Underground lake inside Cuevas del Drach, Mallorca
Explore Spain Underground

A Guide to the Most Breathtaking Caves and Grottos in Spain

From ancient painted chambers in Cantabria to illuminated underground lakes in Mallorca, Spain holds some of the most remarkable subterranean landscapes in Europe. Discover what lies beneath.

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Remarkable Caves Worth Visiting

Spain is home to over 10,000 catalogued caves, many shaped by millions of years of geological activity. These three destinations stand out for their beauty, accessibility, and historical significance.

Lake Martel inside Cuevas del Drach with stalactites and reflections
Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Cuevas del Drach

Four interconnected chambers stretching over 1,200 metres, Cuevas del Drach shelters Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world. Visitors can enjoy classical music concerts performed on illuminated boats drifting across its still waters.

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Stalactites and stalagmites inside Cueva de Nerja
Malaga, Andalusia

Cueva de Nerja

Discovered by chance in 1959, the Nerja cave system spans nearly five kilometres and contains what is believed to be the tallest column formation in the world. Its natural amphitheatre hosts annual music and dance festivals each summer.

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Underground river inside Coves de Sant Josep, Valencia
Castellon, Valencia

Coves de Sant Josep

Navigate Europe's longest accessible underground river by boat through a cave system that has drawn human visitors for over 15,000 years. Magdalenian rock art near the entrance speaks to the cave's deep history, while the constant 20 degrees Celsius temperature makes it comfortable year-round.

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Practical Tips for Cave Visitors in Spain

Whether you are an experienced speleologist or a first-time visitor, these recommendations will help you prepare for a comfortable and rewarding underground experience.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Most tourist caves in Spain have paved walkways, but surfaces can be damp and slippery. Sturdy shoes with non-slip soles are strongly recommended for all visitors regardless of fitness level.

Book Ahead in Peak Season

Spain's most visited caves, especially in summer months from June through September, can reach capacity by midday. Purchasing tickets online in advance is the best way to secure your preferred time slot.

Temperature Inside Caves

Underground environments in Spain maintain a constant temperature, typically between 14 and 20 degrees Celsius. Even during hot summer days, bring a light jacket or sweater for your comfort inside.

A Land Shaped by Geology

The Iberian Peninsula sits on some of the oldest limestone formations in Western Europe. Over millions of years, water has carved an extraordinary network of underground galleries, rivers, and chambers beneath Spain's surface.

Spain ranks among the top five countries worldwide for the number and diversity of accessible show caves. The country's varied geology, from the karst landscapes of Cantabria and Andalusia to the volcanic tubes of the Canary Islands, offers something for every type of underground explorer. Many of these caves also preserve invaluable Paleolithic art, providing a direct connection to Europe's earliest inhabitants.