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Looking for an amazing day trip from Alicante? The Canelobre Caves might just be the perfect option if you fancy something different from the usual beach days and city walks.
I’ve visited these incredible caves several times now, and they never fail to impress! Let me share everything you need to know about this natural wonder that’s hidden just a short drive from Alicante.
What are the Canelobre Caves?
The Canelobre Caves (Cuevas del Canelobre) are a series of spectacular karstic caves located in Busot, in the province of Alicante. They’re among the most impressive natural formations in the Costa Blanca region.
What makes these caves truly special is their age – they date back to the Upper Jurassic period, making them around 145 million years old! The limestone caves have been shaped over thousands of years by water and rock working together to create amazing formations.
The Canelobre Caves are truly one of the most impressive natural wonders near Alicante. Walking through these massive chambers and seeing the incredible formations that have taken millions of years to create is a humbling experience.
They’re suitable for visitors of all ages and offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of our planet!
Getting to the caves from Alicante
The caves are located about 24 kilometres from Alicante city, making them perfect for a half-day trip. If you’re driving, it should take you about 30 minutes via the CV-773 and CV-776 roads.
Don’t have a car? No worries! There are several tour options available from Alicante that include transport to and from the caves.
What you’ll see inside the caves
As you enter through the 45-metre long tunnel, you’ll find yourself in an enormous underground chamber covering an impressive 80,000 square metres. Here’s what awaits you:
- One of the highest vaults in Spain, reaching up to 70 metres in some parts
- Stunning stalactites hanging from the ceiling like natural chandeliers
- Impressive stalagmites rising from the ground
- Columns where stalactites and stalagmites have met over thousands of years
- Flowstone formations that look like frozen waterfalls
The centrepiece is the famous “Canelobre” itself – a massive stalagmite in the centre of the main room that’s over 100,000 years old! The name comes from its resemblance to a candelabra.
The main chamber has such incredible acoustics that it’s sometimes used for concerts and musical performances. The sound quality is absolutely remarkable!
Visiting tips
Based on my visits, here are my top tips for getting the most out of your trip:
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip – the cave floor can be a bit slippery in places
- Bring a light jacket even in summer – the temperature inside stays around 18°C year-round
- Don’t forget your camera, but know that flash photography might be restricted in some areas
- Plan for about 1-2 hours for the full experience, including the guided tour
- The pathways are well-maintained and lit, making it suitable for most visitors
Guided tours
The caves can only be visited as part of a guided tour, which is actually a good thing as the guides are fantastic and full of interesting information. Tours run regularly throughout the day and last approximately 45 minutes.
During your tour, the guide will point out the most interesting formations and share fascinating facts about the caves’ geology and history. Did you know that the caves were used as an aircraft repair workshop during the Spanish Civil War?
Best time to visit
The caves are open year-round and maintain a constant temperature, making them a brilliant option for both summer and winter visits. In summer, they offer a cool break from the heat, while in winter, they’re warmer than the outside temperature!
If you want to avoid crowds, I’d suggest visiting on weekdays or during the off-peak tourism seasons (October-November or February-May).
Cave concerts and special events
Thanks to the amazing acoustics, the main chamber is sometimes used for classical music concerts. If you’re lucky enough to be in the area when one is scheduled, I’d highly recommend booking tickets – hearing music in this natural cathedral is an unforgettable experience!
Check the official website or contact them directly for information about upcoming events.
Practical information
Address:
Carretera Cuevas del Canelobre, CV-776
Busot
03111
Contact details:
Phone: +34 615 17 14 85
Email: cuevascanelobre@ebusot.com
Website: Cuevas del Canelobre Official Website
Opening hours:
These can vary by season, so it’s best to check the official website before your visit.
Admission fees:
Adult tickets are reasonably priced, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups. Again, check the website for current prices.
Combining with other nearby attractions
If you’re making the trip to Busot for the caves, why not make a full day of it? The charming village of Busot itself is worth a wander, with its narrow streets and traditional Spanish atmosphere.
The area around Busot also offers some lovely hiking trails with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.
