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Cairn - Prehistory Center: Journey to the Neolithic

Explore Neolithic life at Cairn Prehistory Center in Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt: interactive exhibits, workshops, and megalithic wonders await!

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Step back 5,000 years at the Cairn Prehistory Center in Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt, a living museum dedicated to the megalithic era. Explore interactive exhibits, participate in prehistoric workshops, and discover the secrets of our ancestors in this fun and educational park.

A brief summary to Cairn - Prehistory Center

  • Monday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the center's schedule for special events, workshops, and demonstrations, especially during the summer months and school holidays.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully experience both the indoor exhibits and the outdoor park activities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain in the outdoor park.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic area, or grab a snack at the on-site ice cream parlor during the summer.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Les Sables-d'Olonne, take the D949 south for approximately 20 km. Upon arriving in Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt, follow signs for the Préhisto'Site du Cairn. There is free parking available for visitors. Note that parking may be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    From Les Sables-d'Olonne, take a regional bus towards Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Once in Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the Cairn Prehistory Center. Bus fare is approximately €2-3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in the surrounding areas. A taxi ride from Les Sables-d'Olonne to Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt will cost approximately €30-€40. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Cairn - Prehistory Center

The Cairn Prehistory Center, or Préhisto'Site du Cairn, offers an immersive experience into the lives of Neolithic people in the Vendée region of France. Located in Saint-Hilaire-la-Forêt, about 20 km south of Les Sables d'Olonne, the center welcomes visitors to explore the fascinating world of megaliths and early human settlements. The center features both indoor and outdoor attractions. Inside, three interactive exhibition rooms showcase various aspects of prehistoric life, including megalith construction, the daily routines of early farmers, and the relationship between humans and the sea in prehistoric times. Exhibits include a 3D film, touch screens, and a collection of over 90 objects related to Neanderthals. Outside, a 2.5-hectare park provides a hands-on experience of the Neolithic era. Visitors can explore reconstructions of Neolithic houses and dolmens, participate in archaeological digs, and learn about ancient plants and recipes. The park also offers a range of engaging workshops and demonstrations, including fire-making, hunting techniques, pottery, and jewelry making. Families can work together to move a menhir, try their hand at prehistoric art, or simply wander through the recreated prehistoric landscapes. The Cairn Prehistory Center is more than just a museum; it's a place where visitors of all ages can connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the people who lived in this region thousands of years ago.

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