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Grotte de Font-de-Gaume, Limousin Travel Guide

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Explore original polychrome paintings at Grotte de Font-de-Gaume, a rare and stunning Paleolithic sanctuary in the Vézère Valley.

The Grotte de Font-de-Gaume, located near Les Eyzies in the Dordogne region of France, is one of the most significant Paleolithic sanctuaries in the world. This cave is renowned for its original polychrome paintings and engravings dating back approximately 17,000 years. It offers a rare glimpse into the artistic expression of early humans, featuring over 200 depictions of animals like bison, horses, mammoths, and reindeer.

A brief summary to Grotte de Font-de-Gaume

  • Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grotte de Font-de-Gaume.

  • Book tickets online well in advance, as the number of visitors per day is limited.
  • Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled tour for ticket verification.
  • Request an English-language tour when booking, if needed.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the cave to protect the paintings.
  • Be prepared for narrow passages and low light inside the cave; those with claustrophobia should take caution.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Les Eyzies, walk along Avenue du 8 Mai, continuing until you reach Avenue des Grottes. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and offers views of the surrounding landscape. The cave is located at 1-4 Av. des Grottes, 24620 Les Eyzies. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Les Eyzies from larger cities like Sarlat or Périgueux. From the Les Eyzies station, walk towards the village center, following signs to Avenue des Grottes, where the cave entrance is located. Train tickets from Périgueux to Les Eyzies cost approximately €7-€15.

  • Car

    From the D47 road, take the exit for Les Eyzies. Follow the signs for Grotte de Font-de-Gaume. The cave is located at 1-4 Av. des Grottes, 24620 Les Eyzies. Parking is available nearby, but spaces fill up quickly during peak season. Parking is free.

Discover more about Grotte de Font-de-Gaume

Nestled in the heart of the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume stands as a testament to the artistic capabilities of Magdalenian people. Discovered in 1901, it is one of the last caves with prehistoric polychrome paintings still open to the public. The cave contains over 200 paintings and engravings, showcasing the artistic and symbolic world of our ancestors.The polychrome paintings, created with natural pigments like ochre, depict a variety of animals with remarkable detail and skill. The most famous is a frieze of five bison discovered in 1966. Visitors can also observe horses, mammoths, reindeer, and stylized human figures. The cave's narrow passages and low light add to the immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a profound way.To protect the fragile cave environment and preserve the artwork, the number of daily visitors is strictly limited. Advance booking is essential, and tours are conducted in small groups. The tour guides provide valuable insights into the history, techniques, and significance of the paintings, enhancing the overall experience. Note that the cave is not accessible to people with motor disabilities.

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