The Maxange CaveIn the Dordogne valley, the site is surprising in many ways.
It starts with its history, which is not an ordinary one.
The discovery of the Maxange cave
In 1984, Angel Caballero decided to take over the family business, a stone quarry opened by his father Maximilien in 1960 in the commune of Le Buisson de Cadouin. 16 years later, in 2000, Angel sees a strange fault in the cliff. He doesn't know it yet but this fault will change his life and that of his family.
After a few weeks of hesitation, he decides to infiltrate this mysterious hole. After only a few meters of difficult progression, a breathtaking gallery is offered to his eyes. It's August 15, 2000.
On the other hand also by their exceptional diversity in concretions: Stalactites, stalagmites, numerous panels of aragonite covering entire walls, fistulas of an extreme finesse are there.
But what stands out is the unique profusion of rare, so-called "eccentric" crystals, which literally defy the laws of gravity. Usually observed in small quantities, they can be seen in the Maxange cave in thousands over a distance of almost 90 metres.
After a long reflection, Angel decides to do everything to make this place unique accessible to all. But turning a career into a home site to the public is not an easy task.
It will take almost two years to build the exteriors and make the interior accessible.
In 2009, a new gallery was opened to visitors but not everything has been explored and we like to think that new discoveries are to come.
In 2013, the state decided to classify the cave for its geological and picturesque character and the Michelin guide awarded it two stars.
Today, the Maxange cave is a site that delights young and old alike and is recognised as one of the most beautiful concretion caves in France.
Angel Caballero decided to name the cave Maxange In remembrance of his father who started the quarry, indeed, the contraction of Maximilian, his father's first name and his.
The visit of the cave and practical information
The visits are accompanied by a guide who will explain the discovery of the cave but also its geology, the formation of the galleries and concretions and many anecdotes. The visit to the Maxange cave lasts 40 minutes. The temperature in the cave is 13°C.
On site you will be able to enjoy a bar with a shaded terrace, children will have access to a playground.
The shop in the reception hall will offer you a whole collection of minerals in different forms: rough stones, polished stones and jewellery. You will also find a whole range of souvenirs from the Périgord.
La Grotte de Maxange was last modified: January 10th, 2023 by maxange
