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StalagmiteBest Caves in the Dordogne  Due to the number of rivers and the local geology it's no surprise that the Dordogne has some  magnificent cave complexes.  You will find two different types: "Gouffres" are underground caves, whilst "Grottes" are usually accessed from a rock face.  Most offer traditional stalagmite/stalactite formations, although some are famous for their ancient cave paintings.  The Gouffres de Padirac and Proumeyssac are our favourites.

View from La Grotte du Grand Roc

La Grotte du Grand Roc

Location: This delightful cave is situated about 1km north of Les Eyzies on the D47.
General Info: There is ample parking (see picture opposite) across the road and queues are quite reasonable.  All tours are guided and last about 30 minutes.  The guides are usually able to provide commentary in both French and English.  Not suitable for disabled visitors at all.  Open in July and August from 9.30AM – 7PM.  For other opening times please telephone 05 53 06 92 70.
Description: The Grand Roc cave opened in 1927.  It is remarkable that it was discovered at all for the entrance is half way up a cliff face.  The caves boast some unusual triangular crystallised rock formations as well as the more usual stalagmites and stalactites. 
Our recommendations: Try to combine it with a visit to another attraction in the area such as the Village du Bournat as this will only be a short visit.
Not suitable for disabledFor the children: They will probably enjoy it as it is a short tour.  But it is not really oriented to kids.

Our favourite caves in the Dordogne:

         - Gouffre de Padirac
         - Gouffre de Proumeyssac
         - Grotte du Grand Roc
         - La Roque St-Christophe
         - Lascaux Show Caves

There are several websites that you may like to browse giving further information on caves in the region:

- Perigord dot com
- Showcaves

External websites offering information on the Dordogne:

- Virtual Guide around Perigord.

You may also be interested in visiting our section on the Lot which is within a day trip's reach from the Dordogne.
Chosen by our children:

     - Top Attractions in the Dordogne
     - Top ten Holiday destinations in France