Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is a small village situated at the entrance to the Ardèche Gorge. It is a popular place for active recreation with the possibility of canoeing and hiking. In its vicinity, there are famous caves with rock paintings, including the Chauvet Cave.
The vicinity of today's town was already inhabited in prehistoric times. This is evidenced by the local archaeological finds, especially the three caves with rock carvings, the Pont d'Arc Cave, the Chauvet Cave and the Derocs Cave. None of them are open to the public, but a faithful replica has been built at the Cave of the Pont d'Arc. The paintings have been transferred using computer imaging that can be admired without endangering the original works.
The attraction of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is also based on the extremely picturesque surroundings. There is one of the most beautiful gorges in France, the Ardèche Gorge. The place got its name from the natural rock arch located there. On the river flowing through the gorge, you can go canoeing, and there are small secluded beaches on the shores. There are also many hiking and biking trails.
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc itself is a quiet, traditional village with stone buildings and lots of greenery. It is a good starting point for exploring the surrounding attractions. There are both guesthouses and restaurants here.
