St. Michael's Cave: Gibraltar's Subterranean Wonder

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Explore the depths of Gibraltar's history and natural beauty in the stunning St. Michael's Cave, a subterranean wonderland.

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Saint Michael's Cave

St. Michael's Cave, a network of limestone caves in Gibraltar, is a top attraction blending natural beauty with historical significance. Adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, the cave has served as a shelter for early humans, a military hospital, and even a concert venue.

A brief summary to Saint Michael's Cave

St Michael Rd, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
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Monday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Friday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-6:45 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-6:45 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Saint Michael's Cave.

Visit during the less crowded hours, typically early morning or late afternoon, to enhance your experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the pathways within the cave can be uneven.
The cave maintains a cool temperature of 16-17 degrees Celsius year-round, so bring a light jacket.
Purchase a Nature Reserve ticket, which includes admission to St. Michael's Cave and other attractions.

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Lower St Michael's Cave

Lower St Michael's Cave: A Subterranean Cathedral

Getting There

Walking

From the Cable Car Top Station, St. Michael's Cave is a 15-20 minute downhill walk. Follow the signs, enjoying the views along the way. Note that a Nature Reserve ticket is required to access the area. Consider walking from the town center, though it's a steep climb of approximately 3 km. Allow about 32 minutes for the walk.
Public Transport

From the Gibraltar Airport or Port, take a Citibus Route 5 or 10 to the Market Place in the town center. From there, connect to a bus that takes you to the Cable Car base station, such as Route 2, 3, 4, 7, or 9. Alight at the Cable Car - Lower Station (City). Take the Cable Car to the Top Station. A round trip ticket costs approximately £16 for adults and £10 for children. From the top, it's a 15-20 minute downhill walk to the cave.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar, including at the airport and port. A taxi can take you directly to the entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, near St. Michael's Cave. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. A taxi from the airport to St Michael's Cave will cost approximately $30-$40.
Driving

If driving, follow signs to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Parking is available near the entrance, but it can be limited during peak season. Be aware that non-resident vehicles are restricted within the Nature Reserve, except for Blue Badge holders. Parking near the Cable Car bottom station is available. Parking for most of the day in La Linea, the Spanish town adjacent to Gibraltar, costs around €20.

Discover more about Saint Michael's Cave

St. Michael's Cave, nestled within the Rock of Gibraltar, is a captivating journey into the earth's depths. This natural limestone cave, located in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, has been sculpted over millennia by rainwater seeping through the rock. The result is a stunning display of stalactites, stalagmites, and vast chambers that evoke a sense of wonder.Historically, St. Michael's Cave has been shrouded in mystery and legend. Once believed to be bottomless, it fueled tales of a subterranean passage connecting Gibraltar to Africa. The Ancient Greeks considered it one of the Gates of Hades, an entrance to the underworld. The cave's name is derived from a similar grotto in Monte Gargano, Italy, where the Archangel Michael is said to have appeared.Throughout the centuries, the cave has served various purposes. Archaeological discoveries suggest that Neanderthals and early humans used it as a shelter. During World War II, it was prepared as an emergency military hospital, though it was never used as such. Today, the 'Cathedral Cave,' the largest chamber, serves as an auditorium with seating for 400, hosting concerts, ballets, and other events.Enhancing the cave's allure is 'The Awakening,' a mesmerizing light and sound show that illuminates the geological wonders and weaves in tales of Gibraltar's rich history. The cave is open daily, and pathways are designed for easy navigation, making it accessible to visitors of all ages.