Cueva de Valporquero
A large cave carved by the Torio River, with seven vast chambers and an underground river; the Vegacervera Gorge lies nearby
Valporquero Cave lies about 45 km north of León at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains. It was formed over time by the Torio River dissolving the limestone. The standard route is about 1.6 km long and passes through seven large chambers, where stalactites, stalagmites and coloured rock walls take on striking shapes under the lights. An adventure route wades through the underground river. The cave stays around 7°C year-round, so bring a jacket. Standard-route admission is about €9, and the cave is closed in January and February. Along the way, limestone cliffs of the Vegacervera Gorge line the road, and you can stop the car and walk among them.
Opening hours
~10:00–18:00 (varies by season)
Nearby sights
- MUSAC
- Walls of León
- Convent of San Marcos
- Basilica of San Isidoro & Royal Pantheon
- León Cathedral
- Casa Botines
- Museum of León
- Plaza Mayor