In 1994 a group of cave explorers stumbled across the find of a lifetime - A cave system blocked off from the outside world for more than 29,000 years, preserving an abundance of early cave paintings. The find would be recognised as the oldest known in existence and designated a UNESCO protected site. Placed under high security. Chauvet 1, as it is became known, was a treasure trove for scientists, who realised it's unique gift.
What the French government did next is nearly unbelievable. They set about accurately recreating the cave in a new site close to the original, using a mix of the very lastest technology, highly trained specialists, and authentic cave painting techniques, in a project that would take years. The only allowances were redesigning the layout to fit a round auditorium, with ample headroom and accessibility for wheel chair users. So in effect what you are visiting is a 1 to 1 recreation as near to the original as possible. Not that you would know it entering the dark atmospheric cave, air conditioned of course to recreate a hint of the original’s temperature, but without turning your lips blue.
Chauvet 2 is actually four attractions in one. The main attraction is of course the large circular building set deep in a large spacious park which houses the cave, while a prehistoric tented village and a prehistoric life gallery are situated along the way from the entrance.
Not to forget the children's art studio, where the young ones can try out authentic cave painting, or the mini theatre. And then there is a very impressive 360 degree 3D art installation, showing various animals and taking you back in time and down into the cave.
The camp was particular interesting with an excellent tour guide who directs you through the different scenes, challenging you to find "trick" items that weren’t around during the period. Amusing indeed.
A cafe is located next to the cave, with great crepes and grenadine sirup at reasonable prices, while a small refreshment stand is opposite the entrance. The gift-shop is well stocked with toys, books and relevant products. Toilets are conveniently located around the site.
Access to the cave is with a guide only and in French. However, English tours are available at special times and audio sets are also available in other languages. The tour takes about an hour, with very knowledgable guides, explaining the discovery, history, animals, inhabitants, and cave painting techniques, etc. and quite frankly it zipped by. By the way, taking photos inside the cave itself is forbidden but a selection are available for download on the website.
Prices are very reasonable for what Chauvet 2 offers. Under tens are free, 9.00€ for 10-17 years and adults 18.00€. Check the website for the latest prices and opening times.
Top tip, prebook on the website to secure your places on the English group. Also bring snacks and drinking water in summer, as the park is ideal for a picnic break.
Access to the museum is by car or coach as it is set deep in the Ardèche mountains, near the Valon Pont D'Arc natural arch over the river, favoured by holidaymakers. Located close to the original, its about one hours drive from Privas, along past Messe and Montélimar. All in all a great family day out, and one to treasure.
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Olivier C Dorrell is the author of British Officer’s Peak Caps of the Second World War (Schiffer Books, 2014) and is the Webmaster of the Worcestershire Militaria Museum, virtual museum. He is interested in art and history, military history in particular, and is a keen visitor and supporter of museums and the unique experiences they offer.