Caverne du Pont-d'Arc: experience the Aurignacian cave paintings from a Palaeolithic world inspired by Chauvet. 

The Caverne du Pont-d'Arc will open its doors at the end of this month - 25th April 2015. The official website provides all the information you will need to plan your visit to the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc in the Ardeche Gorges of South-Eastern France, for what promises to be a spectacular experience. 

In the midst of the stalagmites, stalactites and other outlandish concretions, the Cave unfurls its treasure of engravings and paintings in a space covering over 3,000 square metres, or 70 acres. The whole project has cost the French authorities something in the region of 55 million Euros, demonstrating the care and attention to detail, not to mention the scientific accuracy, lavished on the Chauvet replicated experience. 

Your visit will follow the twists and turns of the cave's morphology, via a footbridge, with 10 rest and observation stations, with guides and optional audio guides. Your senses will be awakened: the coolness, humidity, silence, and darkness, reflecting the physical conditions of the original cave. 

After exploring the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc, visitors can continue into the permanent exhibition in the Discovery Centre, presenting the Aurignacians and the Palaeolithic people, their environment, their myths, and above all, their cave painting. 

The official website gives details on location and access, opening hours and admission fees, and contact and reservation information:

Visit the Chauvet section:

http://www.bradshawfoundation.com/chauvet/index.php

From April 25, the Caverne du Pont d'Arc will be open 365 days a year. To avoid waiting, book ahead. Adults 13 Euros; 10 to 17-year-olds 6.50 Euros; under-10s free.

http://en.cavernedupontdarc.fr/discover-the-pont-darc-cavern/

Image: Getty