The Valporquero Caves are a large karst system excavated in the limestone of the Leonese mountains, formed approximately one million years ago by the action of the water of the Valporquero stream. The visitable set is organized in seven rooms and gathers lava flows, stalactites, stalagmites and columns, with a subway development that has given fame to the enclave as one of the best known tourist caves in Castilla y León. The visit allows you to tour a subway landscape of great volume, with rooms that gain in height and amplitude as the itinerary progresses. The attraction is not only in the formations, but also in the contrast between the interior world of the cave and the exterior high mountain environment, next to the Vegacervera gorges, a setting much appreciated by hikers and geology enthusiasts. It is a resource managed by the Diputación de León and has been open to the public since 1966. Its interest appears both in the official tourist information and in reference guides about the Leonese mountains. The best time to visit it is usually between spring and autumn, when the opening is wider and access by road is more comfortable; in winter it can remain closed for part of the season. It is advisable to book in advance if you want to make the long visit or special modalities, and to wear light warm clothes even in summer, because the temperature inside is low and constant.
