Background

Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Grotte des Sadoux: A Bat Haven

Discover a haven for bats and a landscape of natural beauty in the Drôme region of France. Explore the trails surrounding this unique reserve.

The Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Grotte des Sadoux (Sadoux Cave Regional Nature Reserve) is a protected area in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, established in 2010. This 30-hectare reserve safeguards a cave system that serves as a crucial habitat for several bat species. While the cave itself is closed to the public to protect its inhabitants, the surrounding area offers opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Drôme region.

A brief summary to Réserve naturelle régionale de la grotte des Sadoux

  • Pradelle, FR

Local tips

  • Remember that the cave itself is closed to the public to protect the bat populations. Respect the restrictions and enjoy the surrounding natural area.
  • Bring sturdy shoes for hiking on the sometimes rocky terrain around the reserve.
  • Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the immediate vicinity of the reserve.
  • Be aware that the area is managed by the ONF Drôme Ardèche and the LPO Drôme.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Grotte des Sadoux is located near Pradelle. From the village, follow local trails. The trails are well-marked, but be prepared for some uphill hiking. The path leads through the forest, eventually arriving at the reserve area. Remember to stay on marked paths to minimize disturbance to the local wildlife. There are no entrance fees or parking costs associated with visiting the reserve.

Unlock the Best of Réserve naturelle régionale de la grotte des Sadoux

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Réserve naturelle régionale de la grotte des Sadoux

The Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Grotte des Sadoux is located in the Drôme department, in the Diois area, within the commune of Pradelle. Situated at an altitude of 840 meters in the Roanne state forest, the reserve encompasses the Sadoux cave and a portion of the surrounding forest, totaling nearly 30 hectares. The primary purpose of the reserve is to protect the cave, which extends for 310 meters and provides shelter for several bat species. The cave is of international significance for bats, housing one of only two known breeding colonies of Miniopterus schreibersii (Schreiber's long-fingered bat) in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. In total, seven bat species have been identified within the reserve, including the greater horseshoe bat and the greater and lesser mouse-eared bats. The entrance to the cave is gated to ensure the bats' protection. Beyond the cave, the reserve features a diverse landscape of rocky areas, scrubland, and woodlands of oak and Scots pine. These open environments, including scree slopes and dry grasslands, support a variety of insect life, including protected species such as the Scarce Large Blue. While access to the cave is restricted, the surrounding area offers hiking trails and opportunities to appreciate the natural environment of the Drôme Provençale.

Popular Experiences near Réserve naturelle régionale de la grotte des Sadoux

Popular Hotels near Réserve naturelle régionale de la grotte des Sadoux

Select Currency