Carrière de la Rochefontaine, also known as Franchimont, is an old red marble quarry in Belgium that ceased operations in the 1980s. This unique dive site offers a fascinating underwater environment characterized by dramatic steep walls and a series of distinct plateaus found at depths of 22m, 26m, 36m, 40m, 43m, and 52m. The maximum recreational dive depth is specified as 33 meters. Underwater navigation often begins with an oblique plane gently descending from a depth of 4 to 6 meters, which can vary seasonally.
The quarry is a treasure trove of submerged industrial remnants, including a large crane, worker ladders, and lift nacelles, creating a surreal landscape. To further enhance its appeal, several objects have been intentionally placed, such as a 22-meter sailboat, a 9-meter tugboat positioned at 33 meters depth, another boat at 20 meters, and a smaller boat at 6 meters. Divers can also explore a Hawker Hunter fighter plane, a Porsche rear section, an anchor, and a car estimated at around 5 meters.
Resident aquatic life includes a variety of freshwater species like carp, roach, and perch, along with crayfish and small newts, particularly in crevices and along the quarry floor. The site is suitable for both scuba diving and freediving, with significant depth ranges available for training and exploration. Divers should be prepared for cold water, common in Belgian quarries, and understand the multi-level profile. Visibility is often better during colder months due to less algal bloom. The quarry can be reached by traveling from Brussels to Charleroi, following Philippeville on the N5 until Ciney, then continuing toward Givet. It is situated on the left side of the road after Villers-le-Gambon. Due to the presence of submerged objects, assessing current conditions before diving is advisable.
