Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, Administrative commune in southern Ardèche, France.
Description
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is a commune in southern Ardèche, situated at the entrance of the Ardèche Gorges and defined by a natural limestone arch. This arch spans the river below, standing approximately 54 meters high and dominating the landscape.
History
The region contains the Chauvet Cave, discovered in 1994 and holding more than 1,000 prehistoric paintings. These artworks date back approximately 36,000 years and stand among the oldest records of human creativity.
Culture
The town hall, housed in a 17th-century château, displays tapestries from the 18th century that visitors can see during guided tours. These interior spaces tell stories about how the region lived and developed over several centuries.
Practical
Visitors can access two weekly markets: a night market every Tuesday during summer and a traditional morning market each Thursday throughout the year. These regular gatherings offer good opportunities to discover local products and the rhythm of the village.
Did you know?
Chauvet Cave 2 is an exact replica of the original cave that allows visitors to experience prehistoric art through advanced technological reproductions. This modern interpretation makes the ancient works accessible without putting the originals at risk.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Ardèche).
France displays a range of geological formations shaped by millions of years of natural processes. White chalk cliffs mark the northern coast, including the cliffs of Étretat and the rock of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy. In southern regions, deep limestone gorges cut through the landscape, while...
Chauvet Cave
2.7 km
Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche
2.7 km
Pont d'Arc
3.3 km
Grotte des Huguenots
2.5 km
Grotte du Déroc
2.2 km
Town hall of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
113 m
Grotte d'Ebbou
4.4 km
Grotte du Colombier
5.1 km
Grotte de la Vacheresse
2.7 kmGrotte de Mézelet
1.9 kmSite médiéval de Salavas
2 km
La Caverne du Pont d'Arc
2.6 kmGrotte de Cayre Creyt
2.6 km
Église Saint-Saturnin de Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
137 m
Église Saint-Julien de Salavas
1.9 km
Temple de Salavas
1.9 km
Temple de Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
87 mSommet de Sigaud
2.7 kmGrotte de la Cabre
5.9 kmGrotte du Bouchon
4.1 kmGrotte de la Bergerie de Charmasson
2.7 kmGrotte du Planchard
2.7 kmGrotte des Potiers de Gaud
6.6 kmScenic viewpoint
2.7 kmScenic viewpoint
6.6 kmScenic viewpoint
1.9 kmScenic viewpoint
4.5 kmReal people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes