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Grotta del Caudano: A Subterranean Wonder

Discover a world of stalactites and stalagmites in this stunning cave system near Frabosa Sottana, Province of Cuneo.

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Explore the Grotta del Caudano, a captivating cave system in Frabosa Sottana, Italy, discovered in 1898. Admire stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations shaped by underground streams over millennia. Guided tours reveal the cave's geological history and paleontological significance, including the remains of the prehistoric cave bear, Ursus Spelaeus.

A brief summary to Grotta del Caudano

Local tips

  • Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as tours have limited capacity.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the cave paths can be uneven, muddy and slippery.
  • Bring a light jacket or fleece, as the cave temperature remains a constant 9°C (48°F).
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the cave's geological history and unique formations.
  • Check the official website for updated opening hours and tour schedules, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the A6 Torino-Savona highway, exit at Mondovì and follow the signs for Villanova Mondovì and then Frabosa Sottana. In Frabosa Sottana, follow the local signs to Grotta del Caudano. The parking lot and ticket office are located on SP327, a 15-minute uphill walk to the cave entrance. Parking availability may be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Mondovì. From the Mondovì train station, take a Bus Company S.r.l. bus to Frabosa Sottana. Check local bus schedules in advance as they may be infrequent. From Frabosa Sottana, it's approximately a 1.5-kilometer walk to Grotta del Caudano. From the bus stop follow local signs to Grotta del Caudano. The ticket office is located on SP327, a 15-minute uphill walk to the cave entrance. Bus fare from Mondovi to Frabosa Sottana is approximately €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    From Mondovì, a taxi to Grotta del Caudano will cost approximately €30-€50 and take about 30 minutes. Taxis are available at the Mondovì train station. From the taxi drop-off point, the ticket office is located on SP327, a 15-minute uphill walk to the cave entrance.

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Discover more about Grotta del Caudano

The Grotta del Caudano, located in the Province of Cuneo, is a fascinating natural attraction that invites visitors to explore its mesmerizing subterranean world. Discovered in December 1898 during the construction of a reservoir for the Frabosa Sottana hydroelectric plant, the caves have been a source of mystery and curiosity since their opening. The caves feature a unique clay floor that gives the walls a yellow-red hue due to iron oxide. Inside, you'll find a variety of rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Some walls are white due to calcium carbonate deposits, with small quartz crystals adding a touch of sparkle. Formed by two underground streams, the cave system consists of a network of horizontal galleries across four levels. Tourists can explore the second and third levels, while the other two are reserved for experienced speleologists. As you walk through the caves, you'll see interesting rock formations with imaginative names like 'the waterfall' and 'the organ pipes'. The ceilings in some areas are covered in thin, needle-like stalactites, creating a formation known as the 'bed of nails'. The caves also have paleontological significance, with numerous bones of Ursus Spelaeus, the prehistoric cave bear, found here. Some of these bones are displayed in the ticket office. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 9°C (48°F), so it's advisable to dress warmly. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the cave's history, geology, and the diverse animal life within, including bats.

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