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StalagmiteBest Caves in the Pyrénées  As you might expect with so much water flowing down from the mountain tops, the Pyrénées has a wide range of cave complexes.  They are mainly concentrated in the lower reaches of the Pyrénées where one can find some real subterranean masterpieces!  They provide an excellent option for rainy days as the temperature will usually be around 13 degree C underground, whatever the weather outside!

Grottes de BétharramPartially accessible - it is possible for disabled visitors to visit in the morning, prior booking required.Grottes de Bétharram

Location: 15km west of Lourdes via the D937.

General Info: Website: www.betharram.com.  Tel: 05 62 41 80 04. Open daily from 9 – 5.30PM although they close for lunch. In July/Aug open from 9.00-18.00 with NO lunchtime closure.  €11 for an adult, €7 for children age 5-10 years.

Description:  These caves boast huge limestone deposits and waterfalls.  The tour lasts about 1 hour & 20 mins in total.
Our recommendations:
  Make sure you arrive well before lunchtime or closing time to ensure you have a relaxed trip.
For the children:  The visit is made more interesting for the family as part of the tour is made by boat (see above right) and part by train.

Our favourite caves in the Pyrénées:


         - Grottes de Bétharram
         - Grotte de Lombrives
         - Grottes de Médous
         - Grotte de Niaux


 

External websites offering information on the Pyrénées:

-
Pyrénées National Park official site.  Good site, including English, with advice for walking with the family and some suggested routes.
- Pyrénées Info Site.  Useful website on the Pyrénées (French only).
- Ariège - nice site on this beautiful area of the central Pyrénées.
- Argelès-Gazost - another useful website on the central Pyrénées area.
Chosen by our children:

     - Top Ten Holiday destinations in France