Grottes Pétrifiantes Savonnières
Discover a natural wonder where water transforms everyday objects into stone, with a rich history tied to WWII resistance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Grottes Pétrifiantes Savonnières
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a natural wonder where water transforms everyday objects into stone, with a rich history tied to WWII resistance.
"Truly unique experience - loved learning about this place, from the connection with the famous Villandry, to being a transit area for the resistance during WWII."
Combine with Villandry
Visit before or after Villandry Castle for deeper historical context. :world_map:
Enjoy the Free Rosé
A complimentary glass of rosé wine is offered, a nice touch! :wine_glass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petrifying Formations
Throughout the caves
Witness the magical process of calcite coating everyday objects, creating unique, stone-like replicas.
WWII Resistance History
Designated areas
Discover the hidden history of these caves as a refuge for the French Resistance during World War II.
Artisanal Creations
Gift shop and display areas
See and purchase unique souvenirs crafted through the cave's natural petrification process.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Understand the Unique Process
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Villandry
Visit before or after Villandry Castle for deeper historical context. :world_map:
Enjoy the Free Rosé
A complimentary glass of rosé wine is offered, a nice touch! :wine_glass:
Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are passionate and informative; their explanations enhance the visit. :speech_balloon:
Unique Souvenirs
Find one-of-a-kind items created by the cave's natural calcification process. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Villandry
Visit before or after Villandry Castle for deeper historical context. :world_map:
Enjoy the Free Rosé
A complimentary glass of rosé wine is offered, a nice touch! :wine_glass:
Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are passionate and informative; their explanations enhance the visit. :speech_balloon:
Unique Souvenirs
Find one-of-a-kind items created by the cave's natural calcification process. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Grottes Pétrifiantes Savonnières a truly unique experience, praising the informative tours and the fascinating petrification process. While some note it can feel a bit commercialized, the value for money and the historical context, including its WWII significance, are frequently highlighted as positives. The guides' passion is often mentioned as a key factor in an enjoyable visit.
"Great trip.. a little commercialised but no hard sell on anything. Very informative tour and interesting, reference items coated in limestone sediment. Had a glass of complementary rosé wine. Entry was €7.50 which is value for money in my eyes. Very interesting gifts available"
Lee Wall
"Truly unique experience - loved learning about this place, from the connection with the famous Villandry, to being a transit area for the resistance during WWII, to the artisanal objects made from the chemical reaction with the cave's calcite... you won't find a visit like this anywhere in the world. I recommend to visit after or before Villandry, as it will give more meaning to the castle's history (although this is a really great stop all on its own).
Thanks also to our guide, who took the time to explain and answer questions - her passion for this place was obvious and made the visit all that much better."
Mon Nd
"Very average I'd have to say compared to other limestone caves I've seen. There were some very nice draperies but the caves aren't huge and they're not in a particularly natural state. The caves seem a bit like it's just a factory for making limestone trinkets.. And I still don't entirely understand what the roman grave things are about? It's unclear if they were found on site or if someone has moved these artifacts to the location they're now in..?"
Rachel M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The caves are located near Savonnières, easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. If coming from Tours, it's a short drive. Consider combining with visits to nearby châteaux like Villandry.
Public transport options are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the caves. Check local bus schedules, but be prepared for infrequent service. :bus:
From Tours, take the D943 towards Savonnières. The caves are well-signposted from the main road. The journey is typically under 30 minutes. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is approximately €7.50, which is considered good value for the unique experience offered. :euro:
Booking in advance is generally not required, especially outside peak season. However, for groups or during busy periods, it's advisable to check their official website. :computer:
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times. :clock:
Discounts may be available for children, students, or groups. Inquire directly with the attraction or check their website for specific offers. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour is relatively short, typically lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, providing a concise yet informative experience. :stopwatch:
Yes, the tours are guided by knowledgeable staff who share insights into the cave's geology and history. Their passion enhances the visit. :teacher:
It's a natural chemical reaction where calcite from the cave water coats objects, turning them into stone-like replicas over time. This creates unique formations. :sparkles:
The caves are natural formations, but the display of objects and their coating is a result of a controlled process utilizing the cave's unique mineral-rich water. :rock:
The caves served as a transit area for the French Resistance during WWII and have a connection to the history of nearby Villandry Castle. :shield:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants within the caves. However, a complimentary glass of rosé wine is often offered as part of the experience. :wine_glass:
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the cave tour area. It's best to consume them before or after your visit. :apple:
Yes, the nearby village of Savonnières and the surrounding areas offer several charming local restaurants and cafes. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the caves, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the formations and the experience for others. Always check for signage. :camerawithflash:
Focus on the unique petrified objects and the natural cave formations. The contrast between everyday items and their stone coating makes for striking images. :iphone:
Drone usage is typically prohibited at tourist attractions to ensure safety and respect for other visitors and the environment. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children more space to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The complimentary rosé for adults is a nice bonus, but ensure children have water. The gift shop offers unique souvenirs that can serve as lasting reminders of this unusual natural phenomenon. :family_child:
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy before or after your visit, as on-site dining is limited. Combining your trip with free or low-cost activities in the Loire Valley, like exploring charming villages or scenic drives, can create a fulfilling and affordable itinerary. :money_bag:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Stone
This natural process is harnessed to create unique artisanal objects. The caves showcase a variety of items, from small trinkets to more complex forms, all coated in the cave's signature calcite. It’s a testament to the power of natural chemistry and a unique selling point for the attraction. The guides often explain the science behind this transformation, making it an educational as well as a visually striking experience.
A Hidden History: WWII and Beyond
The connection to the famous Villandry Castle also adds historical depth. Visitors are encouraged to visit the caves either before or after exploring Villandry, as the caves' history can provide a more nuanced understanding of the region's past. This dual narrative – of natural wonder and human resilience – makes the Grottes Pétrifiantes Savonnières a compelling destination that offers more than just a visual spectacle.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit