Grotte de Maxange

A recent and fortunate discovery

A brand new cave in the Périgord… Only 60 million years old!

Just a short distance from Sarlat, the Maxange cave is full of unexpected wonders that will leave you amazed. Discovered by pure chance in 2000, this remarkable cave stands out not only for its relatively recent unearthing but also for the extraordinary geological treasures it holds.

Shock of the Old

In the year 2000, on August 15, Angel Caballero, a quarry operator at the site, stumbled upon this amazing cave entirely by chance.

One day, he noticed a crack in the rock that, against all odds, led him to the breath-taking discovery below. After careful consideration, he and his family made the decision to develop the site and open it to the public. Following two years of hard work, they transformed the cave into a fascinating visit.
Today, the Maxange cave proudly holds two stars in the Michelin Guide, reflecting the outstanding experience it provides.

As you descend, you’ll step into a remarkable underground world shaped by nature’s artistry over millennia. Stunning crystallizations, known as ‘eccentrics’ have formed over thousands of years, and offer a truly unique spectacle.

Enhanced by atmospheric lighting, a visit through this magical, otherworldly environment is a captivating experience. More than just a tour—it’s a journey into the heart of some of the Earth’s most extraordinary natural creations.

Alien Eccentrics

These formations have serious personalities!

Dating back an impressive 60 million years, the Maxange cave is a geological wonder. Since its discovery, it has earned the prestigious classification of a National Heritage Site. What truly sets it apart is the rarity and originality of its rock ormations.

While most caves feature the more common stalactites, stalagmites, and draperies, Maxange is renowned for its remarkable ‘eccentric” concretions —limestone formations that seem to defy the laws of gravity.
Incredibly rare and unlike anything you’ve likely seen, these fascinating shapes twist, spiral, and curve in directions that boggle the mind, as if nature itself took a creative leap.

These rare eccentric formations, which grow in seemingly impossible directions, are present in Maxange literally by the thousands. Stretching across nearly 90 metres of the cave, these fascinating alien shapes appear from the walls and ceilings, creating a mesmerizing display of delicate intricacy, and dazzling, crystal-like purity form as if frozen in motion.

The tour lasts about 40 minutes, packed with insights and discoveries. Be sure to bring warm clothing, as the cave maintains a constant temperature of 13°C year-round.

As you explore, a knowledgeable guide will be by your side, unveiling the secrets of the Maxange cave. You’ll learn about its fascinating geology, how the stunning galleries were formed, and the origin of its exceptional concretions. Your guide will also share the captivating story of the cave’s discovery, along with intriguing anecdotes that bring the cave’s history to life. You’ll have plenty of time to pause and soak in the breathtaking beauty of nature’s handiwork.

Visiting Information

The site is open from April to early November. In July and August, daily tours start from 9 am to 7 pm. To skip the summer crowds, it is highly recommended to book online for a hassle-free experience.

An on-site bar offers a selection of refreshments as well as pizzas, paninis and other tasty treats.

Boasting 2 stars in the Michelin Guide, the owners proudly proclaim that the Maxange cave is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Périgord region.