In the Ariege, in the heart of Pyrenees, in one of the French departments the richest in caves, please , discover Labouiche's subterranean river, classified site. Situated in 6 km of Foix, on the secondary road D1, Labouiche's subterranean river is opened to the public since 1938.

In 1908, the Doctor Dunac begins the exploitations. The company is pursued from 1909 till 1912 by the Doctor Cremadells and A.E. Martel. And in 1935, thanks to the perseverance of Misters Salette and Cremadells, assisted by Norbert Casteret and Joseph Delteil, 3 800 m of active network are bare.

From 1940 till 1943, Louis Medoc makes archaeological searches(researches) in the superior galleries of the river. Vestiges of time Gallo-Romaine and of a prehistoric magdalénien environment are so brought to light.

One can reach the river by the superior entrance(entry) situated in border of the secondary road D1, or by the lower entrance(entry) said about " Fajal ", after a progress on foot.

The tourist, driven(guided) and commented visit, is made in boat, indifferently in both senses(directions), in 60 m underground on average on a route(course) of 1 500 m (temperature 13 °).

The guests have at their arrangement a reception centre with counter of sale recollections, a parking, an area of picnic, a snack bar and a refreshment room. Information, booking and schedules visits with the Subterranean River of Labouiche.

Credit text and photos (D. Dumons): advertising Plaque " Subterranean River of Labouiche "