Underground caves to be ranked among the wonders of the world. Padirac's astonis hing gorge ("gouffre") gives access 103 meters below ground level to a mysterious river along which the visitor may travel by boat to discover the glittering "Lac de la Pluie" (Lake of Rain) above which is suspended a colossal stalactite, and further on the immense domed chamber whose vault rises to a eight of 94 meters, and whose wonders include a lake situated a third of the way up its phenomenal height. A vertiginous path gives access to all parts of this chamber and offers the visitor a breathtaking view over the lake and the river. The return to the entrance is made once more by boat. After passing through the galleries, the visitor may if he wishes use the lifts which will spare him the 455 steps to the surface. He may return thus without fatigue to the Causse where there is an attractive zoological garden. |