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SeeDordogne

Grotte des Merveilles, Rocamadour

Prehistoric cave with examples of rock formations & cave paintings

featured in Sights & sites

Formed in the Middle Jurasic period as much as 150 million years ago this cave offers the chance to see nature at her best. Rock formations, calcified pillars and cave paintings are amongst the sites to be seen here.

There is a small boutique selling souvenirs, books, minerals and postcards. Ice creams and drinks are also available and there are tables and chairs here. A children's play area and shaded green park is perfect for picnics and to relax.

The guided tour takes approximately 45 minutes and must be reserved in advance. Tours are available in English if request upon reservation.

Worth knowing

The temperature in the cave is a constant 13 degrees so take a jumper. Also, sensible shoes are advisable as the ground is wet and there are some puddles.

Who should go

Entrance to the cave is via a set of steps. These are not suitable for wheelchair users or for pushchairs. People with reduced mobility will struggle.

Visitor comments

  • "This visit blew my mind, amazing to see that nature has created this over many many years. with a little boat and a walk you can see wat water does to stone. It's a bit cold underground, so a sweater is a must needed item to take with you!" - Trip Advisor
  • "Our guide was a charming and very knowledgeable young woman, an art student, who told our small English-speaking group of five people all sorts of interesting facts about both the geology of the cave and the artwork of our prehistoric ancestors. The intimacy of this tour, the opportunity to ask questions, and the chance to get quite close to the drawings of animals made this a memorable experience." - Trip Advisor
  • "A nice lecture in a relatively small cave. The guide was knowledgeable and spoke good English and, of course, better French. Some wall paintings and geological formations. Wear good hiking shoes." - Trip Advisor

When to come

This cave is open between April and mid-November. Entry is only be guided tour and these leave at specified times.

April, May, June & September: 10:30, 11:30, 14:15, 15:15, 16:15 and 17:15
July & August: First departure is at 09:45 and then every 50 minutes until 18:15.
October to mid-November: 10:30, 11:30, 14:15, 15:15 and 16:15

How to book

You have to make a reservation in advance which you can do by using the enquiry link above. If you wish a tour in English then you must specify this when booking.

How to get passes

Tickets are available at the attraction ticket office. Booking in advance is advisable. If you wish to buy a ticket on the day then you may be asked to return at an allotted time.

Location

Map of the surrounding area