AVEN ARMAND

The Armand cave is named after the man who discovered it in 1887, Louis Armand. He was then accompanied by two other cavers: Edouard-Alfred Martel and Armand Viré. Imagine their emotion when, clinging to a rope ladder, by the light of a torch, they discovered this forest of 400 stalagmites that they compared to a "dream of a thousand and one nights"! Aven Armand is an exceptional site, one of the most beautiful caves in France, underground for thirty million years. Located under the Méjean limestone plateaus, in Hures-la-Parade, between Meyrueis and Sainte-Enimie, it is a treasure of nature often nicknamed "forest of stalagmites". Before its discovery, this chasm was associated with various legends: for example, it was accused of swallowing travelers or herds that had gotten lost in the area! Today, it is with joy that many visitors rush into the Aven Armand! It is necessary to say that the 400 stalagmites which compose this so particular forest give to the place a unique charm. We even discover the biggest stalagmite in the world and it culminates at 30 m height!

Located in the middle of the room, it is particularly noticeable when you admire the panorama from the belvedere at the arrival. Researchers have determined that this impressive stalagmite is between 300 000 and 400 000 years old.

L'aven Armand is a single room with dimensions comparable to those of a cathedral: 110 m long, 60 m wide and 45 m high! With its ochre walls and its transparent stalagmites, it offers a natural decoration of a rare beauty. Moreover, its illumination does it particular honor. Between fiction and reality, a sound and light show called "Journey to the Center of the Earth", from the universe of Jules Verne, has been set up and magnifies the place. But why Jules Verne? It is said that Edouard-Alfred Martel enjoyed reading the works of the writer before exploring the caves of the underground world, so it is a tribute to one of those who penetrated for the first time the Aven Armand that is here rendered, between fiction and reality. The interior of the cave is accessible thanks to a well thought out funicular. The journey then begins at the Speleo Station, active since 1963, which is located in a post-modern style building. This is where you will find the ticket office, but also a souvenir store. In the hall of the station, take a break to discover the exhibition that goes through the history of caving in the region and the videos that will make you discover the Cevennes. The funicular offers a unique experience, a one and a half minute trip to the center of the earth! Mounted on tires in order to avoid any vibrations that could be harmful to the stalagmites, this little rack train is part of the association of 19 funiculars in France. Inside the cave, the visit continues on foot and the stairs lead you to a depth of 110 m. From the beginning, a belvedere offers a unique view on the whole room and its numerous giant stalagmites. Thanks to a well-designed path, a well-designed lighting and dynamic guides, the visit of this naturally spectacular place is even more memorable! The Eiffel family has been a member of the board of directors of the Aven Armand for a long time and has particularly contributed to the development of its tour: since its opening at the end of the 20's, the Aven Armand already benefited from a lighting installation showing a great technique for the time.

Several types of visits are possible at the Aven Armand. In addition to the Jules Verne tour mentioned above, there is also the possibility to privatize the cave for a VIP visit. Alone or in a small group, you will discover the Aven Armand in a different light, in a complete silence, with a lighting system that is activated as you progress. A privilege that lasts 1h30. Private visits are also organized, a guide accompanies you to discover the cave, alone or in group. >Finally, if you wish to see the Aven Armand like real cavers, professional instructors will accompany you during a safe descent of the natural shaft by rope. This activity is accessible from 12 years old.

To eat, don't hesitate to stop at the Speleo Café to taste caussenard specialities ! The menu favors short circuits, producers and local products. Among the specialities to discover, let's mention the ficelle. This tasty sandwich filled with local cheeses and/or charcuterie is made in front of you. The bakery is located 6 km away, the cheese factory 2 km away, so it is a typical caussenard delicacy that you will taste! We also like the boards to share, the aligot sausage and the selection of desserts. For dessert, the gourmets will certainly succumb to the flaune, a typical cake made with ewe's milk. It is a very good place to have a break before or after the visit of one of the most beautiful caves in France!

After the Aven Armand, you can continue your trip on the Méjean limestone plateaus to discover its menhirs: on the ground too, Lozere reserves you beautiful surprises! A little before arriving at the Aven Armand, you can see the dolmen of the "tomb of the giants" which would be the tomb of Gargantua!