loire

49.7 km

Experience the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of La Loire, France's longest river, where nature and history intertwine beautifully.

Pont du Gard

49.8 km

Discover the breathtaking Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Roman engineering in southern France.

Mémorial des Sapeurs-pompiers de Loriol

50.7 km

Explore the Mémoire des Sapeurs-pompiers de Loriol, a poignant memorial honoring the bravery and sacrifices of firefighters in a serene setting.

Castle of Tornac

51.3 km

Explore the Castle of Tornac, a stunning medieval fortress surrounded by beautiful hiking trails and rich history, ideal for culture and nature lovers.

Séguret

52.4 km

Explore the charming hilltop village of Séguret, a hidden gem in Provence known for its stunning views, rich history, and delightful wine experiences.

Unmissable attractions to see

Le Pont d'Arc

0.6 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Le Pont d'Arc, a natural arch and historical landmark in the heart of the Ardèche region, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Belvédère du Pont d'Arc

0.7 km

Experience breathtaking views of the Pont d'Arc from the Belvédère du Pont d'Arc, a must-visit observation deck in the heart of the Ardèche region.

Rapide des Blachas

0.8 km

Discover the natural beauty of Rapide des Blachas, a thrilling spot for adventure and relaxation in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, France.

canyon de l'Ardèche

1.6 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canyon de l'Ardèche, a natural wonder in southern France perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Belvédère de Vallon Pont d'Arc

2.0 km

Discover breathtaking views of the Ardèche River from the Belvédère de Vallon Pont d'Arc, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers in France.

Base Nautique de La Petite Mer

2.0 km

Experience the beauty of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc with thrilling canoe and kayak rentals at Base Nautique de La Petite Mer, your gateway to adventure in nature.

La Terrasse

2.3 km

Discover La Terrasse in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, where exquisite local cuisine meets stunning views in a charming setting.

Col du Serre de Tourre

2.3 km

Experience the breathtaking views and serene tranquility of Col du Serre de Tourre, a hidden gem in the French countryside perfect for nature lovers.

Belvédère du Serre de Tourre

2.3 km

Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at Belvédère du Serre de Tourre, a must-visit observation deck in Saint-Remèze, France.

Rapide de la Fare

2.4 km

Explore Rapide de la Fare, a stunning natural wonder in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, where adventure and breathtaking scenery await every traveler.

Grotte chauvet 2 - Ardèche

2.4 km

Explore the stunning Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient cave art and prehistoric culture in a breathtaking setting.

Moulin de Tiourre

2.7 km

Explore the natural wonders of Moulin de Tiourre, a hiker's haven in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, offering stunning landscapes and serene trails.

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

2.8 km

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, a gem in the Ardèche region of France, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche

3.3 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in southern France.

Point De Vue sur Les Gorges de l'Ardèche

3.8 km

Discover the stunning vistas of the Ardèche Gorges from the famous Point De Vue sur Les Gorges de l'Ardèche, a must-see for nature lovers.

Essential places to dine

Auberge du Pont d'Arc

0.5 km

Discover authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Pont d'Arc in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Restaurant La Grotte Des Tunnels

0.7 km

Experience exquisite barbecue and authentic French cuisine at Restaurant La Grotte Des Tunnels in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - A culinary delight amidst stunning landscapes.

Restaurant l'Embarcadère des Gorges

0.9 km

Experience exquisite dining at Restaurant l'Embarcadère des Gorges in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc with gourmet burgers, pizzas & stunning gorge views.

Restaurant Le Belvédère

1.0 km

Experience authentic French cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurant Le Belvédère in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

Le Resto du Village

1.4 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Resto du Village in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, where every dish tells a story and every meal is an adventure.

Restaurant Les Trois Eaux

1.4 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Les Trois Eaux in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc amidst breathtaking scenery.

Le Restaurant Bar à Vin de Chames

1.4 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine and fine wines at Le Restaurant Bar à Vin de Chames in beautiful Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

Le cabanon de Chames

1.5 km

Discover fast food delights at Le Cabanon de Chames in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc – where local flavors meet casual dining!

Restaurant Le Clos des Bruyères

2.3 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Le Clos des Bruyères in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - where every dish tells a story.

Bistrot Cayou

2.7 km

Discover the authentic flavors of France at Bistrot Cayou in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc – where every meal is a celebration.

Hôtel Berneron 3 étoiles

2.7 km

Experience authentic French hospitality at Hôtel Berneron in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - your perfect base for exploring Ardeche's natural wonders.

Le 14

2.7 km

Experience the best of French gastronomy at Le 14 in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - where exquisite flavors meet warm hospitality.

Le Petit Jardin

2.8 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Jardin in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - a culinary journey filled with local flavors and charm.

Restaurant Chez Léon

2.8 km

Discover authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Chez Léon in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc – where every dish tells a story.

Sur le pouce

2.8 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Sur le pouce in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - a delightful stop for every traveler.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Le concept store

Explore Vallon Boutik in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc for top-notch fishing gear and unique local gifts, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and souvenir collectors.

Discover the heart of Ruoms at Le Saint Louis, a cozy bar offering local drinks and a friendly atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Discover the Ancient Wonders of Chauvet Cave

A brief summary to Chauvet Cave

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Guided Tours

Unlock the Best of Chauvet Cave

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Chauvet Cave

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

L’oustaou sous les Oliviers

Descent of the Ardèche

Aven d'Orgnac Grand site de France, Cité de la Préhistoire

Maison Unal

Château le Cheylard Aujac

Portes Castle

Les Côtes du Rhône

Visit The French Riviera

Caves of Trabuc

400 Rte du Pont du Gard

La Loire

Pont du Gard

Mémorial des Sapeurs-pompiers de Loriol

Castle of Tornac

Séguret

Unmissable attractions to see

Le Pont d'Arc

Belvédère du Pont d'Arc

Rapide des Blachas

canyon de l'Ardèche

Belvédère de Vallon Pont d'Arc

Base Nautique de La Petite Mer

La Terrasse

Col du Serre de Tourre

Belvédère du Serre de Tourre

Rapide de la Fare

Grotte chauvet 2 - Ardèche

Moulin de Tiourre

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche

Point De Vue sur Les Gorges de l'Ardèche

Essential places to dine

Auberge du Pont d'Arc

Restaurant La Grotte Des Tunnels

Restaurant l'Embarcadère des Gorges

Restaurant Le Belvédère

Le Resto du Village

Restaurant Les Trois Eaux

Le Restaurant Bar à Vin de Chames

Le cabanon de Chames

Restaurant Le Clos des Bruyères

Bistrot Cayou

Hôtel Berneron 3 étoiles

Le 14

Le Petit Jardin

Restaurant Chez Léon

Sur le pouce

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Le concept store

La Boutique De Deux

Nougaterie Pont d'Arc

Les douceurs de Marie

Born To Travel

ARCO D'IRIS

Cielarka

La vie est Belle EJN

La Boutique

One More Time

Lou et Compagnie

Village d'artisans d'art de vallon pont d'Arc.

Au Pays des Ânes

Cocoon Vallon 9 avenue Jean Jaurès 07150 Vallon pont d'Arc et le 9 Avenue Jean Jaurès

Vallon Boutik

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Lézard café et mini golf du Chastelas

Bar Le Chastelas

Tom Pouce Cafe