Walking Dordogne’s “Ode to the Neanderthal” has been the most popular hike since they launched it about 5 years ago. This hike offers everything Prehistoric you could wish for, such as caves, caves, shelters, caves, troglodytes and caves and did I mention caves?

This is not just any old hike to a cave, these where the actual roaming grounds of both our Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon ancestors. Both roamed, sheltered and hunted these grounds. Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon artifacts have been found in the caves and shelters on this trail. This is the closest you will ever get to experiencing the daily life of our Prehistoric ancestors.. GUARANTEED!!

Ode to the Neanderthal I’m afraid is not suited for everyone, and for numerous reasons. The full trail is a full days hike, and by a full day I mean about 12 hours, walking, crawling and climbing.  Another reason is that this trail takes you to quite a few caves, ledges and shelters that are not easily accessed and some climbing is needed. Also the trail takes you on a few very narrow sections with quite a drop on one side.

However, for the few lucky people that like to take on a challenge, the reward is one that will stay with you for a lifetime.

There is a shorter version of this hike, called The Mammoths Trail, takes you on the first section of Ode to the Neanderthal.

For more info please visit www.walkingdordogne.com