Top 11 Caves around Levico Terme

The Caves of Castello Tesino are the only ones in the Trentino region specifically equipped for tourist visits. They offer guided tours through 400 meters of fascinating karstic formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and traces of the extinct cave bear. The tours last about 1 hour and 30 minutes inside the cave, with a total activity duration of 3-3.5 hours.

The region is rich in diverse karstic formations. In tourist-accessible caves like the Caves of Castello Tesino, you'll find intricate stalactites and stalagmites, rock arabesques, and underground galleries. Other notable features in the area include impressive sinkholes and chasms, such as the Siesòn Cave (or Sciasòn Chasm) and the Stonhaus Sinkhole, which are natural monuments formed by the collapse of cave roofs or deep karst wells.

Yes, the Valsugana and Lagorai region offers several significant caves primarily suited for experienced speleologists. These include the **Cave of Bigonda** (the largest in Trentino with over 27 kilometers of tunnels), the **Calgeron Cave** (known for its large horizontal galleries and impressive concretions), and the **Cave of Costalta**. Access to these caves is often restricted and requires accompaniment by specialized groups or prior booking due to their challenging nature.

Caves generally maintain a constant temperature year-round (e.g., 8 degrees Celsius in the Caves of Castello Tesino), making them a good option in various seasons. However, for the Gorgo Santo, visiting after periods of rain or snowmelt is recommended to see its impressive waterfall in full flow. For the Cave of Costalta, visits are only possible during the summer.

Given the constant cool temperatures inside caves, even in summer, it's advisable to wear warm layers. For the Caves of Castello Tesino, trekking boots and a waterproof jacket are specifically recommended due to the temperature of about 8 degrees Celsius and high humidity. For more challenging speleological caves, specialized gear is essential.

Yes, some caves in the region hold significant historical and archaeological value. The Caves of Castello Tesino preserve rare and well-defined traces attributed to *Ursus spelaeus*, the extinct cave bear. Additionally, the Ernesto Cave (though generally closed to the public) contains archaeological remains from the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, including evidence of prehistoric hunters.

The Caves of Castello Tesino are well-suited for families and general visitors, as they are specifically equipped for tourist visits. Guided tours provide an informative and safe experience for exploring the underground world. Remember to dress children in warm layers and appropriate footwear, as the cave maintains a cool temperature.

The Caves of Castello Tesino are accessible via a scenic 40-minute walk to the entrance from the parking area. For detailed directions and transport options, it's best to consult local tourism information or the official website: visitvalsugana.it.

The area around Levico Terme offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, mountain hikes, and gravel biking routes. For instance, you can find routes for gravel biking, running, and mountain hikes, including trails that pass by historical sites or offer scenic viewpoints.

The Siesòn Cave (or Sciasòn Chasm) is an impressive sinkhole of karst origin, descending to an overall depth of 96 meters. Its dark mouth is dramatically illuminated by a natural skylight, and ice remains at the bottom throughout the year, creating a unique and striking natural spectacle. Visitors describe it as spectacular and advise caution due to ice, especially in colder months.

The Stonhaus Sinkhole, meaning 'House of Stone' in the Cimbrian language, is a spectacular chasm formed by the collapse of a huge karst cave roof. It features an opening about 20 meters in diameter and a depth of at least 30 meters, with a natural stone arch and fir trees growing from the bottom. Local legend says it's the home of an ogre who takes naughty children there until they repent.

The Gorgo Santo is a unique spring where rainwater and snowmelt from the Luserna Plateau flow through underground passages. Under normal conditions, water emerges from the lower cave. However, during heavy rain or snow, the system acts as a safety valve, with water also being released from the upper Gorgo Santo cave, creating a powerful, foaming waterfall. The name 'Santo' (holy) comes from a legend of Pope Boniface IV blessing the whirlpool or Saint George defeating a dragon there.