The Grottes and Canyon of Saulges are an amazing place to visit. There are 2 underground caves with a spectacular display of stalacmites and stalactites (it’s the tites that come down by the way!). When you consider that it takes between 100 and 1000 years for 1cm of one of these calcified ‘fingers’ to grow and many of them are over 1m – it’s mind boggling to do the maths. Part of the site is still an on-going archeological excavation, revealing remains of prehistoric man, and there are still vestiges of cave paintings.
La Grotte de Rochefort will leave you breathless – literally. You descend 17m and are ultimately 35m below ground level. This cave tests your flexibility as you duck, dive (and breathe in!) to follow the trail. Beware the ‘Giant’s hand’, a gnarled stalagmite that reaches out as if to grab you! Your reward for reaching the bottom is a view of a luminous lake whose crystal waters shelter tiny albino shrimp.
Heading towards the light as you emerge from the cave, it is impossible not to be enchanted by your surroundings. In this sheltered hollow the less energetic can chill-out by the pretty stream.
There are tons of activities for kids seeking challenges and adventures! There’s rock climbing and also the possibility to show-off your muscles as you swing among the tree-tops from a web of climbing ropes.
Perfect picnic spots overlook the river. If you are looking for a gourmet experience at a reasonable price, try ‘Le Canyon’ restaurant on the site. The setting is lovely and the food is gorgeous!
The staff are charming. From the ticket office to the tour guide, everyone is smiling and helpful. There is information in English and help is always on hand. The only difficulty is saying ‘goodbye’……

For more information: Grottes de Saulges

 Sam's Scoop

The visit is perfect for groups and even events. There is catering at Le Canyon restaurant and there is a lovely traditional gîte on site that sleeps 17 – great for a big party or even a wedding!

For more information: http://www.grottes-de-saulges.com/gite.htm