Grottes de Bèze: An Underground River Adventure

Discover the enchanting Grottes de Bèze: Explore underground rivers, marvel at stunning rock formations, and uncover centuries of history in the heart of Burgundy's picturesque Bèze village.

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Grottes de Bèze

Venture into the heart of Burgundy and discover the Grottes de Bèze, a mesmerizing cave system carved by an underground river. Explore the caves on foot and by boat, gliding through crystal-clear waters while marveling at stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The Grottes de Bèze offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, as the caves once served as a refuge for villagers and monks during times of invasion. With a constant temperature of 12°C, the caves provide a cool escape, and the guided tours offer fascinating insights into the geological formations and the cave's history. After your subterranean adventure, explore the charming village of Bèze, known for its medieval architecture and picturesque riverside setting. Don't miss the nearby Abbey, founded in 630, adding another layer of historical depth to your visit. The Grottes de Bèze promise an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

A brief summary to Grottes de Bèze

Chem. des Grottes, Bèze, 21310, FR
+33380753133
Visit website

Saturday 10 am-12 pm
Sunday 10 am-12 pm

Local tips

Wear warm clothing, as the cave temperature remains a constant 12°C (54°F) year-round.
Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and potential closures due to weather conditions.
Combine your cave visit with a stroll through the charming village of Bèze and a tour of the Abbey (open in summer).
Note that the caves are not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid potential wait times for the guided tour.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Dijon, take the Mobigo line 105 bus towards Bèze. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Centre' stop in Bèze. From the bus stop, walk along the main road, following signs for the Grottes de Bèze. The caves are located a short walk from the village center, approximately 5-10 minutes. A single bus fare costs around €2.
Driving

From Dijon, take the D974 and D959 to Bèze. Follow signs for 'Grottes de Bèze'. Upon arrival in Bèze, follow the road to Chemin des Grottes. Parking is available near the cave entrance. Parking is free. The drive from Dijon takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Dijon, a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber) to Grottes de Bèze will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Expect to pay between €60-€75 for the trip.

Discover more about Grottes de Bèze

The Grottes de Bèze, located in the charming village of Bèze in the Côte-d'Or department, offer a captivating journey into the depths of the earth. These natural caves, sculpted by an underground river, have been a source of wonder and refuge for centuries. The first chamber of the cave has been known since the Middle Ages, offering shelter to villagers and monks during times of unrest. However, the underground river was only discovered in September 1950, by Mrs. Renaud, Sage, and Velard, with exploration continuing with the Spéléo Club of Dijon. Twenty years later, the caves were developed and opened to the public, thanks to the vision of then-mayor Robert Poinsot. The adventure begins with a guided walk through the first chamber, where you'll learn about the cave's geology and history. Marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millennia by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. The tour then transitions to a unique boat ride on the underground river. Glide through the crystal-clear waters, illuminated to showcase the stunning rock formations. The boat takes you to the 'White Room,' named after one of the speleologists involved in the river's discovery, which can also be explored on foot. The return journey is also by boat, offering a different perspective on the cave's wonders. The navigable section of the cave extends for approximately 500 meters, and the entire guided tour lasts about 40-45 minutes. The temperature inside the cave remains a constant 12°C (54°F), so it's advisable to bring a warm sweater or jacket. Photography is not allowed inside the cave to protect the delicate ecosystem and preserve the experience for all visitors. Beyond the caves, the village of Bèze itself is a treasure trove of history and beauty. The village is built around the resurgence of the Bèze River, a Vaucluse spring that adds to the area's charm. Explore the remains of the Benedictine abbey, founded in 630 AD, and admire the medieval houses, washhouses, and the Oysel Tower. In summer, the abbey is open to the public, offering guided tours that delve into its rich past. Bèze's history is intertwined with the caves. According to local lore, the caves served as a refuge for the village inhabitants and the monks of the abbey when Normans invaded in 888. The village's name itself has Celtic origins, derived from 'BEZW,' meaning 'river at the source,' highlighting the importance of the Bèze River to the area. The Grottes de Bèze are open to visitors from April to early November, with varying hours depending on the season. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and potential closures due to weather conditions, especially heavy rain, which can affect the navigability of the underground river. Tickets can be purchased at the welcome center next to the caves, and reservations are only required for groups of 10 or more. The site offers amenities such as parking, restrooms, a picnic area, and a shop. While visiting the Grottes de Bèze, consider these additional activities to enhance your experience: * **Explore the Village:** Take a stroll through the picturesque village of Bèze, admiring its medieval architecture, washhouses, and the Oysel Tower. * **Visit the Abbey:** During the summer months, explore the Abbey Saint-Pierre de Bèze, founded in 630 AD, and learn about its history. * **Hike Along the River:** Enjoy a scenic walk along the Bèze River, discovering its source and the surrounding natural beauty. * **Dine in Bèze:** Savor the local cuisine at one of Bèze's restaurants, experiencing the flavors of Burgundy. * **Visit Mirebeau-sur-Bèze:** Explore the nearby town of Mirebeau-sur-Bèze, known for its historical significance and charming atmosphere. The Grottes de Bèze offer a unique and unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, historical intrigue, and a touch of adventure. Whether you're a seasoned cave explorer or a first-time visitor, the Grottes de Bèze are sure to leave you with lasting memories.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Grottes de Bèze: An Underground River Adventure

A brief summary to Grottes de Bèze

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Driving

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Grottes de Bèze

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Grottes de Bèze

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Que visiter en Belgique? Visite guidée & randonnée

japonais Garden

Église du Sacré-Cœur

Palais des Sports de Dijon

cirque medrano

Dijon Opera

Rue des Bonnes Mères

Pl. de la République

Tour Saint-Nicolas

Saint Nicolas Tower of Dijon

La Maison des Cariatides

Fondation du patrimoine - Délégation Bourgogne-Franche-Comté à Dijon

Antiquités PORRO

Rue Verrerie

Place Saint Bernard

Unmissable attractions to see

Toison d'Or Park

ru de Pouilly Woods

Park Grésilles

Pouilly Castle Park

FETE FORAINE DIJON

Latitude21, la maison de l'architecture et de l'environnement du Grand Dijon

Le Saint Banc

Monument Sadi Carnot

la maison rouge

Parc des Argentières

Saint Michael's Church

Vogüé Hotel

Rude Museum

The Owl of Dijon

Halles centrales et marché central

Essential places to dine

Le Concept

Restaurant Le Château Bourgogne

Le Noti

BISTROT DES TRAMWAYS

Chez Septime

Le P'tit Bouchon Dijonnais

La Bourgogne

L'ARÔME

L'Aspérule DIJON

Le Coin Caché

L'BOUT D' LA RUE

SPICA

Restaurant Dijon L'évidence | Restaurant Bistronomique

CIBO restaurant gastronomique à Dijon

L'un des sens

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