In the heart of the Quercy, Pech Merle preserves spotted horses and negative handprints that are 25,000 years old. This route adds the Cougnac cave and the gentle charm of the perched villages of the Lot. It covers about 55 km and suits April to October.
Day 1
Morning: Pech Merle
The cave of Pech Merle and its famous spotted horses, negative handprints and fossilised footprints. Next: 5 minutes on foot to the museum.
Afternoon: the Cabrerets prehistory centre
The prehistory centre at Cabrerets extends the visit with cave art, a film and Palaeolithic objects. Next: 45 minutes by car to Cougnac.
Day 2
Morning: Cougnac cave
Two caves in one: spectacular rock formations and painted figures (mammoths, ibex) from the Palaeolithic. Next: 40 minutes by car to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.
Afternoon: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
A gentle finish in one of the most beautiful villages in France, perched above the Lot.
Good to know
Pech Merle limits the number of visitors per day, so booking is strongly advised. Cabrerets and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie make fine stops. The caves are cool (13 °C): bring a light sweater. To compare other decorated caves, see our guide to the painted caves to visit in France.
Practical information was checked in October 2026: please confirm opening times and book on the official website before your visit.