Journey Through Time – Discover the Grottes de Cougnac

Just 10 minutes from Camping Le Séquoia in Payrac, perfectly situated between Sarlat and Rocamadour, lies one of France’s most captivating underground treasures: the Grottes de Cougnac.

Nestled near the village of Payrignac, close to Gourdon, these twin caves combine breathtaking natural formations with Paleolithic art, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step back more than 30,000 years in time.

Two Caves, Two Worlds

The Grottes de Cougnac are made up of two separate caves, about 200 metres apart — each revealing a different facet of nature’s and humanity’s artistry.

🪨The First Cave – Nature’s Cathedral

The first cave welcomes you into a world of delicate beauty.
Here, millennia of slow mineral deposits have created spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal draperies that shimmer in the soft lighting.
It’s a peaceful underground wonderland where time seems to stand still.

🎨 The Second Cave – Humanity’s First Art Gallery

A short walk away, the second cave unveils something extraordinary: prehistoric cave art dating back between 30,000 and 14,000 years.
Drawn and engraved by early humans, the walls feature mammoths, ibex, deer, and mysterious human figures, brought to life using natural pigments and the rock’s natural contours.

It’s a humbling, emotional experience — standing before the creative expressions of the very first artists in Europe.

A Journey into Prehistory

Discovered in 1949 and 1952, the Grottes de Cougnac quickly became an archaeological landmark.
In 1954, the decorated cave was officially classified as a French Monument Historique, protecting its exceptional prehistoric art.

Guided tours take you through both caves, combining geology, archaeology, and storytelling.
Your guide explains how ancient people used firelight to create depth and motion, and how the Cougnac paintings connect to other legendary sites like Lascaux and Pech Merle.

It’s an immersive step back in time — both a natural wonder and a cultural treasure.

💡 The Visit – Practical Information

The Grottes de Cougnac are open for guided visits throughout the season, offering an intimate and educational experience suitable for all ages.

📍 Location: Payrignac (Lot), just 10 minutes from Camping Le Séquoia in Payrac, 25 minutes from Sarlat, and 20 minutes from Rocamadour
🚗 Access: Easy drive from Payrac via Gourdon
🕒 Duration: Around 1 hour 20 minutes
🎟️ 2025 Prices: Adults €11.50 | Children (5–12) €7.50 | Groups (20+) €9.50
🌡️ Temperature: Around 13°C all year — bring a light jacket
📸 Photography: Allowed in the first (geological) cave only

For up-to-date opening hours or to book group visits, visit the official Grottes de Cougnac website.

✨ Why Visit the Grottes de Cougnac?

Few places in France blend natural beauty and human history as perfectly as Cougnac.
It’s not a crowded tourist site — it’s quiet, authentic, and full of wonder.

You’ll discover:

🌍 An awe-inspiring geological setting with dazzling mineral formations
🎨 Some of the oldest known cave art in the world
🕯️ A calm, atmospheric visit guided by passionate experts

It’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone curious about the origins of art and human imagination.

🚶 Things to See and Do Nearby

After your tour, take a short drive to Gourdon, a charming medieval town perched on a hilltop with stunning panoramic views.
Or wander through nearby Payrignac, where quiet country roads and walking paths let you experience the rural beauty of the Lot and Dordogne Valleys.

For nature lovers, the Grottes de Cougnac can easily be paired with a visit to Rocamadour, the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur, or a canoe trip down the Dordogne River — all less than 30 minutes away.

For nature and history lovers, the region is home to several other fascinating caves to explore, each with its own magic:

The Grottes de Lacave, famous for their illuminated chambers and underground train,
The Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur, a wild and little-known natural gem,
And, of course, the Grottes de Cougnac themselves — just a few minutes from the campsite.

👉 Discover more about these unique underground sites in our dedicated blog series, and start planning your next adventure in the Dordogne and Lot Valleys.

🏕️ Stay at Camping Le Séquoia – Your Perfect Base Between Sarlat and Rocamadour

Located in Payrac, between Sarlat and Rocamadour, Camping Le Séquoia is the ideal starting point for exploring the Lot and Dordogne Valleys.

After a day of discovery, unwind in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere surrounded by nature:

🌊 Heated swimming pool for a refreshing dip

🍽️ Bar-restaurant with terrace for relaxed dining

🏕️ Spacious pitches and fully equipped mobile homes for every comfort level

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly spaces so everyone can enjoy their stay

💫 Exclusive guest benefit:
Camping Le Séquoia is an official partner of the Grottes de Cougnac!
When you stay with us, you’ll receive a special discounted rate on your entry tickets to the Grottes de Cougnac — the perfect way to combine exploration and savings during your holiday.

And that’s not all — our guests also enjoy exclusive discounts at other local attractions, including the Grottes de Lacave and other nearby sites.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

They’re two caves near Gourdon and Payrignac — one filled with stunning mineral formations and the other decorated with prehistoric cave art dating back up to 30,000 years.

Only about 10 minutes by car, making them one of the closest major attractions to the campsite.

Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, always as part of a guided tour.

Yes — the caves are family-friendly, and guides adapt their explanations for younger visitors.

Photography is allowed in the geological cave but not in the decorated cave, to protect the ancient artwork.

Yes — you can arrange small private tours for 1 to 10 people, available on request.

🌄 A Journey Through Nature and Time

The Grottes de Cougnac are more than just a visit — they’re a window into the origins of art and a masterpiece of nature.
Easily accessible from Camping Le Séquoia in Payrac, they’re a must-see during your stay between Sarlat and Rocamadour.

👉 Book your stay at Camping Le Séquoia and take advantage of exclusive partner discounts to discover the Grottes de Cougnac and the natural wonders of southwest France.