With its many medieval sites and monuments, it’s easy to feel as though you’re stepping back in time as you explore the Périgord. About twenty kilometers from Sarlat, a small village tells an even older story. Nestled between limestone cliffs, a river, and lush green landscapes, Les Eyzies is home to exceptional prehistoric sites. Follow the paths of prehistory in the heart of nature for an extraordinary getaway.
Les Eyzies, a village nestled between the river and the cliffs
Exploring Les Eyzies is like traveling through the ages. Its cliffs bear direct witness to prehistory, while its narrow streets reveal a few remnants of the Middle Ages. Meanwhile, the Vézère River flows peacefully on its course.
The limestone cliffs, the true stars of the show, line the village and give it its unique character. Everywhere you look, they seem to lean toward visitors, whispering tales of the past. A stroll through the village reveals a rich heritage, includingthe Church of Saint-Martin de Tayac and the cuisine of the Périgord region. Finally, the river winds through the landscape, adding a pleasant touch of freshness to the scene.
A journey to the origins of humanity
Nicknamed the “world capital of prehistory,” Les Eyzies is a true invitation to journey back thousands of years. With caves, rock shelters, and spectacular landscapes, the valley is home to an exceptional concentration of prehistoric sites.
Human presence here has been documented for over 400,000 years. It was also here that the first remains of Cro-Magnon man were discovered in 1868. To get started, head to the National Museum of Prehistory. Among the must-see sites, the Font-de-Gaume Cave is one of the last major decorated sanctuaries still open to the public in France. Nearby, the Combarelles Cave offers a different perspective on cave art. Another iconic site is the Cro-Magnon Shelter, associated with the discovery of the famous human remains in 1868. Finally, for a change of scenery, head to the Grand Roc Cave with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
On a different note, and to continue your journey through time, the Château de Commarque offers a surprising blend of medieval heritage and prehistoric remains.
Canoeing on the Vézère
Bordered by the Vézère River, Les Eyzies is an ideal starting point for a peaceful stroll along the water’s edge. For the more active, several hiking trails offer the chance to climb higher up. These trails offer beautiful views of the village, the river, and the landscapes of the Périgord Noir. On foot, you’ll discover a wilder side of Les Eyzies, far from the main tourist sites.
Another particularly enjoyable option on sunny days: canoeing on the Vézère. From the river, the views change completely. The cliffs rise above the water, and certain historic sites are revealed from a different angle.
