The Gouffre de Padirac plunges adventurers into a hidden realm of vast chambers and a flowing subterranean river. EasyJet’s Traveler magazine praises this extraordinary cavern as a marvel of geology and mystery, inviting explorers to descend into the heart of France’s underground wonders.

In the Dordogne region, right in the middle of France, at the edge of a huge national park, is an entrance to the centre of the Earth. That’s how it might feel when you’re gazing into the Padirac cave, one of the largest chasms in Europe, and a geological wonder that has to be seen to be believed. But the hole is just the beginning — once inside, take a boat ride along the 100m-deep river and check out the spectacular limestone rock formations twisting and dripping above the eerily still ‘Rain Lake’. “You must go in without fear,” said Édouard-Alfred Martel, 19th-century explorer of the caves — “who knows what surprises await you.” You first, then…

To visit Gouffre de Padirac, fly into Toulouse, about 1.5 hours away, or take a train to Gramat or Rocamadour-Padirac stations, followed by a short taxi ride. Toulouse is the best access point, with direct flights and scenic connections.