Gouffre de Padirac, Padirac
Facts and practical information
The Gouffre de Padirac is an extraordinary natural wonder and a premiere tourist attraction nestled in the scenic heart of Padirac, France. Known as one of the most fascinating caverns in Europe, this subterranean marvel invites visitors to explore the depths of the earth in what feels like a journey to the center of the world.
The entrance to the Gouffre de Padirac is a colossal chasm, measuring an impressive 35 meters in diameter and plunging 103 meters straight down. To reach the underground network of galleries and chambers, tourists descend via a lift or a staircase that winds around the awe-inspiring pit. At the bottom, a serene underground river awaits, where guided boat tours navigate the silent waters, leading adventurers through a series of majestic caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
One of the highlights of the tour is the Grand Dôme, a massive chamber soaring 94 meters high, which showcases the power of nature's artistry over millions of years. The ethereal beauty of formations like the Great Pendant, a 60-meter-tall stalactite, leaves visitors in awe of this underground landscape.
The Gouffre de Padirac was first explored in 1889 by Édouard-Alfred Martel, the father of modern speleology, and has since captivated the imaginations of all who have ventured into its depths. The site is open to the public from early April to early November, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike.
Occitanie