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Grotte de Domme: A Subterranean Journey Through Time

Explore the depths of the Dordogne at Grotte de Domme, a natural wonder beneath a medieval village. A journey through geology and history.

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Descend beneath the picturesque bastide town of Domme to explore the Grotte de Domme, a stunning cave system adorned with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations. Discovered in 1912, the cave has served as both a natural wonder and a refuge throughout history, offering visitors a cool escape and breathtaking views of the Dordogne Valley.

A brief summary to Grotte de Domme

Local tips

  • Dress warmly, as the cave temperature remains a constant 13–15°C.
  • Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for exploring the cave's terrain.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Check the departure times, as they vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Domme, Place de la Halle, the entrance to Grotte de Domme is located beneath the 17th-century Halle. The walk is short and direct, allowing you to admire the village square before descending into the cave. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Sarlat-la-Canéda or Bergerac, disembark at the Domme bus stop. From there, walk towards the village center and Place de la Halle, where you'll find the entrance to the Grotte de Domme beneath the market hall. Bus fares typically range from €2 to €5 for a single trip, depending on the distance.

  • Driving

    When driving to Domme, follow signs to the village center. Parking is available in several lots around Domme. During the busy summer months, it's recommended to park in the lower lots and walk or take a shuttle to the top. Parking fees range from €4 for 3 hours in the Bastide parking lots to €4 for 4 hours in the St James or Le Pradal exterior parking. Be aware that access to the Bastide is restricted for buses and camping-cars, which should park at Aire du Pradal.

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Discover more about Grotte de Domme

The Grotte de Domme, nestled beneath the historic bastide town of Domme, is a captivating natural attraction in the Périgord Noir region. Officially discovered in 1912, local legends suggest knowledge of its existence dates back much further, possibly even to French King Philippe III in 1281. Today, it stands as the largest developed cave open to the public in the area, stretching over 450 meters. Inside, visitors are greeted by a mesmerizing display of geological artistry. Over millions of years, water, time, and mineral deposits have sculpted limestone galleries filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 13–15°C, providing a cool retreat. The Grotte de Domme has also played a role in the region's history, serving as a refuge during times of war. During the trial of the Knights Templar in 1307, the bastide of Domme served as a prison for the Knights, who left engravings on the prison walls. The cave's path has been redesigned with environmentally-friendly lighting, enhancing the concretions, reliefs, and colors. The exit leads to a panoramic elevator, offering views of the Dordogne valley.

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