This extraordinary series of caves contains the only original Cro-Magnon polychrome (as opposed to single-color) paintings still open to the public. Dating back about 14,000 years ago, the more than 200 delicately engraved painted figures include bison, reindeer, horses and mammoths, though only about 25 are included in the 45-minute torch-lamp tours. Departures in English are usually at 11.15am (maybe 4pm too).
Font de Gaume is such a rare and valuable site that there is always talk of closing it for its own protection. Visitor numbers are limited to 78 per day. Unless you come out of season, you must line up very early to get a ticket (only one per person).
The ticket office and cave are 1km east of Les Eyzies on the D4.
