Just 15 km from Rocamadour, the Padirac Chasm is one of France's most spectacular natural wonders. This giant cavity, 35 metres in diameter, plunges 103 metres underground where an emerald-coloured underground river flows. An unforgettable experience that attracts over 500,000 visitors each year.
Discovered in 1889 by explorer Edouard-Alfred Martel, the Padirac Chasm offers an extraordinary journey into the bowels of the Earth, between thousand-year-old stalactites and underground lakes of striking beauty.
Deep Underground
A vertiginous descent into a fascinating underground world
What to Expect
The visit to the Padirac Chasm is an adventure in several stages lasting approximately 1.5 hours:
1. The Descent into the Chasm
You first descend 103 metres deep by stairs or lifts. The view from the bottom of the chasm, with the sky appearing as a small circle of light, is vertiginous and unforgettable.
2. The Underground Boat Ride
The highlight of the visit: a boat trip on the underground river. For 500 metres, you glide silently over emerald-green waters, illuminated by soft lighting that reveals the limestone formations.
3. The Galleries and the Great Dome Hall
The walking tour takes you to the Great Dome Hall, a natural cathedral 94 metres high. You'll also admire the famous Grande Pendeloque, a giant 60-metre stalactite.
Practical Information 2025
- Opening period: April to November
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (until 9:00 PM in summer)
- Prices: Adult 19 EUR / Child (4-12 years) 14 EUR
- Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Temperature: Constant 13C - bring a jacket
- Distance from hotel: 15 km (20 minutes)
Our Tips for a Successful Visit
When to Go?
- Best period: May-June and September to avoid crowds
- Ideal time: First thing in the morning (9:30 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM)
- Avoid: Weekends in July-August (long queues)
What to Wear?
The underground temperature is 13C year-round, regardless of the weather outside. Plan for:
- A sweater or light jacket, even in summer
- Comfortable closed shoes (wet and slippery ground)
- Avoid flip-flops and high heels
Book in Advance
In high season, online booking is highly recommended. It allows you to choose your time slot and avoid queues that can sometimes be long (up to 2 hours in August).
Accessibility
The visit involves approximately 500 steps (descent and ascent). Lifts are available for the descent into the chasm, but part of the walking tour remains mandatory. The visit is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Children from 4 years old can enjoy the visit. Pushchairs are not allowed.
Combine with Rocamadour
The Padirac Chasm and Rocamadour are the two must-sees of the Lot, located just 15 km apart. We recommend:
- Morning: Visit the Padirac Chasm (arrive at 9:30 AM)
- Lunch: Restaurant in Rocamadour or return to the hotel
- Afternoon: Visit the medieval city and sanctuaries
From the Hotel Les Vieilles Tours, you are ideally located to explore both wonders in one day while enjoying the peace of our estate in the evening.
Your Base for Exploring the Lot
Stay at Hotel Les Vieilles Tours, 15 km from the Padirac Chasm and 2 km from Rocamadour.
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