We tend to believe that planet Earth no longer holds any secrets, that humankind has discovered everything there was to discover, and that all that remains is to look into space or to the ocean floor. Technology has led us to believe that the 21st century is unlike any that came before it and that expeditions in search of unknown lands are now the stuff of fantasy books. But there are places that restore our sense of humility and remind us that there are many things we still don’t know. Today we’re introducing you to one of those unique places, with unexplored areas and just 45 minutes from Valencia.
Nestled among the mountains of the Sierra de Espadán, the Vall d’Uixò hides a secret nearly 3 kilometers long beneath the ground: Les Coves de Sant Josep is a system of natural caves containing Europe’s longest navigable underground river.
A rock cavity that began forming some 250 million years ago and remains an enigma to this day— where the river begins and where the cave ends. Both the cavern and the lagoon were formed through a process called karstification, which involves the filtration of rainwater that, little by little, erodes the rocks and shapes the interior.
A destination that offers one of the most fun and unique experiences in the entire Valencian Community: starting at 18 euros, you can navigate much of the river and explore another section on foot. You’ll cover the first stretch aboard a boat with a guide who will explain the history, details, and interesting facts, while you admire the stalactites and the crystal-clear waters of the area.
A journey into the Earth’s interior that takes you through different areas such as the Hall of Bats and the Blue Lake, among others. What’s more, it’s an ideal place to visit in any season, as it maintains a constant temperature of about 20 degrees throughout the year, thanks to the microclimate generated inside.
Historical Remains: Cave Paintings and an Iberian Archaeological Site
Our ancestors could not have ignored an environment so beautiful and, above all, so well protected by nature. It was the perfect spot to establish a settlement, and it was put to use at various times throughout history.
At the cave’s entrance, you can see cave paintings dating back more than 17,000 years. Although the passage of time has faded the paint, their value remains immense, and they are recognized as part of the Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Right above the caves lies the Iberian-Roman Settlement of Sant Josep, an archaeological site that has survived various periods in the history of the Iberian Peninsula: from its origins in the Bronze Age to its strategic importance during the Al-Andalus period, including its Roman remains. This archaeological site has been designated a Site of Cultural Interest and can be visited with a guide for just 5 euros.
Plus, if you’re looking to make the most of your getaway, you have plenty of options: go hiking in the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park, visit the Roman ruins of L’Alcúdia ( just 5 minutes away), or explore the famous Sagunto Castle (less than 20 minutes away). You can also enjoy a few days at the beach on the Costa del Azahar, with the beaches of Xilxes or Moncofar just 10 minutes away.
Visit Les Coves de Sant Josep: Activities, Hours, and Prices
Currently, Les Coves de Sant Josep offers a wide range of activities depending on the type of visit you’d like to take. Hours vary by activity and time of year, but for standard visits, they’re usually from 9:20 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The basic tour, which includes a boat ride and a walking tour, costs 18 euros for adults and 12 euros for children. Special rates are available for children under 2, students, seniors over 65, and people with disabilities.
If you’d prefer to take the tour by kayak, the price is 60 euros per person, and it’s only for those ages 8 and up. Advance reservations are required, as groups are small and the schedule depends on availability and the time of year. There’s also an “Origen” experience for those who want to explore secret passages and hidden areas not included in the standard tour. The price for this premium experience is 100 euros, and the tour lasts about 3 hours.
Finally, you can also attend the “Singin’ in the Cave” musical performances, although their schedule is much more sporadic and the price depends on the guest artist.
