Discovery
Which cave to visit in Ardèche? Choose according to your group
The choice depends first of all on what you want to see: prehistoric works restored at Chauvet 2, or a natural cavity in Saint-Marcel, Orgnac and la Madeleine. With children or loved ones bothered by stairs, start with the route before comparing prices.
What changes from one site to another
| Website | What we visit | Point to prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Chauvet 2, in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc | Replica of the decorated cave and spaces dedicated to prehistory | Guided niche; site accessible to strollers and wheelchairs according to its FAQ |
| Saint-Marcel, entry to Bidon | Natural rooms and gour pools | 416 total steps; route not wheelchair accessible |
| Aven d'Orgnac | Cave and City of Prehistory | 700 steps down, up in elevator; partial accessibility to be specified on the site |
| Madeleine, in Saint-Remèze | Natural cave on the gorge tourist route | Conditions of the route and guided departure to check before purchasing |
The official pages are collected in the sources of this article.
Chauvet 2 for prehistoric paintings
The original cave is closed to the public: it is its replica that you visit. The Aurignacian Gallery completes the guided tour. Stay about half a day on site and prepare for your arrival with our practical guide Chauvet 2.
As of October 6 2026, the day ticket is displayed at 18 € per adult, 9 € for 10–17 years and free before 10 years. The slot is reserved directly with the site.
Saint-Marcel or Orgnac for a natural cave
To Saint-Marcel, the landmark to remember is the staircase, as well as the entrance located in Bidon. The visit arrangements and the ticket office specify the conditions of the chosen formula. Our Saint-Marcel guide details the journey and preparations.
To Orgnac, the Grand Site Pass combines the cave and the City of Prehistory: 16,50 € per adult, 11 € for 6–17 years and free before 6 years, prices consulted on 6 October 2026. The elevator ride does not make the entire route accessible: ask for the possibilities according to the needs of the group.
Warm clothing remains useful: the sites advertise 14 °C in Saint-Marcel and 12 °C in Orgnac. For hot periods, also think about journeys and outdoor spaces; an underground visit does not exempt you from preparing the rest of the day.
La Madeleine during an outing on the gorge road
The Madeleine can be placed on the same day as the lookouts, near Saint-Remèze. Check out his timetables and prices, then choose the guided departure which leaves time for stops along the way.
In rainy weather, also check the opening and the route. The guide to outings in the rain offers other options if places or conditions are not suitable.
One visit is enough for the day
Leave time for lunch and return to your gîte in Saint-Montan. A second cave on the same day adds a route and a new guided departure; It is better to choose the one that corresponds to the group.
The Mas swimming pool is outdoor and generally opens from mid-May to September depending on the weather. To organize the stay around your dates, write to Pascale.
Practical questions
Which cave to choose with a stroller?
The Chauvet 2 FAQ announces a site accessible to strollers, replica included. Natural caves have their own staircase constraints: check the conditions of each before purchasing.
Does an elevator ride make Orgnac fully accessible?
No. The classic route has 700 steps to descend. The site offers partial access methods: contact it to find out what corresponds to the needs of the group.