Voyage at the Gouffre de Padirac
MANY OF OUR CLOSE FRIENDS marveled at how Martine & I spent 17 years living aboard, our sailing yacht, Walkabout (some thought we were crazy … but hey, we loved the lifestyle!). Over the years our passion for being on the water gave us the opportunity to experience all sorts of nautical adventures around the world from Antarctica to the South Pacific.
But … the possibility of a little voyage down a river deep underground was something never imagined by us before moving into this special region of southwestern France. Just a little over a mile from Rancho Escargot is probably one of the most unique boating experiences we’ve ever encountered. The Gouffre de Padirac provides a spectacular entrance to a network of rivers about 300 feet underground and the opportunity to take a little cruise of about 1.5 nautical miles through a beautiful grotto and cave network.
The view up from the base of the Gouffre's main chasm gives you the sense that you are begining a journey to the center of the earth. Then, you continue to decend another 100 feet underground to the boats below!
Here is a link to more information about this incredible natural wonder: Gouffre de Padirac 360˚
It's certainly a must do when visiting us. Bon Voyage! à bientôt, Jack
I have to say, that picture, looking up out of the hole, is cool, gives me vertigo, but still pretty darn cool.
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So much enjoyed this information. I am traveling to Provence in Sept. would love to see this place. Where exactly is it located? would really appreciate this information. Looking forward to reading more on your blog. Tracey
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