Cantabria may be a small community, but it has so many corners worth knowing that it is difficult to recommend just a few. However, El Soplao is, without a doubt, one of those essential visits reallywhich you cannot expect to be told about, because it is simply impossible to describe the spectacular nature that the cave hides.
Opened to the public only in 2005, in a short time it has more than earned the honor of being one of the points of most popular tourist attraction of Cantabria, a milestone in a region that attracts more for its beaches, fishing villages, mountain villages, valleys and forests. But underground there is also much to discover.
The natural cavity was discovered by chance during the mining work that was carried out in the area for about 120 years in the heart of the Arnero mountain range, at about 540 m altitude. The mining industry It has left its indelible mark on the landscape and traditions of the people in the area, being its economic engine until the blenda and galena extraction work was completed in 1978. Today, his legacy is maintained as historical and cultural heritage, in harmony with the geological heritage of the nature.
The miners found the gallery later called La Isidra in 1908, producing a well-known phenomenon in mining that would give its name to the entire cave: a blow alludes to the air stream peculiar that is perceived when entering a gallery from another that has less oxygen. That first gallery would begin to be used in mining work, even as rubble storage, until decades later would be valued its geological wealth.
They are already more than 20 km of galleries those discovered in recovery and study work that continues to this day. Although the tourist visit, accessible to people of all ages, only covers a small part, it is already overwhelming due to the spectacular nature and dimensions of the immense cavity.
Both the size of the cave itself and its galleries, as well as the incredible variety and richness of stalactites, stalagmites and, particularly, the capricious eccentric formations, they are pure delight that is difficult to describe. A sensory experience accentuated with big show of lights and sounds that accompanies the visit, perfectly organized and well commented with expert guides who do not hesitate to answer all kinds of doubts and questions that arise during the tour.
In short, visiting El Soplao is always a recommendation that does not fail for any traveler, to which, yes, we recommend going with the ticket purchased in advance, as the group shift access. The visitor center offers magnificent views on a good day, there is a cafeteria and a shop, and from there the small mining train leaves that takes us inside the cave.
Once there, it’s worth it too. visit the entire area and enjoy the natural and mining landscape, in one of the most beautiful valleys in Cantabria. Which actually is everyone.
The best of Cantabria 1: Experiences and authentic places (Guides The best of the Lonely Planet Region)
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Photos | El Soplao Cave
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