Grottes du Cerdon, Show cave between Cerdon and Labalme, France
Grottes du Cerdon is a cave system running through limestone formations that displays the former path of an underground river, with chambers varying in temperature throughout. Multiple passages connect different sections, revealing the geological layers that formed this subterranean space over millennia.
Archaeological investigations beginning in 1914 revealed multiple cave entrances that functioned as strategic observation points for monitoring surrounding lands. These findings show that this location held significance for people living in the region for a long time.
The cave entrance functioned as a storage space for aging Bleu de Gex cheese during the 1930s, revealing the deep connection between this limestone cave and regional food traditions. Today, walking through these passages helps visitors understand how local communities once relied on such natural spaces for their craft.
Access is available from mid-April through October, with guided tours lasting about 75 minutes or self-guided options using downloadable audio guides. Wearing sturdy footwear is advisable since the cave paths are uneven and temperatures remain cool throughout the year.
An adjoining prehistoric park offers hands-on activities such as fire-making, pottery classes, and traditional spear-throwing for visitors to try. These interactive experiences give a sense of how people lived and worked during prehistoric times.
Location: Cerdon
Location: Labalme
Website: http://grotte-cerdon.com
GPS coordinates: 46.09390,5.48361
Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:56
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