Grottes de Lombrives - Campsite ski resort Ax les Thermes

The Lombrive cave, one of the largest in Europe

It is exceptional for its gigantism. With its network of 39 km of galleries spread over 7 levels, it is the largest in Europe. Like its neighbours, the Niaux and Sabart caves, it opens into the Cap de la Lesse massif.

It has always served as refuge for menIt is said to have sheltered the Cathar bishop Amiel Aicard after the fall of Montségur. It is said to have sheltered the Cathar bishop Amiel Aicard after the fall of Montségur, as well as nobles during the French Revolution.

The cave has therefore been known for a very long time, as attested by the many signatures and other signs carved into the walls.

But it was not until 1822 that the Garrigou family, father and son and J-F Rambaud, began more extensive excavations and found a large number of human bones.

The visit

the Lombrives cave

The route reveals the history of the cave and its legends. It begins by crossing the Carène before continuing on the Faille. You then enter the crime passage which opens onto the largest room: the Amphitheatre, a natural stage where cultural events are organised to awaken the magic of the place within you.

A grand staircase leads you to the cemetery, the emblematic site of the Lombrives cave, where many bones were discovered; this was the burial place of early man.

You continue your visit along galleries decorated with unusual concretions before coming face to face with the Pyrene tomb.

According to Greek mythology, she is the origin of the Pyrenees. Finally, the lake awaits you with the strange movement of its waters. A number of tours and events are on offer

Information on the Lombrives caves website: https://www.grottedelombrives.com/

To visit the Lombrives cave, book a pitch at your La Marmotte campsite or a mobile home in Ariège.

Caves of Lombrives

The Lombrive cave, one of the largest in Europe

The visit