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Troglodyte Caves & Rocks, Cotignac

Majestic rock that towers over the town of Cotignac

featured in Sights & sites

Towering an incredible 80 metres above ground this rock face is home to numerous crevices and cave dwellings.

At some point during the last two million years, the River Cassole flowed over the rock face and formed the petrified waterfalls and cave dwellings that attract visitors to the site today. Originally the village was situated right at the base of this huge waterfall so these caves served as shelters for both residents and their animals. However, in more recent years the river was diverted so that it now turns to the east of the village and flows into the Argens.

The rock face is 400m wide but there is a short, steep (and pretty hairy!) climb through some of the grottos to the top where you will find a splendid viewpoint over the village and surrounding area near the Saracen Towers ("les tours arrasines").

Entry fee: €2 and guided visits are available

Watch out for

Short, steep and slightly hair raising climb to the top of the cliff face, through narrow passageways and up a spiral staircase. Not for sufferers of vertigo!

When to come

The caves are open to public throughout Spring and Summer.

April / May-June / September: 14:30 to 17:30 daily
Tuesday, Sunday and public holidays: 10:00 to 12:00 / 14:30 to 17:30.
July-August: every day from 10:00 to 13:00 / 15:00 to 19:00.

Location

Map of the surrounding area