The hidden cave system of Rouffignac is millions of years old
Lonely Planet
THE train cart rattles along the track. Leaving the bright sunshine behind, you plunge deep into the dank, subterranean world.
The guide points out scratch marks on the wall — made by bears, who fortunately don’t live in the caves anymore. Venturing deeper, you pass some engravings and drawings of a rhino, horses and a procession of mammoths. They are impressive. Not simply childish drawings of animals, but skilled works of art.
Two kilometres in, the train grinds to a halt. You get out and start to walk, hoping the movement will warm up your limbs. You stumble into a hidden gallery, darkness engulfing the group. The guide explains in hushed tones why these caves are so magnificent.
At last, you’re allowed to switch on your head-torch. Gazing upwards, you now understand what the guide was on about. Animals of all shapes and sizes adorn the ceiling. Some intricately painted, others simple line drawings. No wonder this is known as the “Great Ceiling”.
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Rock art in Rouffignac Cave. Picture: Getty Images/Lonely Planet Source: Getty Images