Padirac Cave, Natural cave system in Lot, France
The Padirac Cave features a 75-meter deep chasm leading to an underground river network extending more than 40 kilometers through limestone formations.
Explorer Edouard-Alfred Martel discovered the cave system in 1889 and initiated the first public access with support from local priest Joseph de Laroussilhe.
The cave entrance holds a medieval legend where Satan challenged Saint Peter to create the chasm while competing for the souls of the damned.
The cave tour includes 172 steps down, followed by a guided boat journey on the underground river to see mineral formations and vast chambers.
The underground network contains the Grand Dome chamber with a 94-meter ceiling and features the Grande Pendeloque, a 60-meter stalactite above the Rain Lake.
Location: Padirac
Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access
Address: Le Gouffre, 46500 Padirac, France 46500 Padirac
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:30-19:30
Phone: +33565336456
Website: http://gouffre-de-padirac.com
GPS coordinates: 44.85805,1.75014
Latest update: October 14, 2025 17:09
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