Tour packages in Soplao Cave

The El Soplao Cave is located between the Cantabrian municipalities of Herrerías, Valdáliga, and Rionansa, high in the Sierra de Arnero mountain range, at an altitude of 540 meters and 83 km from Santander. It offers magnificent views of the Sierra de Peña Sagra, the Picos de Europa mountains, the Nansa River valley, and the Cantabrian Sea.

“ El Soplao ” is a mining term referring to the air that is felt when descending from a gallery to one with less oxygen. The El Soplao Cave was discovered by miners who, around 1908, drilled the gallery as part of the exploitation of the La Florida mines. It is considered one of the great wonders of geology, as it holds a true speleological paradise: helictites, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, columns, cave pearls, dogtooth spar… A veritable interplay of shadows, light, and colors.

In addition to its geological value, the El Soplao Cave and its surroundings boast an exceptional heritage of industrial mining archaeology, with over 20 km of galleries. Mining activity has also left its mark on the surface, with headframes, calcination kilns, washing plants, and workshops.

A replica mining train will take you through the La Isidra mine tunnel to the cave. Once there, a walking tour will take you through the galleries and chambers of La Gorda, Los Fantasmas, Mirador de Lacuerre, Centinelas, and Ópera. The tour lasts approximately one hour and combines geological and mining experiences, with galleries and industrial mining archaeology.

The path along most of the route is made of non-slip cement, although there are some wet areas (dripping water). The route is equipped with railings and handrails, and the lighting recreates the original conditions of the surrounding environment (cave/mine), so there are some dimly lit areas. Comfortable shoes (without heels) and warm clothing are recommended (the temperature inside is around 12 to 14 degrees Celsius, with a relative humidity of around 90%).

The El Soplao Cave offers all the necessary infrastructure for visitors. The visitor reception building combines traditional mining construction methods with cutting-edge techniques and houses amenities such as an arrival hall, ticket offices, a souvenir shop, a cafeteria and self-service area, a terrace, a viewing tower, restrooms, and more.

The building also has a workroom that can be used for various events, such as congresses, conferences, courses, etc. Outside, there is a large parking area with a separate area for buses, recreational areas, and an exhibition of contemporary sculpture.

Furthermore, El Soplao Cave is adapted for people with reduced mobility (100% of the route is wheelchair accessible). Access to the last section of El Soplao Cave requires the use of a platform lift. Children up to 12 years old and wheelchair users must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers are not permitted, but baby carriers are available at the ticket office.

Apartamentos 3000 does not guarantee availability for this activity. Make your pre-booking now, and as soon as we receive confirmation from the organizer that spaces are available, you will receive a final booking confirmation by email within 72 hours.

January, February, March, October, November and December   ( Closed Mondays )
From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

April, May and June ( Closed Mondays ) .
From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

July .
From 10:00 to 19:00

August
From 10:00 to 21:00

September
From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The times are approximate and may be subject to change depending on the activity and any unforeseen circumstances. Currently, the train to the cave is out of service, although visits will proceed as normal, as the train only affects the entrance to the cave, approximately 300 meters away.

The cave is closed on January 1st, December 24th, 25th, and 31st. It is closed for maintenance from January 7th to 21st.

You can add your tickets to visit El Soplao Cave to your accommodation booking. Children aged 0-3 years enter free.