Cave of the Orjobet

The Cave of the Orjobet sits within the Salève mountain range at roughly 1200 meters elevation and contains natural limestone formations throughout its chambers. The cave retains its semi-wild state with untouched rock structures and various passages that lead through its interior.

Naturalist Horace-Bénédict de Saussure discovered the cave in 1779 and named it after his mountain guide François Orjobe. In subsequent years it became a destination for naturalists and researchers, with the Swiss Alpine Club later establishing a formal trail to reach it in 1905.

The cave takes its name from François Orjobe, a local guide who assisted Saussure during his exploration. Visitors today can still follow the simple path through the mountain that has been used by people for more than a century.

Visitors should bring their own lighting as the cave has no artificial illumination and remains in its natural state. Sturdy footwear is important for safely navigating the uneven rock surfaces and damp areas inside.

Inside the cave sits a realistic statue that unexpectedly appears among the natural rock formations. This artistic creation forms a striking contrast to the wild geology and regularly catches the attention of visitors.

Location: Collonges-sous-Salève

Elevation above the sea: 1,200 m

Made from material: limestone

Part of: Salève

GPS coordinates: 46.13143,6.16891

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:40