A combined geological–geomorphological analysis of the Païolive area, Ardèche, southern France, allows to discuss the extension, origin and chronology of the karst that affects late Jurassic limestone. Results point to paleo-surface abandonment, river incision and karst formation resulting from a late Miocene and pre-Messinian uplift of the area. The epigene karst does not extend below the present-day base level.