Some 36,000 years ago, artists at Chauvet painted lions and rhinoceroses with unmatched virtuosity. This weekend combines the full replica of the cave, the prehistory city of Orgnac and the beauty of the Ardèche gorges. It covers about 60 km and suits April to October.
Day 1
Morning: Chauvet 2
The full replica of the Chauvet cave, Chauvet 2: lions, rhinoceroses and horses painted 36,000 years ago, restored identically. Next: 10 minutes by car to Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.
Lunch in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
A break on the banks of the Ardèche, the gateway to the gorges. Next: 20 minutes by car to Orgnac.
Afternoon: Orgnac
The Orgnac aven and its prehistory city: a large cave with rock formations and an interactive museum, ideal after Chauvet.
Day 2
Morning: the Pont d'Arc and the gorges
A walk (or a canoe trip) beneath the natural arch of the Pont d'Arc, in spectacular surroundings. Next: 35 minutes by car to Rousson.
Afternoon: Préhistorama, Rousson
The Préhistorama in Rousson tells the story of the evolution of life and of humankind through life-size reconstructions.
Good to know
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc has most of the accommodation and restaurants. Wear good shoes for the viewpoints over the Pont d'Arc. If painted caves are the focus of your trip, our guide to the painted caves to visit in France helps you compare, and the Lascaux page covers the other great replica.
Practical information was checked in October 2026: please confirm opening times and book on the official website before your visit.