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Grotte de la Madeleine: A Subterranean Spectacle

Discover a breathtaking subterranean world in the Ardèche Gorges, featuring stunning rock formations and a mesmerizing sound and light show.

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Explore the Grotte de la Madeleine, a stunning cave system in the heart of the Ardèche Gorges. Discovered in 1888, this natural wonder features breathtaking rock formations, colossal draperies, and a mesmerizing sound and light show, offering an unforgettable journey into the depths of the earth.

A brief summary to Grotte de la Madeleine

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the cave has steep and sometimes slippery steps.
  • The cave temperature is a cool 15°C (59°F) year-round, so bring a light jacket.
  • Arrive early during peak season (July-August) to avoid crowds.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guides available in multiple languages.
  • Allow time to explore the belvedere and discovery trail for stunning views of the Ardèche Gorges.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Grotte de la Madeleine is located on the Route Touristique des Gorges de l'Ardèche (D290), between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche. From Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, take the D290 road towards Saint-Remèze. Follow the signs for Grotte de la Madeleine. Parking is available on-site. A small fee of around €5 EUR may be charged.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc to Saint-Remèze. Check the local bus schedule for exact times. From the Saint-Remèze bus stop, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to Grotte de la Madeleine. Follow Route Touristique des Gorges de l'Ardèche until you see the entrance to the cave. Bus fare is approximately €2-€4 EUR.

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Discover more about Grotte de la Madeleine

Venture into the heart of the Ardèche Gorges and discover the Grotte de la Madeleine, a captivating cave system that unveils nature's artistic prowess. Discovered in 1888 by a shepherd named Germain Rigaud while searching for a lost goat, the cave has since become a popular destination for those seeking to explore the subterranean wonders of the Ardèche region. The Grotte de la Madeleine comprises two interconnected caves: the upper Grotte de l'Escure (also known as the Bear Cave) and the lower Grotte de la Madeleine. A man-made tunnel links the two, allowing visitors to traverse both chambers. The tour extends over 500 meters, a kilometer round trip, descending 65 meters into the earth. Inside, prepare to be amazed by the stunning array of geological formations. The cave is renowned for its impressive draperies, the largest in France, reaching up to 6 meters in height. Admire the delicate white crystals, imposing columns, stalactites, stalagmites and other unique concretions shaped over millennia. A sound and light show enhances the beauty of the cave, creating a truly immersive experience. Beyond the cave itself, the Grotte de la Madeleine offers a panoramic belvedere with exceptional views of the Ardèche Gorges. Take the time to explore the surrounding area, with its marked discovery trail that reveals the diverse fauna, flora, and geology of the Nature Reserve.

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