Visit the Lascaux cave during your camping holiday
A historical discovery
The prehistoric cave of Lascaux was discovered in 1940 by four teenagers walking in the woods. At the time, they could not have imagined that they were making one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.
Remarkable cave paintings
Remarkably well preserved for its 17,000 years of age, the cave reveals a fascinating prehistoric world, where yellow horses, red cows, deer and black bulls seem to leap off the walls. Among these exceptional works are the Well scene, the Deer frieze, the Black Cow panels and many other wonders, testifying to the artistic talent and sensitivity of Palaeolithic man. These masterpieces are part of our history and can also be admired at the Centre d'Art Préhistorique du Thot in Thonac, which perfectly complements a visit to Lascaux.
The closure of the original cave
By 1955, Lascaux was beginning to fall victim to its own success: with 1,200 tourists a day, the motifs were deteriorating due to the CO² emitted by visitors. Moss and algae were growing on the walls. The original cave was therefore closed to the public in 1963 in order to preserve it.
Lascaux II: a faithful replica
The cave we visit today is a lifelike replica located 200 metres from the original site, which was inaugurated in 1983. Lascaux II allows visitors to discover the Hall of the Bulls and the Axial Gallery, reproduced down to the last millimetre. The colours and reliefs have been faithfully recreated, offering an immersive experience without any risk to the historic site.
Lascaux III: the travelling cave
Lascaux III, or "Lascaux on the move", allows visitors to discover a selection of panels reproduced in temporary exhibitions around the world. This travelling format offers an educational experience that is accessible to a wider audience, even far from the Dordogne.
Lascaux IV: the cave and its international centre
Lascaux IV, inaugurated in 2016, combines a complete replica with an international centre for cave art. This tour offers immersive technologies, films, workshops and interactive exhibitions to help visitors understand the lives of prehistoric humans and their painting techniques. It is a complete experience that will appeal to young and old alike.
Which campsite should you choose to visit the Lascaux caves?
In order to discover the cave in the best conditions during your camping holiday in the Dordogne, we have selected for you a few campsites around the cave of Lascaux II.
We particularly recommend the following campsites, located between 9 and 15 km from the famous cave:
- Lascaux Vacances**** in Saint-Amand de Coly – ideal for a family holiday close to prehistoric sites.
- La Bouquerie – Les Truffières de Dordogne***** in Saint-Geniès – a quiet campsite surrounded by nature, perfect for foodies and truffle lovers.
- Le Paradis***** in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère – a charming campsite by the river, close to medieval villages.
- Les Peneyrals***** in Saint-Crépins offers a green setting and activities for the whole family, just a few kilometres from Lascaux.
Visiting Lascaux II: opening hours, prices and practical information
The Lascaux II cave is open from 4 April to 1 November.
Opening hours: from 4 April to 11 July: 9.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm, 12 July to 21 August: 9am to 7pm, 22 August to 1 November: 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm.
2026 prices: Adults (and children over 12): €16, children (5 to 12): €10.50. Free for children under 5.
We strongly recommend booking your ticket online, especially during the summer, to guarantee your visit time.
Combined tickets with another site (Parc du Thot, Lascaux IV) are available.
Contact details:
Lascaux II Cave
488 chemin de la Grotte – 24290 Montignac
Tel. +33 (0)5 53 51 95 03
Website: lascaux-ii.fr