The countless caves in the Ardèche
A limestone plateau once under the sea, the gorges de l’Ardèche abound in caves, avens and other cavities carved out by water run-off and collapses. Some caves can be visited on foot and are open to the general public. For example, theAven d’Orgnac, the Grotte de la Madeleine, the Grotte de Saint Marcel, the Grotte de la Forestière, the Grotte de la Salamandre, etc.
Caving in the Ardèche
Other caves can only be visited with special equipment and accompanied by a professional, for obvious safety reasons. Whatever your level, for caving in the Ardèche, you’ll find a suitable cave to visit near Mas de la Fontenette
Caving in the Ardèche for children
For the very young, specially designed for 7-12 year olds. L’Aven d’Orgnac offers an introductory course for toddlers called Spéléominot, supervised by an enthusiastic guide with a Brevet d’Etat (state diploma), on a route not usually accessible to visitors.
Children will have their first experience of the underground, discovering sparkling stalagmites and stalactites, climbing boulders, new rooms and hidden caves, a mini via-cordata… They’ll be dressed in the full equipment of a real caver. It’s an unforgettable experience, and one that will give children a real boost to their self-confidence. TheAven d’Orgnac is just a 10-minute drive from the Mas de la Fontenette
Introduction to caving in the Ardèche (children and adults)
L’Aven d’Orgnac offers introductory caving courses all year round, led by a qualified guide. Enjoy a panoramic abseiling descent 50 metres underground. Enjoy a panoramic view of an immense cavity with its impressive and abundant stalagmites and stalagmites. You’ll be very close to the cave’s normally inaccessible ceilings. At the end of the tour, you’ll finish in style with a zip line! Adrenalin guaranteed from start to finish!
There are 3 routes to choose from, depending on your adrenaline needs: the Panoramic Descent, the Underground Vertigo and the Combined.
Our favourite partner for caving in the Ardèche
Click on the QR Codes below or scan them with your mobile phone to go directly to the pages of our favourite partner
So don’t miss out on the chance to try your hand at caving in the Ardèche. All our guests who have done so are delighted, including those who were apprehensive at the outset.
Frequently asked questions about caving in the Ardèche
Caving, or the exploration of caves and caverns, can be practised all year round, but the optimum conditions vary according to various factors such as the weather, the season and geographical location. It is therefore essential to take weather conditions into account and prepare accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The necessary equipment is generally provided by the service provider. Participants should come with good mud-resistant footwear, a complete set of clean clothes that will come in very handy when you leave the cave and a huge desire for adventure, nature and self-discovery
As a beginner in caving, it is quite natural to feel apprehensive about a new and sometimes intimidating activity. Everyone who caves has started out with the same apprehension as you. By following the advice of your instructors and taking gradual steps, you can overcome your apprehension and fully enjoy this unique and exciting experience.
As the Mas de la Fontenette, with its heated swimming pool and wellness area, in Labastide de Virac borders the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve, most of the caving routes are in the immediate vicinity.Aven d’Orgnac is just 10 minutes away by car. The others are less than 30 minutes away. Numerous caves suitable for caving are located on both sides of the gorges de l’Ardèche.