Getting to the Gouffre de Padirac
Driving, the nearest stations, and how to reach Padirac from the Dordogne and beyond.
Padirac sits on the limestone causse of the Lot, north of the Dordogne valley. There is no convenient train to the site itself, so most international visitors arrive by car — here is how to plan the journey.
By car
Driving is by far the easiest way to reach Padirac. It is about 20 minutes from Rocamadour (15 km), 50 minutes from Brive-la-Gaillarde (50 km), an hour from Sarlat (55 km) and around two hours from Toulouse (190 km) via the A20 motorway. There is parking at the site.
By train and air
The nearest useful railway station is Brive-la-Gaillarde, with onward car hire or taxi for the final stretch; Brive also has a small airport. Padirac village has no station of its own.
For visitors without a car, an organised day tour from the Dordogne or a hire car for a few days exploring the region are the realistic options.
Frequently asked
Is there a train to Padirac?
Not directly — the nearest useful station is Brive-la-Gaillarde, about 50 minutes away by car, then taxi or hire car.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is parking at the site.