Seythenex cave and waterfall

Visit to the Seythenex cave and waterfall

It has been open to visitors since 1906, and offers 250 metres of galleries to discover on an underground path punctuated by footbridges. The geological interest of the Seythenex cave is immense. The different calcite strata can be seen. The typical “keyhole” formation of the gutters bears witness to the way in which the waters have shaped these underground galleries, first digging circular conduits and then eroding the rock downwards when the water no longer completely fills the galleries. A guided tour of the cave takes around 35 minutes.

The Seythenex waterfall is another natural gem to be discovered on the site. The waterfall is that of the Saint Ruph, a torrent that rises on the Col d’Orgeval and flows into Lake Annecy. At 45 metres in height, it offers a breathtaking spectacle. Below, the tumultuous waters of the stream form sublime giant potholes before continuing their descent towards the lake. A guided tour of the site is offered, as well as a zip-line flight: an unforgettable experience in an exceptional natural setting, 40 meters high and 150 meters long.

The Seythenex cave and waterfall site also features a projection room showing a documentary film on the daily life of the region’s inhabitants in centuries gone by. You can also admire a scale model reproducing the village and hamlet landscape, with its old houses, craftsmen’s workshops, water mills on the Saint-Ruph and the millstones they powered.

Practical information

The site is open to visitors from mid-April to mid-September. The terrace features a bar and snack bar, ideal for relaxing with a panoramic view of the Aravis mountain range. There’s also a souvenir store and picnic tables. The grotto and waterfall are located at 576 route des Grottes in Seythenex, 15 minutes (or 11 km) from the l’Idéal campsite. Individual rates for guided tours are 8 euros for adults and 6 euros for children aged 4 to 12. Admission is free for children under 4. In July and August, the site is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (departure time of last visit). From April to June and in September, it can also be visited daily, but the last departure is at 5:00 pm. Groups must book in advance. Nearby, in the Haute Savoie department in the Auvergne Rhône Alpes region, you can go hiking at the Chère rock or hiking in the heart of the Massif des Bauges regional nature park, canyoning in a canyon, snowshoeing, downhill skiing or stream fishing around Lake Annecy. Don’t forget to take a stroll by the lake!