Background

Cave of Goupillières: A Journey into Troglodyte Life

Discover the ancient troglodyte village of Goupillières, a unique journey into the underground dwellings of medieval farmers in the Loire Valley.

4.5

Explore the Cave of Goupillières in Azay-le-Rideau, a captivating troglodyte site that unveils the mysteries of ancient cave dwellings. Rediscovered in the 1960s, this enchanting cave system offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited these underground spaces. Wander through the cool, dimly lit passages and discover the secrets of this remarkable troglodyte village.

A brief summary to Cave of Goupillières

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven ground within the cave dwellings.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the paths around the site are mostly outdoors.
  • Allow at least 1.5 hours to fully explore the site and learn about the history of the cave dwellers.
  • Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For visitors using public transportation, take a train to Azay-le-Rideau from Tours. Once you arrive at Azay-le-Rideau train station, exit the station and head towards the bus stop. Take the local bus (Line 4) towards 'Artannes' and get off at the stop 'Les Goupillières'. From the bus stop, it's a short 10-minute walk to the Cave of Goupillières, following Route d'Artannes. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited, especially on weekends. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Driving

    If driving from Azay-le-Rideau, head southeast on Rue de la République towards Rue de la Mairie. After about 500 meters, turn left onto Rue de l'Ancien Moulin. Continue onto Route d'Artannes. Follow the road for approximately 3 kilometers. Look for signs to the Cave of Goupillières, which will be on your left. There is parking available on-site. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Cave of Goupillières

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cave of Goupillières

The Cave of Goupillières, also known as Vallée troglodytique des Goupillières, is an ancient village of cave houses located in the picturesque region of Azay-le-Rideau. This hidden gem was rediscovered in the 1960s and has since been transformed into a fascinating tourist attraction. The site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of peasants who inhabited these troglodyte farms from the Middle Ages onwards. The troglodyte dwellings are carved out of the region's characteristic tufa rock and feature various living spaces, including wells, bread ovens, stables, and grain silos. These underground shelters provided refuge and served as functional homes for the villagers. Visitors can explore the three authentic farms in the tufa stone hollows, either independently or on a guided tour. The tour provides insights into the daily lives of the farmers who lived there from the Middle Ages through the 19th century, with a focus on their underground refuge. The site also includes a kitchen garden, a wine grower's lodge, and farm animals, offering a comprehensive view of peasant life in the Touraine region. The visit typically takes about 1.5 hours.

Popular Experiences near Cave of Goupillières

Popular Hotels near Cave of Goupillières

Select Currency