In the caves of La Balme one can look back on a long history: Various archaeological finds indicate that the caves were already inhabited by people at the end of the Bronze Age. Later, in the 9th and 14th centuries, two chapels were built at its entrance. During the 18th century, rumors spread that a famous French smuggler was hiding in the grotto. Visitors can explore the caves on their own along a paved path about a kilometer long. Guided tours are also available on request.

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Thomas 🚲🥾

August 18, 2024

Cycling

Information in German: balconsdudauphine-tourisme.com/de/equipement/les-grottes-de-la-balme

Website (French): grotteslabalme.com

Also closed on certain days, information in the calendar: grotteslabalme.com/organisation/les-horaires-calendrier

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MimiJ

July 2, 2025

Road cycling

Cool during the heatwave while visiting the caves

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Routes here

Best routes to La Balme Caves

4.6

(84)

541

riders

1. View of the Saut du Rhône – View of Vertrieu castle loop from Mépieu

84.4km

04:58

380m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.6

(96)

794

riders

2. Ain/Rhône confluence – Jonage Canal and Grand Large loop from Laurent Bonnevay - Astroballe

105km

06:23

520m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.3

(3)

riders

3. View of Vertrieu castle – View of the Saut du Rhône loop from Saint-Baudille-de-la-Tour

65.6km

04:06

480m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Details

Informations

Elevation 270 m

Weather

Wednesday 4 February

11°C

3°C

-- %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: -- km/h

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Location: La Balme-Les-Grottes, La Tour-Du-Pin, Auvergne Rhône Alpes, France

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View of Château de Vertrieu

La Balme Caves

1. View of the Saut du Rhône – View of Vertrieu castle loop from Mépieu

2. Ain/Rhône confluence – Jonage Canal and Grand Large loop from Laurent Bonnevay - Astroballe

3. View of Vertrieu castle – View of the Saut du Rhône loop from Saint-Baudille-de-la-Tour

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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