Hi There: We're going to be in the Dordogne in a month and are planning to visit the Font De Gaume caves. We've emailed and called, but been able to get a response in regards to reservations. Has anyone visited these caves? Can we just arrive the day of? We'd hate to miss them-- I hear they are spectacular. Best,
Erin
Posted by
Portland
3643 posts
My Cadogan Guide for the Dordogne & the Lot says that you can get reservations (which it says are essential) by calling the Service de Reservation de la Grotte de Font-de-Gaume 05 53 06 86 00 or on the website, www.leseyzies.com/grottes-ornees. We have visited and loved it. Could the management of where you're staying help? I wouldn't chance just showing up unless all else fails. While you are in the area, you should also take a look at L'Abri du Cap Blanc, a limestone cliff carved, in relief, with a frieze of horses.
Posted by
columbus, nc
294 posts
You may be able to buy the day of. We did but it was in Oct. Can your hotel or wherever you are staying help?
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, CA
180 posts
They suggested we go the day of, 30 minutes before opening, but that doesn't fit very well into our itinerary, so if there is a way to reserve and pay in advance (which Rick says to do..) I'd love to do so! Thanks!
Posted by
Portland
3643 posts
Just out of curiosity I tried the website, and discovered that you are now given a new address, www.tourisme-vezere.com. Click on the British flag, and all will be explained in English. They do say that 30 same day tickets are sold each morning.
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, CA
180 posts
Thanks for your help. Unfortunately, that is the same email address/phone number that we have called and reached out to for weeks. I emailed our B&B and they suggested just on the day of to get tickets, but we'd love to get a reservation. I'm perplexed as to why no one will answer our emails/calls....and wondering if others have had the same issues?
Posted by
Langley, Wa, Usa
72 posts
Hi Erin, we are set for a reservation in Nov. This is the email of the woman who writes back in English and has been easy to deal with. You will be required to pay by CC at least 15 days before your reservation. We used a CC and emailed our CC account number and expiration date in 3 separate emails to prevent fraud. No problem. Good luck. [email protected]
Posted by
Ipswich, MA, US
87 posts
This is a truly wonderful place. We visited in July. It completely changed my perceptions about prehistoric "savage" humans. Advance reservations are required unless you really enjoy uncertainty. They only permit 120 visitors a day in the cave.
Posted by
Divide, Colorado, USA
83 posts
We bought ours the day of our tour and yes, they are spectacjlar.
Posted by
Divide, Colorado, USA
83 posts
We bought ours the day of our tour and yes, they are spectacjlar.