Background

Grotta di Bossea: A Subterranean Wonderland

Discover a breathtaking subterranean world in Frabosa Soprana, featuring stunning geological formations and unique cave fauna.

4.7

Explore the Grotta di Bossea, one of Italy's most stunning cave systems, located in Frabosa Soprana. Discover a world of stalactites, stalagmites, underground lakes, and a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century. Guided tours reveal the cave's unique geological formations and diverse fauna, including the skeleton of a 40,000-year-old cave bear.

A brief summary to Cave of Bossea

  • Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Wear warm clothing and non-slip shoes due to the cave's constant 9°C temperature and high humidity.
  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as reservations are often required.
  • Consider the shorter tour option if you prefer a less strenuous experience.
  • Arrive early to allow time to explore the scenic surroundings of Val Corsaglia.
  • Small dogs are allowed inside the cave if they are held by the owner or in a carrier.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From Mondovì, take bus line 099 or 99 towards Frabosa Soprana. Get off at the 'Bivio Frabosa Lato Corsaglia' stop, which is a 1-minute walk (36 meters) from the cave entrance. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1-€3.

  • Car

    From the A6 Torino-Savona highway, exit at Mondovì or Vicoforte. Follow the signs for Frabosa Soprana and then for Grotta di Bossea. The cave is located on Localita' Bossea, 10. Parking is available near the entrance, but availability may be limited during peak season. Parking costs are approximately €2-€5 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Cave of Bossea

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cave of Bossea

The Grotta di Bossea, nestled in the Val Corsaglia near Frabosa Soprana, is a captivating natural wonder and one of Italy's most remarkable cave systems. This protected area, managed by the Marguareis Natural Park, offers visitors a mesmerizing journey through subterranean landscapes shaped over millennia. The cave's history is rich, with initial explorations dating back to 1850 when Domenico Mora led a group to Lake Ernestina. Officially opened to the public in 1874 by Senator Giovanni Garelli, Grotta di Bossea holds the distinction of being one of the first tourist caves in Italy. Since 1969, it has also served as a karst research laboratory, contributing to our understanding of cave ecosystems. The tour unveils a breathtaking display of geological artistry. Enormous chambers are adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring environment. Underground rivers, waterfalls, and lakes add to the enchantment, with the cave river named in honor of Domenico Mora. The largest chamber, Sala Garelli, stretches 150 meters in length, 60 meters in width, and reaches heights between 50 and 80 meters. Grotta di Bossea is also a haven for unique cave fauna. Over 50 species have been identified, including endemic creatures like the Plectogona Bosseae millipede and the Palpigrado Eukoenenia Strinati spider. Paleontological discoveries have further enriched the cave's significance, most notably the complete skeleton of a cave bear (Ursus spelaeus) that roamed the area between 80,000 and 12,000 years ago. Expert speleological guides lead visitors through the cave, offering insights into its formation, ecology, and history. The standard tour covers approximately 3 km with a 116-meter elevation change and lasts around 100 minutes. A shorter, less strenuous tour is also available. Regardless of the season, the cave maintains a constant temperature of 9°C and 100% humidity, so bringing a sweater or jacket and wearing non-slip shoes is recommended.

Popular Experiences near Cave of Bossea

Popular Hotels near Cave of Bossea

Select Currency