Dordogne and Vézère

Before you go

• UNESCO inscribed the Vézère Valley in 1979 with 147 prehistoric sites and 25 decorated caves. Daily access to the caves is limited.
• Lascaux IV, the full-size replica near Montignac, requires a reservation in summer and at peak times. The visit takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Camping on public roads, paths and squares is not allowed in France. Local bans can apply, so use campsites and check municipal rules.

Planning

The Vézère Valley lies in the Dordogne département in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, centred on Les Eyzies, called the capital of prehistory. UNESCO lists 147 prehistoric sites and 25 decorated caves. Lascaux was discovered in 1940 and closed to the public in 1963. Lascaux II opened in 1983 and Lascaux IV in 2016 as a facsimile. Daily access to the caves is limited, so book ahead and check each site's official page.

Camping

In France, camping is not allowed on public roads, paths and squares, on beaches, in nature reserves and, according to camping guides, within about 500 m of monuments. Mayors and prefectures can issue local bans, which must be signposted. Use campsites, including municipal ones, or signed aires. Before staying overnight near the sites, ask the municipality or tourist office.

Getting around

Lascaux IV sits on a hillside above Montignac and has on-site parking. The valley also suits cycling: one route links Lascaux IV with Font-de-Gaume over about 60 km. Check height and width signs on narrow valley roads and in village centres, and use the official information on each cave's visit conditions.

FAQs