Caving discovery: "Faux monnayeurs" cave (Doubs)

Description

Let's go caving together in the famous cave of the counterfeiters near Mouthier-Haute-Pierre between Besançon and Pontarlier. You will spend a timeless moment cut off from the outside world in this cave that is one of the most beautiful in the Jura massif.

A cavers' paradise and a major Bronze Age site in the Doubs department, this cave owes its name to the many coins that have been found there, the remains, according to legend, of a former gang of counterfeiters who had taken up residence there. Artefacts from all eras have been found in the cave, the oldest dating back to the Neolithic period. You will also discover very ancient fossils.

After dressing and a ten-minute approach walk, a metal ladder leads to the entrance of the cave, set in an imposing cliff in the Nouailles gorges. After passing through the wide entrance porch, the itinerary consists of a several-hundred-meter-long underground traverse, with galleries of varying sizes, a short pool to cross (with water up to your knees), amazing geological phenomena and a beautiful 25-metre-high abseil (not mandatory) to finish on a high note!

This outing is an ideal introduction to caving. The route is perfectly suited to families (accessible to children aged 8 and over).

Equipment to bring:

• Closed-toe, notched, flexible shoes (high-toe if possible).
• Soft sports trousers or running-type tights.
• A light micro-fleece jumper.
• Something to tie back long hair.
• A change of clothes and shoes in the car.

 

If you fancy other underground adventures in the Doubs department, I also offer:

• a half-day of vertical caving in Ordons chasm near Montrond-le-Chateau,
• a day of water caving in Vau cave in Vuillafans,
• and an introduction to caving in the Cavottes cave.

Program

• Meet in the Loue valley at the cave parking lot, about 20 minutes' drive from Pontarlier and 45 minutes from Besançon.
• Suit up and get dressed with the appropriate equipment.
• 10-minute walk to the cave entrance.
• Exploration of the "faux monnayeurs" cave.
• 15-minute return walk to the parking lot.
• In all, approximately 3 hours of activity.

The price includes

• Supervision by the caving instructor.
• Caving wetsuit (please state your height and weight when registering).
• Helmet and LED lighting.
• Harness, with lanyards and delay device if necessary.
• Collective equipment (ropes, karabiners, anchors, backpacks, water bottles, first-aid kit, etc.).

The price does not include

• Return transport to Mouthier-Haute-Pierre.
• Snacks.
• Drinks.
• Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".

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