The main vault of the cave is often compared to a cathedral due to its massive scale and vertical height.
During the Spanish Civil War, the cave was used by the Republican army as a secure underground hangar and workshop for repairing aircraft.
The name 'Canelobre' is derived from the Valencian word for candelabra, referring to a large, central stalagmite formation.
The cave temperature remains consistently cool, typically hovering around 17-18 degrees Celsius, regardless of exterior weather.
The karst landscape surrounding the caves is composed primarily of Jurassic-era limestone bedrock.
The Canelobre Caves are located in the Sierra del Cabezón de Oro mountain range near Busot, Alicante. The main chamber features one of the highest vaults in Spain, reaching approximately 70 meters in height. The cave system is formed of limestone and hosts an array of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Water infiltration has carved out distinct formations, including one resembling a candelabra, which gives the cave its name. The site remains a naturally temperature-controlled environment throughout the year. Visitors access the main cathedral-like cavern via a tunnel that leads into the mountainside. Acoustic conditions within the main vault are utilized for occasional musical performances due to natural reverb. The formation dates back to the Upper Jurassic period, approximately 145 million years ago.
From the upper viewing platform looking down into the main cavern to capture the scale of the vault.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the interior metal staircases and paths can be damp.
Bring a light jacket, as the ambient temperature inside the cave is significantly cooler than the Alicante sun.
Plan to arrive at the parking area well before the start of a guided tour to navigate the entrance path.
Do not attempt to walk off the marked paths or touch the stalactites, as oils from human skin stop the growth process.
Closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Touching the rock formations is strictly prohibited to preserve the mineral growth. Photography is permitted, but flash usage may be restricted during specific portions of the tour.
