The province of León hides beneath its surface a magical world of stalactites, stalagmites, underground rivers, and unique formations that tell stories spanning thousands—even millions—of years. Exploring these caves is an experience that blends geology, adventure, and culture, attracting families as well as nature lovers and caving enthusiasts.
In this guide you’ll find the main show caves in León, what to see in each one, when to go, what to wear, and practical tips to make the most of your visit.
1. Valporquero Caves
Located in the heart of the Leonese mountains, in the municipality of Vegacervera and just 47 km from the city of León, the Valporquero Caves are the province’s most famous underground jewel. Opened to visitors in 1966, they offer a developed route of over one kilometre through seven illuminated chambers that put on a spectacle of shapes and colours: La Gran Rotonda, Las Pequeñas Maravillas, La Gran Vía, among others.
The cave formed as water worked on the limestone for over a million years, creating whimsical formations that can now be admired on a safe, accessible tour.
What makes Valporquero truly unique is that, in addition to the standard tourist visit, it offers the chance to do speleocanyoning (cave canyoning). This activity combines caving and canyoning along the underground river that runs through the cave—abseiling down waterfalls, swimming through interior pools, and exploring pristine galleries. It’s an experience suitable only for people in good physical condition and must be done with qualified guides.
Recommendations:
- Tourist visit: comfortable footwear and a light jacket (inside temperature is around 7 °C year-round).
- Speleocanyoning: thermal layers, swimwear, towel, and full technical gear (provided on guided activities).
- With children: the tourist route is suitable from age 5. Speleocanyoning is for adults or 16+ with consent.
2. Llamazares Cave
In the Alto Bernesga Biosphere Reserve, Llamazares Cave is less well known but equally fascinating. Near the small village of Llamazares in the eastern Leonese mountains, it stands out for its impressive eccentric stalactites and natural columns that look like sculptures.
The route is shorter than in Valporquero, but its charm lies in the intimate atmosphere: soft lighting, small visitor groups, and a guide who shares geological details and historical curiosities.
There is evidence the cave was used by prehistoric humans as a temporary shelter, adding archaeological value.
Recommendations:
- Wear non-slip footwear, as the floor can be damp.
- Light warm clothing (average temperature 8 °C).
- Suitable for children, but not for strollers/pushchairs or people with reduced mobility due to steps and narrow passages.
3. Other caves and shafts of interest in León
While Valporquero and Llamazares are the most visitor-friendly, the province boasts other cavities of great value for caving and adventure tourism:
- Valdeajo Cave (Sabero area): a paradise for pure caving; not adapted for tourist visits but accessible with guides.
- Las Lendreras Cave: in the eastern mountains, famous for its narrow galleries and spectacular calcite crystal formations.
- Sima de Peredilla (Peredilla Shaft): for experienced cavers, with vertical pits and large chambers.
General tips for visiting caves in León
- Book in advance: especially in peak times (Holy Week/Easter, summer, and weekends).
- Clothing & footwear: always comfortable, closed, and non-slip.
- Constant temperature: bring a light jacket even in summer.
- Follow the rules: don’t touch formations, don’t leave rubbish, and always follow your guide’s instructions.
- Responsible photography: no flash in signed areas to protect underground fauna.
Are they suitable for children?
- Valporquero (tourist route): yes, from age 5.
- Llamazares: yes, though extra care is needed in tighter sections.
- Speleocanyoning & advanced caving: no; for adults or experienced teens only.
Staying near the caves
If you want to make the most of your underground getaway, we recommend staying in the city of León, where you’ll find a wide range of restaurants, leisure options, and connections to explore the rest of the province. At León Apartamentos we offer comfortable, central, well-equipped accommodation—ideal for combining cultural tourism with nature.
