
Dolmen at Champagnac
Dolmens in the Ardèche
Did you know that with almost 900 megaliths, there are more dolmens in the Ardèche than in Brittany? The dolmen at Champagnac, in the Ardèche, are among the most impressive megalithic monuments. It bears witness to the burial practices and beliefs of the region’s Neolithic populations. This dolmen is one of the many prehistoric buildings to be found in the Ardèche. It consists of large slabs of stone standing vertically, supporting a huge flat stone that forms the roof. These structures served as collective tombs and probably illustrated complex funeral rituals.
It is located between Labastide de Virac and Salavas. The path is signposted on its final stretch. Near Mas de la Fontenette, there are several dozen dolmens, notably around Aven d’Orgnac. They are all accessible by hiking from Mas de la Fontenette, our holiday rental in the Ardèche with swimming pool. Also accessible from Mas de la Fontenette are the Devèze dolmen, the Font du Loup dolmen, the Oeillantes dolmens, the Bourbouillet dolmens, etc.
A fairly well-preserved dolmen
The Champagnac dolmen stands out for its remarkable state of preservation and its imposing size. It is an archaeological site of great importance. Excavations carried out around the dolmen have uncovered a variety of objects, including stone tools and fragments of pottery. These discoveries offer a valuable insight into everyday life and ritual practices in the Neolithic period.
Situated in an unspoilt natural setting, the Champagnac dolmen is surrounded by picturesque landscapes typical of the Ardèche, with its green hills and dense forests.
For archaeology and history enthusiasts, the Champagnac dolmen offers a unique opportunity to delve into the distant past of the Ardèche and discover the mysteries of these megalithic structures. Information panels and guided tours give visitors a better understanding of the historical and cultural importance of this monument.
In conclusion, the Champagnac dolmen is an archaeological and cultural treasure trove in the Ardèche, offering visitors a fascinating plunge into Neolithic history. It also invites them to enjoy the enchanting landscapes of this magnificent region.
Location of the Champagnac Dolmen from Mas de la Fontenette
The Dolmen de Champagnac is just 1 hour’s walk from the Mas de la Fontenette, our 4-star gite with private heated pool and wellness area in Labastide de Virac in the Gorges de l’Ardèche.
Here is the Googlemaps itinerary for the Dolmen de Champagnac from the Mas de la Fontenette and its precise coordinates.
