Discover the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur – The Hidden Emerald of the Dordogne Valley

Just a short drive from Camping Le Séquoia, on the border between the Dordogne and the Lot, lies one of southwest France’s most peaceful natural wonders: the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur.
This hidden gem, surrounded by lush forest and limestone cliffs, marks the resurgence of the Ouysse River — a mysterious spring where crystal-clear water rises from the depths of the earth.

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines nature, tranquility, and a touch of mystery, this is one of the most breathtaking spots to visit during your stay in the Dordogne Valley.

🌿 A Secret World Beneath the Hills

The Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur is part of an impressive underground river system that stretches for kilometres beneath the Causse de Gramat, a limestone plateau typical of the Lot region.
The river Ouysse disappears into the ground at Thémines and travels silently beneath the landscape before re-emerging at Saint-Sauveur — a journey that scientists believe covers nearly 40 kilometres of submerged tunnels.

When the river resurfaces, it forms an enchanting emerald-green pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks and overhanging trees.
On sunny days, light filters through the leaves, turning the water turquoise and the whole area into a scene that feels almost otherworldly.

It’s a place where nature reigns supreme — quiet, timeless, and absolutely captivating.

A Natural Wonder of the Ouysse

The Saint-Sauveur sinkhole is not a traditional cave open for tours but a natural resurgence, where the underground river returns to the surface.
It’s one of several such sites in the area, along with the Gouffre de Cabouy, just a short walk upstream.
Together, these two sites form one of the most beautiful geological areas in the Lot, part of the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park.

The pool of Saint-Sauveur is about 25 metres wide, and its depths are still being explored by professional cave divers. Some explorations have recorded depths of more than 180 metres, revealing vast submerged galleries hidden below the surface.

For visitors, it’s a reminder of how powerful — and mysterious — nature can be.

🚶 Hiking to the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur

Reaching the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur is an adventure in itself.
You can only access it on foot, following a peaceful forest trail that also leads to the Gouffre de Cabouy.

🥾 Recommended Route

Start your walk from the small parking area near Calès, a charming village about 30 minutes from Sarlat and 20 minutes from Camping Le Séquoia.
The loop trail (Boucle des Gouffres de Cabouy et Saint-Sauveur) takes around 1½ to 2 hours at a relaxed pace.

Along the way, you’ll pass through shaded woodlands, cross small streams, and follow the course of the Ouysse River, which occasionally disappears underground before returning to daylight.

The path is well-marked and easy to follow, but it can be slippery after rain — so wear good walking shoes and bring water.

When you reach the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur, take a moment to stop and listen: the gentle sound of water bubbling up from the earth, the rustle of the leaves, the birdsong — it’s pure serenity.

The Hidden Depths – For Cave Divers Only

While the site is open to visitors, diving is not permitted for the public.
The underground network connected to Saint-Sauveur is part of one of Europe’s most complex karst systems, explored only by professional speleologists and cave divers.

These experts have mapped more than 40 kilometres of submerged passages between Thémines, Cabouy, and Saint-Sauveur. The caves connect several sinkholes and resurgences, forming a unique hydrological system that scientists still study today.

Even from the surface, knowing what lies beneath makes the experience even more fascinating — a glimpse into the secret world beneath the Causses du Quercy.

🏕️ Stay at Camping Le Séquoia – Your Ideal Base for Exploration

Located just outside Sarlat-la-Canéda, Camping Le Séquoia is perfectly situated for exploring the Lot and Dordogne valleys — including Rocamadour, the Grottes de Lacave, and of course, the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur.

After a day of hiking and discovery, return to your peaceful base in nature:

🌊 Relax in our heated swimming pool

🍽️ Enjoy a drink or dinner on the terrace of our bar-restaurant

🏕️ Unwind in a spacious pitch or fully equipped mobile home

👨‍👩‍👧 Let the kids play safely while you watch the sunset over the valley

💫 As a bonus, our guests receive exclusive local discounts on nearby attractions, including the Grottes de Lacave.

🌄 Combine Nature & Discovery

For nature lovers, the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur and Gouffre de Cabouy offer a wonderful contrast to the region’s more famous tourist sites.
They’re peaceful, wild, and deeply connected to the landscape of the Dordogne Valley.

It’s the perfect complement to canoeing on the river, visiting medieval villages, or relaxing under the trees at Camping Le Séquoia.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

A natural resurgence where the underground Ouysse River returns to the surface, forming a turquoise pool surrounded by forest.

Yes — it’s accessible by a marked hiking trail starting near Calès. The walk is suitable for most visitors.

No, swimming and diving are prohibited to protect the site and for safety reasons.

Absolutely! Children love the short hike and the magical scenery. Just be cautious near the water’s edge.

Combine your visit with the Gouffre de Cabouy, Rocamadour, or the Grottes de Lacave — all within easy reach of Camping Le Séquoia.

✨ A Hidden Treasure Worth the Walk

The Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur isn’t a place you stumble upon — it’s a place you discover.
Quiet, pristine, and full of natural wonder, it captures the essence of what makes the Lot and Dordogne region so special.

So lace up your walking shoes, bring your camera, and set out for one of the most beautiful hidden spots in southwest France.

👉 Book your stay at Camping Le Séquoia and make the Gouffre de Saint-Sauveur part of your Dordogne adventure!