Caving: Dare the Underground Adventure!

When one wishes to visit Ardèche, the famous Pont d’Arc and Ardèche Gorges immediately come to mind. However, for sports and history enthusiasts, it’s also possible to discover the region in a different way with a caving getaway. Discover here the best places for spelunking in Ardèche.

1. The Cave of Deux Avens

The Pont d’Arc is a must-see when visiting Ardèche, but have you ever explored the underground part of the area? Here, you can admire traces of millions of years of natural and human history. This cave is very interesting for beginners as it offers a complete introduction to the activity through a varied course with rappelling, narrow passages, beautiful halls, and many other surprises. Moreover, the course is quite simple as it’s not very technical and can be completed in half a day. If you wish to explore this cave with your family, the Cave of Deux Avens is suitable for children aged 8 and above.

2. The Fontaine de Champclos

The Fontaine de Champclos is a beautiful, varied cavity, perfect for a first exploration. It has very large volumes, beautiful formations, and numerous rope passages that allow for a full-day journey. Additionally, this cave allows entry into the gigantic hall of “Mont-Blancs”, which measures over 80m in height! Definitely worth discovering.

3. The Cave of Croix Blanches

The Cave of Croix Blanches is ideal if you want to introduce your children to spelunking in Ardèche. This course is accessible from the age of 5 and lasts only 2.5 hours. However, despite its short duration, the course offers the joys of spelunking with magnificent halls and formations. Moreover, access to the galleries is particularly easy. It’s the perfect cave for a family adventure.

4. The Cave of Jeunes

The Cave of Jeunes is particularly recommended for complete beginners in spelunking as well as for children. It’s a 2-hour journey with narrow passages. The course resembles more of an underground walk or an aquatic playground. However, it’s ideal for first-time spelunkers. Along the way, you’ll follow a river to admire the stalactites and stalagmites of the cave.

5. The Cave of Saint-Marcel, also known as The Giants’ Causeway

If you want to go a little further and explore a slightly more complex route, we recommend the Cave of Saint-Marcel. This 7-hour journey requires a bit more technique and good physical condition. Plan a day to explore its 2 kilometers of galleries and its underground lake. The course involves rappelling and climbing on spelunking ladders. It’s a perfect blend for an unforgettable day of spelunking in Ardèche.