El Soplao is one of the most remarkable caves in Europe, and one of the best-value visits in the whole of Cantabria for what it gives you. Its name comes from the gust of air the miners felt as they opened new galleries — the cave was found by chance during the zinc and lead mining in the Sierra del Escudo.
What makes it singular is the number and quality of its helictites: aragonite formations that grow in impossible directions, defying gravity. The standard visit covers 1.5 km in an hour, suitable for everyone, with carefully judged lighting. For the more adventurous there is also an “adventure” route, with helmet and head torch.
Forty-five minutes from Alles on the A-8. Online booking is essential in high season.
