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Thursday 28 March 2024

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Accessibility

A DETAILED ITINERARY FOR A SUCCESSFUL VISIT


The access to the site is not suitable for wheelchairs, please take note of the detailed route before your visit.


This section offers you an overview of the site accessibility at the Gouffre de Padirac, and allows you to organise your visit in the best way.

It contains information on the facilities and services offered to disabled visitors and / or visitors with special needs.

STEPS

Persons with mobility difficulties are advised to use the three lifts. However, there are 70 steps down to the underground river, 103 metres underground.
The gallery tour includes several sets of steps.
Access to the Salle du Grand Dôme involves 150 steps going up and 150 steps going down.

WAITING TIME

There may be a wait at the pier. Holders of invalidity cards (or pregnant ladies) can board the boat directly, occupy a bench set aside for them, and wait for their companions to embark.

However, the boat crossing can be done without taking the rest of the gallery tour.


We encourage pregnant ladies and persons with mobility difficulties to speak to staff and to pay close attention to the maps and information in order to assess their physical condition before starting their tour.


On the approach to the shaft, you can view several information panels that set out the history of the Gouffre de Padirac.


The tour trail is in a dark and damp environment that can be slippery. For that reason, it is not suitable for unaccompanied persons with vision problems. However, guide dogs and assistance dogs are welcome on site at the Gouffre de Padirac.

Before making your reservation (for groups or individuals), please contact us so that we can give you the best possible advice (conditions, preferable times, etc.):
+33 (0)5 65 33 77 37
 resa@gouffre-de-padirac.com

SITE

The topography of the natural terrain that forms the cavity means that the tour trail cannot be adapted for persons with a high level of motor disability. In addition, it is inaccessible to strollers, manual wheelchairs, and electric wheelchairs.

However, several areas are accessible:

  • The Entrance Pavilion
    Accessible via a user-operated lift for persons with reduced mobility. An intercom is available to request assistance.
  • The toilets, the Reception Hall, and the Shop-Bookshop are also Accessible.
  • The Auberge du Gouffre
    Restaurant terrace and dining room accessible via the access ramp provided.
  • The Gouffre Gardens
    Accessible via a natural route (not smooth, but with an acceptable slope) on the eastern edge of the park.

PARKING

Adapted parking spaces close to the entrance to the EntrancePavilion (signposted route).

WC

Adapted toilets are directly accessed from the toilet block of the Entrance Pavilion.