We are interested in seeing the ancient cave paintings while on our trip (July 15-18) in the area (we are staying in Sarlat-la-Caneda). Checking out the website I can see that Lascaux has a variety of attractions and ticketing options. Aside from the cave (replica) are the other sites within the Lascaux complex interesting? Would you recommend a different (or additional) cave? I have been told to purchase this well in advance of our trip, but I can't tell from the website if and how many of these attractions we can do in a day or two.
Thanks!
Posted by
Chicago
8554 posts
I would not visit the area without seeing a 'real' cave in addition to the excellent replica. The Font du Gaume is the gold standard but I am sure all reservations for the year are probably done by now. You can line up early on the day you want to visit to get one of the 50 or 60 tickets allocated for the day. Another real cave is that doesn't work out is Roffignac which we really enjoyed. The art is not of the caliber of Lascaux but it is the real deal. Font du Gaume is artistically stunning although of course because it was subjected to weather over the millennia, the polychromes look pretty much like black on black now. Still you feel you are in the presence of greatness.
Posted by
Portland
3643 posts
Take a look at l"Abri du Cap Blanc. It's not a cave, but a long relief carving into a limestone cliff (now enclosed). It will only take half an hour or so, and you'll see another dimension to the achievement of pre-historic artists. When we visited quite a few years ago, there was no need for reservations. Might be different now.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thanks very much for your suggestions!
Posted by
Columbus, USA
396 posts
We really enjoyed Peche Merle. It's a large cave with considerable art and not a replica. I think it's about an hour from Sarlat (more accurately Via Michelin says 90 minutes) and slightly off the beaten path. We visited while driving on our way from Provence to Sarlat so it wasn't such a hit on our schedule. You would need a car. The tour groups are not large or frequent, so I think advanced reservations would be smart. There is a lot of explanation about what you're seeing and sometimes the guide needs to point out a special feature in order for you to notice it, so an English tour is a good idea. I think my family found Peche Merle more memorable than Lascaux.
Posted by
Columbus, USA
396 posts
I've been keeping my eye on this cave for a future visit:
http://en.cavernedupontdarc.fr/book-your-tickets/
It's somewhat north of Avignon. If you happen to be in Avignon/Provence area perhaps if would be of interest.
Posted by
Chicago
8554 posts
I have been to the replica of the Chauvet cave i.e. Caverne du Pont d'Arc. The area is just stunningly beautiful and you can see the real cave opening from the Pont d'Arc. In warm weather you can canoe under the Arc and the river is placid and full of people having fun (I had my arm in a cast and so couldn't go near the water and was so sad) The replica cave is terrific. I have seen the movie 'Cave of Forgotten Dreams' shot in 3D in the actual cave which was discovered only a few years ago (1994) has stunning art. The replica is terrific and is very easy to move through with the guide. It is difficult to get to the area but well worth the trip and the gorge of the Arc river is so very beautiful.
I personally thought Peche Merl was much less interesting than the others although it is a beautiful cave filled with interesting natural formations. With the exception of the spotted horses, the art is scarce and what is there not that interesting IMHO. But I love these things and would like to see them all.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Great info! Thanks so much.