Les Eyzies de Tayac

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, in the Dordogne, is regarded as one of the world's capitals of prehistory, with the Vézère Valley listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village houses a national Museum of Prehistory, free of charge for EU residents under 26, tracing human occupation of the region over thousands of years. The surrounding area is dotted with troglodyte sites and decorated caves, including the renowned Lascaux caves, as well as cliffs sheltering prehistoric dwellings such as La Roque Saint-Christophe. The River Vézère is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, offering a calm, refreshing route through unspoilt scenery, with few crowds outside peak season. A market is regularly held in the village. The surrounding area also invites exploration of emblematic villages and sites of the Périgord Noir, such as La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud castle, and further afield Rocamadour and the Gouffre de Padirac. Puymartin castle is also well worth a visit. For a bite to eat, Le Mentalo restaurant offers simple, reasonably priced fare. Walking and hiking naturally complement this area, rich in both heritage and nature.