Grottes de Bétharram: A Subterranean Journey

The Grottes de Bétharram, located on the border of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Hautes-Pyrénées departments, present a captivating journey into the depths of the earth. Discovered in 1819, the caves were among the first to open to the public, offering visitors a unique exploration of a multi-level cave system. The adventure begins with a guided tour through the upper galleries, showcasing vast chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Descend 80 meters into the Gouffre (shaft) to reach the underground river, where you'll embark on a boat trip. The tour culminates with a ride on a small electric train through a 400-meter tunnel back to the surface, completing a traverse of the mountain. The caves feature a constant temperature of 14°C year-round, so dressing accordingly is advisable. The entire tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and is available in multiple languages. Throughout the tour, guides provide commentary on the cave's history, geology, and the fascinating processes of erosion that have shaped the caverns over millennia. The Grottes de Bétharram offer a comprehensive look at cave formation, displaying five levels that were carved out at different times.