Cro-Magnon Shelter
Step back in time at the historic Cro-Magnon Shelter, a key site in understanding early human history in France's Vézère Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Cro-Magnon Shelter
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the historic Cro-Magnon Shelter, a key site in understanding early human history in France's Vézère Valley.
"Feel the ancient past come alive at this significant prehistoric site, a must-visit for history buffs."
Combine with Nearby Caves
Explore Font-de-Gaume cave for art and Abri de La Madeleine for more prehistoric insights.
Visit the National Museum
The National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies offers context to your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cro-Magnon Rock Shelter
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil
Explore the historic rock shelter where early human remains were discovered, offering a tangible link to our ancestors.
Prehistoric Discoveries
Cro-Magnon site
Imagine the lives of early humans as you stand where tools and ornaments were found, shedding light on ancient cultures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Cro-Magnon
Understanding the Site's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Nearby Caves
Explore Font-de-Gaume cave for art and Abri de La Madeleine for more prehistoric insights.
Visit the National Museum
The National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies offers context to your visit.
Cave Art Trip, Recommendations?
Consider an E-bike Ride
Rent an e-bike to explore Lascaux and the surrounding Vezere Valley. [^Review]
Respect the Site
Remember this is a historically significant location; tread lightly and observe respectfully.
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Nearby Caves
Explore Font-de-Gaume cave for art and Abri de La Madeleine for more prehistoric insights.
Visit the National Museum
The National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies offers context to your visit.
Consider an E-bike Ride
Rent an e-bike to explore Lascaux and the surrounding Vezere Valley. [^Review]
Respect the Site
Remember this is a historically significant location; tread lightly and observe respectfully.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cro-Magnon Shelter's historical significance and its connection to the broader Vézère Valley's prehistoric wonders. The surrounding area, particularly the hotel and its hosts, receives glowing reviews for exceptional service and hospitality. Some guests note the potential for slippery bathtubs in older accommodations.
"Wonderful, warm hosts who go above and beyond to make your stay extraordinary. They fed me well, did my very dirty camping laundry, and rented me an electric bike to ride up to Lascaux and back. (I highly recommend this ride, at least in the off-season: going up on the quiet route to the east of the Vezere and coming back through the small towns on the west side of the river.)"
Jessie Marshall
"We first stayed at the Cro Magnon about 45 years ago and once ate in its restaurant when it possessed aMicelin star.
It has been reimagined by a Belgian couple, and offers a lot for your money - including good service, excellent breakfasts, good dining and easy parking (at least in off-season). My only cavil is re lack of a grab bar in a deep and slippery bathtub."
Jim Reiss
"In a spur of the moment decision, we stopped at this cosy hotel because of the beautiful facade and luscious green plants. Stayed for a delicious iced drink and had a lovely chat with the owners. Wish we had one more week of vacation; we would have booked a room on the spot."
Stijn Vogels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cro-Magnon Shelter is located near Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil in the Vézère Valley. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended.
The site is generally well-marked, especially if you are exploring the prehistoric sites in the Les Eyzies area. It's often mentioned in conjunction with other significant caves and shelters in the region.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the Vézère Valley. Renting an electric bike is a great option for tackling the hills and covering more ground, including a ride to Lascaux. [^Review]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the immediate shelter area may be free or require a small fee, depending on current management. It's advisable to check local tourist information for the most up-to-date access details.
As a historical site, access might be year-round but potentially with limited hours. It's best to consult the official tourism website for Les Eyzies or the Vézère Valley for precise opening times.
While specific guided tours for the Cro-Magnon Shelter itself might be limited, many local tour operators in Les Eyzies offer comprehensive tours of the prehistoric sites in the Vézère Valley.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the rock overhang where early human remains were discovered and imagine the environment they inhabited. Artifacts found here contributed to understanding early Homo sapiens.
The site offers an educational experience for children, sparking their imagination about prehistoric life. However, supervision is recommended, and the focus is on historical significance rather than interactive exhibits.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely be walking on uneven terrain. Layers of clothing are also advisable, as cave environments can be cooler.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Generally, for open-air historical sites, personal photography is allowed, but always check for any posted restrictions.
Capture the scale of the rock overhang and the surrounding Vézère Valley landscape. Consider the historical context when framing your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with a trip to Lascaux IV, a fantastic replica of the original cave paintings, which is often a highlight for children. The Vézère Valley itself is beautiful for exploration, and renting e-bikes can make longer distances more manageable and fun for the whole family. [^Review]
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own picnics to enjoy amidst the scenic landscapes, rather than relying solely on restaurants. Staying in accommodations slightly outside the main tourist hubs of Les Eyzies can also offer more affordable options. The historical significance of sites like Cro-Magnon Shelter itself provides immense value without a high cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Discovery of Cro-Magnon
While the original site was partially damaged during its discovery, the findings were significant. The shelter provided crucial evidence of early human presence and lifestyle in the region. The artifacts and skeletal remains unearthed offered insights into the tools, ornaments, and physical characteristics of these ancient inhabitants.
Today, visiting the area allows you to connect with this history. While the exact shelter might be a point of historical interest rather than a fully preserved exhibition, its significance is undeniable. It's a cornerstone in the study of human evolution and prehistory in France.
Exploring the Vézère Valley's Prehistoric Heritage
Nearby, you can explore the famous Lascaux caves (though the original is closed, the replica Lascaux IV is a must-see), Font-de-Gaume with its stunning cave art, and the National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies. Each site provides a unique perspective on the lives of Paleolithic humans, from their art and tools to their burial practices.
Many visitors recommend renting an electric bike to navigate the valley, allowing you to cover more ground and enjoy the scenic routes between these incredible historical locations. This approach offers a more immersive and flexible way to experience the depth of prehistoric heritage. [^Review]
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