The Labouiche underground river in the heart of the Ariège region

TheAriège region of the Pyrenees is a land of caves, caverns, chasms and natural wonders. 6 km from Foix, in the commune of Baulou, the Labouiche underground river offers an unusual journey into the bowels of the Earth. This nature reserve, part of the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises, is home to a wealth of geological treasures. Your Les Grottes à Alliat campsite will take you on a tour of this impressive underground river, just a few kilometers from Tarascon-sur-Ariège.

Journey to the center of the Earth

It’s well known that the Ariège is one of France’s richest departments in terms of caves. Embark with a guide 60 meters underground and discover superb gours – natural water reservoirs with sumptuous colors – impressive stalactites and stalagmites, strangely shaped concretions and a waterfall! It’s an edifying sight! You won’t know where to look, such is the beauty of this geological gem sculpted over thousands of years. The entrance to the cave is via a tunnel and a staircase of almost 200 steps that lead you into the depths. With a daily temperature of 13°C, day and night, summer and winter, it’s a good idea to bring a little wool and closed shoes. The emotion you’ll feel as you gaze upon this fantastic setting of limestone rocks adorned with evocatively shaped concretions will make you forget your everyday life…

A little history…

Discovered in 1908, the Labouiche underground river forms a long cavity which in fact conceals a prehistoric site dating back to the Magdalenian period. As in the Niaux and Mas d’Azil caves, a variety of objects have been found, including flint weapons and reindeer antlers. The explorers who discovered the site at the beginning of the last century provided access to this as-yet undiscovered network of underground galleries and rivers. The 3.8 km underground network features 5 levels of galleries, tributaries, avens (sinkholes), siphons (fully submerged underground conduits) and even a waterfall!

Other original discoveries in the region

Ten kilometers from the Labouiche site, take a stroll to Pont du Diable. A breathtaking natural site with the remains of a bridge! Also nearby, discover Les Forges de Pyrène. An educational and entertaining site onAriège‘s industrial past. Ready for a walk or bike ride? The day before or the day after your visit, take the voie verte from Foix to Saint-Girons. It’s 44 km of breathtaking scenery for the whole family to enjoy!